Pub in London NW1
Volunteer
245-247 Baker Street, London, NW1 6XEClosest station: Baker Street, about 3 min walk4.5out of 5 on Google, from 2,995 ratings
Details last checked January 2025. Things may have changed since.
About Volunteer
Light-filled pub with whitewashed panelling, wooden floor, British menu and pavement tables.
The pub takes its name from the Royal Marylebone Volunteers formed during the Napoleonic wars when invasion was threatened. Now a large single bar pub, the building dating from around 1815. Last refurbed in 2023 it has a modern, open-plan layout with mixed seating and tables; four handpumps generally offer three ales and a cider. The food menu includes Sunday roasts.
Adjacent to the very touristy 221B Baker Street but probably not for true Holmes aficionados. The pub can be very busy with a generally young crowd that can spill out onto the street. Prices reflect the tourist location.
Description from WhatPub, CAMRA’s pub guide, with a summary from Google Maps.
Features
- Dog Friendly
- Outdoor Seating: Shelves at front
- Sports TV
- Serves Food
- Serves Lunch
- Serves Dinner
- Vegetarian Options
- Real Ale
- Disabled Access
- WiFi
- Reservable
- Good for Groups
- Smoking
- Menu for Children
- Serves Coffee
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Accepts Debit Cards
- Accepts NFC
Opening times
- Monday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday
- 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
As listed in January 2025. Hours change, and bank holidays differ: check with the pub.
Good to know
- Operator
- Mitchells & Butlers
- Price
- 2 out of 4 (Google’s price level)
- Phone
- 020 7486 4091
Google rating and reviews
4.5out of 5 on Google, from 2,995 ratings
5 out of 5Gary Shawon Google, December 2024
This is the 3rd time our lunch club have visited The Volunteer and today was by far the busiest occasion. However, the high quality food came out quickly, the service was smooth and friendly and for a central London pub the prices aren’t too scary. 7 of us had 2 courses plus a couple of baked Camembert to share at the start. Sensible portion sizes plus a couple of V options. What’s not to like.
4 out of 5Daniel Hanssonon Google, December 2024
We needed a break from the throngs of tourists before hitting 221B Baker Street. This gem of a pub was just sitting there. Good food offers and a wide range of beer on tap. Very attentive staff made us feel welcome from the get go. A bit pricey, but normal for the area. Had the pie and my company had the steak sandwich.
5 out of 5binit shresthaon Google, November 2024
Quite a nice location, right by Sherlock Holmes’ the famous Baker Street 221B. I went in as it was buzzing and filled to the brim. Shannon was quite welcoming and very nice that she accommodated me with a table for one - yeah I was traveling alone. Authentic Brit pub food, drinks and vibe. All in all a good evening. I would love to go for a Sunday roast if time permits.
5 out of 5Molly McQuiggon Google, January 2025
Service with Matt was great, he made a nice drink recommendation when my original choice wasn’t available. This was one of the best fish and chips I have had…. Very crisp on the outside, perfectly done on the inside and not soggy in any way.
5 out of 5Jen Mehramon Google, December 2024
Lovely time at The Volunteer! Stopped in on a recommendation and so glad we did. Beautiful interior, great food and wonderful service from Sarah, Rob & Dani. These Yanks can’t wait to visit on our next trip over the pond!
Rating and reviews are from Google Maps, as they stood in January 2025. See the latest on Google Maps.