Business Details
Welcome to Imperial Arms Chislehurst's Premier Pub
Established in 1787, The Imperial Arms has been a cornerstone of Chislehurst's community for over two centuries. Undergoing a meticulous refurbishment by renowned interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, our historic pub now combines timeless charm with modern sophistication. Our offerings extend beyond exceptional real ales and an award-winning wine list to include globally inspired cuisine, from traditional Sunday roasts to Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean dishes.The Bistro, housed in a historic coach house, provides an intimate dining experience while our beautiful walled garden and function room cater to private events. With TripAdvisor acclaim for our warm hospitality and culinary excellence, we remain committed to delivering memorable experiences through quality ingredients, attentive service, and our unique connection to Napoleon III's Chislehurst exile.
Services
Pub Dining
Bistro Restaurant
Function Room Hire
Sunday Roasts
Garden Dining
Highlights and features
- Established since 1787 with historic charm and modern comforts
- Award-winning food including globally-inspired cuisine and Sunday roasts
- Unique function spaces for weddings and private events
- Extensive selection of real ales and carefully-curated wines
- TripAdvisor acclaim for exceptional service and hospitality
What people say
Award winning food
Best roast ever
Friendly service
Cosy and welcoming
Best pub in Chislehurst
Services
Pub Dining
Our traditional pub dining experience offers award-winning cuisine in a historic setting. The menu features classic British dishes alongside international flavors, with daily specials including perfectly roasted meats and handmade sauces. With separate dining areas and bar spaces, guests enjoy quality food in either a lively or more refined atmosphere while experiencing our connection to Napoleon III's Chislehurst exile history.
Sunday Roasts
Renowned for our legendary Sunday roasts, we serve succulent meats with all the traditional trimmings. Our menu includes lamb, chicken, pork belly, and vegan options prepared fresh daily. Each roast features handmade gravy and house-made horseradish, with seating available in the pub, bistro, or garden areas. Reservations are recommended for these popular weekly meals served from 12pm.
Function Room
The Bistro function room accommodates up to 35 guests for buffet-style events or 22 for formal dining. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, and corporate functions, it features its own bar and connects to our walled garden. Available for exclusive hire throughout the year, the space combines historic charm with modern amenities while maintaining its unique 1820s Napoleon III-inspired decor.
Real Ales
We offer perfectly-kept real ales including Harveys Best and monthly guest ales on tap. Additional options feature Birra Moretti, Madri, Peroni, and award-winning Guinness. Our selection caters to both traditional ale drinkers and those seeking contemporary craft brews, with knowledgeable staff providing recommendations that complement our diverse menu offerings.
Walled Garden
Our secluded walled garden provides six dining tables behind the pub, offering al fresco dining with privacy and charm. The garden connects to the Bistro and hosts special events, while external seating features four wooden benches at the front. Ideal for warm weather enjoyment, this space preserves the historic character while providing comfortable outdoor hospitality.
Questions
What are your Sunday roast timings?
Sunday roasts are served from 12:00pm until 6:00pm in the pub, bistro, and garden areas.
Can I book the Bistro for a private function?
Yes, our Bistro function room accommodates up to 35 guests for buffet-style events or 22 for formal dining.
Do you offer vegetarian/vegan options?
All our menus include vegetarian options with dedicated vegan choices available in both pub and bistro menus.
Are well-behaved dogs permitted on premises?
Yes, we welcome well-behaved dogs in our pub areas and external seating spaces.
What parking facilities are available?
While we don't have private parking, Chislehurst offers public car parks including one opposite the entrance.
Do you host live music events?
We regularly feature live music evenings and wine tastings in our Bistro function room.
Videos
Reviews (4)
John Hughes
Jan 21, 2022
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Great service, great food. Finally a pub thats actually making its own food rather than buying it all in from Brakes Bros and reheating it. Staff were friendly, helpful and knew the menus well. Will be back.
Cat Hartland
Jan 06, 2022
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The Imperial was our favourite pub outside of London and we would regularly make the trip from Camberwell to eat, especially their Sunday Roast. This Bank Holiday Monday after the New Year we decided to pre-book and go here for the last meal of the holidays and was excited to visit again. The service was very slow and chaotic due to staff shortages which is understandable at the moment. We were told that they were up against it and that the manager had to pop to Bookers - which concerned us a bit. In total we waited nearly 2 hours for food with poor communication about what was available and the
Zoe Humphreys
Jan 05, 2022
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Accidentally did a dine & dash following great service & great food on a very busy night. Called back to apologise & pay, was thanked for our honesty! Great friendly atmosphere. As one of my friends would say (it's her local) it's like Cheers. Looking forward to future visits as there was plenty on the menu for this fussy veggie who hates fungus
David Crowe
Dec 17, 2021
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Had a lunch today with our two daughters. Great service, wonderful food including one vegetarian and one vegan option. Totally recommended and a relaxing experience. Thank you. Will certainly revisit and soon!!
