Find a pub quiz, watch a sporting match from a pub, or go to a pub that’s big on “pub sports” like darts or mini-golf (Swingers is my favorite).

Classic London Pubs to Visit

  1. The George Inn (Southwark)
    • One of the oldest pubs in London, dating back to the 17th century, with a beautiful courtyard and wooden beams. It was frequented by Charles Dickens.
    • Pair with: A pint of ale and a hearty pie.
  2. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)
    • A historic pub rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. Its maze-like rooms and snug corners exude old-world charm.
    • Pair with: Traditional fish and chips.
  3. The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead)
    • A literary favorite frequented by John Keats and Charles Dickens, with a countryside feel and a large beer garden.
    • Pair with: A Sunday roast and local cask ales.
  4. The Lamb and Flag (Covent Garden)
    • Known as the “Bucket of Blood” in the 18th century, this historic pub has a cozy atmosphere and is a favorite among theatergoers.
    • Pair with: A pint of Fuller’s London Pride.
  5. The Churchill Arms (Notting Hill)
    • Famous for its floral exterior and serving delicious Thai food alongside a great beer selection.
    • Pair with: A Thai curry and a refreshing lager.
  6. The Prospect of Whitby (Wapping)
    • London’s oldest riverside pub, offering stunning views of the Thames and a history dating back to 1520.
    • Pair with: A seafood platter and a classic gin and tonic.
  7. The Ten Bells (Spitalfields)
    • A historic pub with connections to the Jack the Ripper story, popular for its Victorian décor and lively atmosphere.
    • Pair with: A craft beer or cider.

Pub Activities to Enjoy

  1. Trivia Night (Pub Quiz):
    • Many pubs host weekly quizzes, a quintessential British pastime. Check out The Crown Tavern (Clerkenwell), The Grafton (Kentish Town), White Hart, and Tiger of Camberwell.
  2. Live Music:
    • Enjoy live performances at pubs like The Dublin Castle (Camden) or The Half Moon (Putney), both known for their music heritage.
  3. Sunday Roast:
    • Savor a traditional Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding and gravy at pubs like The Harwood Arms (Fulham) or The Bull & Last (Highgate).
  4. Beer Tasting:
    • Visit pubs specializing in craft beers, such as The Euston Tap (Euston) or The Southampton Arms (Kentish Town).
  5. Historic Pub Crawls:
    • Explore the history of London through its pubs with guided crawls. Popular routes include:
      • The Fleet Street Crawl: Featuring Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and Punch Tavern.
      • The Riverside Crawl: Covering pubs along the Thames, like The Anchor (Bankside) and The Mayflower (Rotherhithe).

Tips for an Authentic Pub Experience

  • Order at the bar: Pubs don’t have table service. Go to the bar, order your drinks and food, and take them to your table.
  • Try local brews: Sample ales, bitters, or ciders brewed in London, such as those from Camden Town Brewery or Meantime Brewing.
  • Mind the hours: Many traditional pubs close earlier than bars, often around 11 PM.
  • Learn pub etiquette: It’s customary to take turns buying rounds of drinks if you’re with a group.
  • Ask for recommendations: Bartenders often know the best local brews or dishes to try.