The Pelton Arms, Greenwich

The Pelton Arms

Greenwich isn't short on pubs, let's be honest, but frequently they can be teeming with tourists. To get away from the crowds, try The Pelton Arms along the river in the east of Greenwich - a gorgeous local pub serving comforting food at decent prices, with squidgy sofas, lovely fireplaces, a wide range of ales and wines and some great pub games.

Getting there is easy, just a stroll along the river past the Trafalgar Tavern and the Cutty Sark Tavern (also both good Greenwich pub options, just not as cosy). Or, if you're feeling lazy or the weather isn't conducive to a riverside wander, just get the train to Maze Hill instead.

Cosy rating: 8/10 - some lovely fireside chairs.
Secret rating: 7/10 - it's just that little bit further out of Greenwich and off the river that most people wouldn't know it's there, but it's popular among locals so worth booking for Sunday lunch. 
Best bits: Reasonably-priced home-cooked food, friendly service and warm atmosphere
Worst bits: I've heard it's not dog-friendly, but happy to be corrected. No river view unlike other aforementioned pubs, but that's why they're so much busier.