The Fox and Firkin was declared “Best Bar or Pub” in the borough at the 14th annual Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards.

The Lewisham High Street pub, home to live underground music and a charming extended beer garden, was announced as the winner at a ceremony held at Catford’s Broadway Theatre on November 7.

The gala was attended by the Mayor, councillors, and industry representatives, including those from the South East London Chambers of Commerce.

The Awards are an annual celebration of exceptional local businesses and their invaluable contribution to the community.

Almost 6,000 residents had their say last month, casting votes across 14 categories.

Goldsmiths, University of London and Project Centre London sponsored the event, which was hosted by local author Lily Naadu Mensah.

Appreciated for its eclectic music scene, The Fox and Firkin is a magnet for a range of performances week after week.

This Is Local London: The Fox and Firkin

Jenny Rumbold, the director’s assistant at the pub, previously told the News Shopper: “We have bands from all over London and further – every weekend we are packed with music events.

“We are very varied in what we offer.

“The garden is always full of life and depending on the artist on a weekend the pub can turn into a bit of a nightclub - it brings in a real array of people.”

A key feature of The Fox and Firkin is a 1950s train carriage, aptly named the Firkin Express, nestled in its spacious beer garden.

The garden also hosts two local food vendors operating out of independent vans, serving a delectable array of pizzas and ribs to accompany an extensive drinks menu, including craft ales and cocktails.

The Pub's vintage Firkin Express carriage can be reserved for private parties and special events.

Jenny explained that the train was from Bristol and was brought over on a huge lorry.

She added: “It was difficult to get it in here let’s put it that way.”

Jenny went on to praise the staff at the Fox and Firkin: “The staff are really on it and the team has such a strong moral.

“Everyone that works here is really into their music which is a great boost at the weekend - they sometimes have a bit of a dance behind the bar.”

Cllr Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Businesses, Jobs and Skills, said: “It’s great to have an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic achievements, resilience and innovation of our independent businesses. They contribute so much to the fabric of life in Lewisham as well as to the economy.

“A huge well done to this year’s winners and runners-up who represent the best of the borough - they should all be very proud indeed.”