6th February 2026
Ian Rogers
The Cockpit, which derives its name from the fact that cock fighting used to happen nearby on the Common, can be found near the Chislehurst War Memorial. It is easily spotted as there is an enclosed pavement area with a large umbrella with outdoor seating.
Stepping up through the front door, you will be hit with the smell of fresh flowers and immediately to the right is a florists counter. Indeed, the whole building used to be a florists, until the micropub’s owners established the Cockpit in late 2020.
At the same level to the left are seating and chairs as part of the micropub. Proceeding forward, there is a step up, where you will find further tables and seating to the left, whilst on the right is benched seating, which also requires a slight step up.
In front of you is the bar. You will notice that there are no handpumps as all beers are gravity dispensed from a room beyond, behind a glass panel.
Behind the bar is a chalk board displaying available beers – eight on at the time of visit, with a good mix of styles and strengths ranging from 3.8% to 6.8%, with prices varying accordingly.
To the right of the door leading to the toilets is another chalkboard, listing a range of wines, together with serving sizes and prices.
Further to the right behind the benched seating is another chalkboard displaying Cider and Perry options, which were ten from four different suppliers, at the time of the visit. They also promote English Gins.
Mobile phone usage is frowned upon and may result in a fine for a transgression but it is a very friendly bar. Several local CAMRA awards have been awarded – Local Branch Pub of the Year 2023 – 2026 and Regional Pub of the Year 2024/5.
Important Information:
The Cockpit, 4 Royal Parade, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6NR
Web: thecockpitchislehurst.co.uk; Tel: 07534978913
Hours: Monday-Tuesday: 12.00-21.30; Wednesday-Saturday: 12.00-22.30;
Sunday: 14.00-21.30
Food: Cheese and charcuterie are available in addition to crisp-style bar snacks and nuts.
Train: Chislehurst Station (25 min walk) or Elmstead Woods Station (40 min walk).
Buses: 61 (Bromley North to Chislehurst), 160 (Catford Bridge to Sidcup)
161 (North Greenwich to Chislehurst), 162 (Beckenham Junction to Eltham)
269 (Bromley North to Bexleyheath), 273 (Lewisham to Petts Wood)
and SL3 (Bromley North to Thamesmead).