Guide author
James Whitmore
London-based travel and culture writer. Previously a cartographer for a walking tour company, now writes about cities with a map in one hand and a pint in the other. Covers the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, and English-speaking cities.
Overview
Walking down Farringdon Lane, the clinking of glasses and the scent of aged wood greet you at The Eagle, one of London's oldest pubs. This guide uncovers the city's rich pub history, stretching from Clerkenwell to Southwark. Here, you're not just having a pint; you're taking a sip of history, enjoying ales where literary legends once toasted. Expect to find taverns with connections to the stage and pubs where the architecture tells stories older than the city itself. Look beyond the typical tourist spots, and you'll discover cozy locals and secret cellar bars that offer more than just a drink. In these places, you’ll find stories most visitors never hear.
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20 pinned placesFeatured Places
Discover the best spots in this carefully curated guide. Each location has been personally visited and vetted to ensure an authentic and memorable experience.
The Holy Tavern
The Holy Tavern stands on a cobbled street in Clerkenwell, its door worn with the passing of centuries. Inside, the heavy oak beams and stone floors take you back to the 14th century. It’s dimly lit, with pewter mugs clinking as locals converse in low tones. The air is filled with the rich aroma of ale and roasted meats. A fireplace crackles, adding warmth to the timeworn atmosphere. The ale here is brewed locally, a taste that has stayed true over the years.
The Eagle
Stepping into The Eagle in Farringdon, you're immediately struck by the stunning stained glass and dark wood paneling. The buzz of conversation mixes with the clinking of glassware, creating a lively backdrop. Behind the bar, an impressive range of ales and lagers is on display. The pub's history is palpable, with stories of famous patrons lining the walls. It’s busy but cozy, inviting you to settle in with a pint and perhaps a hearty pie.
The Blackfriar
The Blackfriar, near Blackfriars Bridge, is a visual feast with its ornate, Grade II listed interior. Marble columns rise elegantly, while intricate mosaics and gilded murals tell tales of monastic life. The smell of freshly baked bread mingles with the heady scent of hops. It’s a place where the past is alive, every detail urging you to explore its rich history over a refreshing pint.
The Old Red Lion
The Old Red Lion in Angel is more than a pub; it's a connection to London’s theatre scene. The space is intimate, with red velvet curtains and vintage theatre posters lining the walls. Wooden tables are surrounded by plush chairs, inviting long stays. As you sip on classic ales, you’ll catch echoes of actors’ debates and playwrights’ musings, making it a haven for the creatively inclined.
Fox & Anchor
Fox & Anchor on Charterhouse Street offers a Victorian embrace with its warm wood tones and etched glass windows. The bar is lined with glistening taps, each promising a taste of traditional London ales. The smell of hearty pub fare fills the air, with plates of sausages and mash making their way to tables. It’s a space filled with laughter and friendly banter, as comforting as the pints they serve.
Crown & Anchor
Crown & Anchor in Covent Garden feels like a well-kept secret. You step off the bustling streets into a world of camaraderie and charm. The staff greets you like an old friend, and the smell of freshly pulled pints and hand-cut chips wafts through the air. It’s a place to relax and enjoy the company of locals, away from the typical tourist trail.
The Three Johns
The Three Johns in Islington is quirky and vibrant, with eclectic decor that catches your eye at every turn. The walls are adorned with vintage prints and mirrors, reflecting the lively atmosphere. The bar offers a great selection of craft beers, with bartenders eager to recommend their favorites. It’s a lively spot where conversations and laughter flow as freely as the drinks.
The Lamb & Flag, Covent Garden
The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden is steeped in history, its low ceilings and wooden beams telling tales of London’s past. The space is snug, with cozy nooks great for intimate gatherings. As you savor a well-poured ale, the friendly hum of conversation creates a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, with each visit adding a new chapter to its storied past.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
The Coach & Horses in Soho is a literary landmark, its walls echoing with the wit of past patrons. The pub is modest and welcoming, with a simple bar serving a curated selection of beers. The scent of traditional pub dishes drifts through the air. It’s a place of spirited debates and shared stories, where every pint comes with a side of history.
The Flask, Highgate
The Flask in Highgate offers a picturesque setting, its ivy-clad exterior inviting you inside. The interior is a mix of rustic charm and elegance, with a roaring fireplace at its heart. The pub offers a selection of ales that pair perfectly with the comforting smell of Sunday roasts. It’s a serene spot, where time seems to slow, inviting you to linger longer.
The Dog And Duck
The Dog And Duck in Soho is a Victorian treasure, its interior a kaleidoscope of stained glass and polished brass. The pub is compact, with a bustle that adds to its charm. The air is filled with the hoppy scent of beer, and the chatter is lively. It’s a spot where history and modernity coexist, offering a taste of the past in the heart of the city.
The Pride of Spitalfields
The Pride of Spitalfields is a true local pub, its relaxed atmosphere welcoming everyone who steps through the door. The space is simple, with wooden tables and a bar lined with craft beers. The air is filled with conversation and the occasional call for another round. It’s a place where regulars and newcomers share stories, making it feel like home.
The Victoria, Paddington
The Victoria in Paddington is a vibrant hub with an impressive beer garden. The interior is spacious, with high ceilings and a modern vibe. The bar offers a wide range of craft beers, with a menu of pub classics to match. The garden is a highlight, filled with greenery and the hum of happy patrons. It’s a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.
The Castle
The Castle in Tufnell Park is a blend of history and hospitality. The pub’s exterior is unassuming, but inside reveals a beautiful beer garden and an inviting bar. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with that of ales. It’s a community hub, where families and friends gather to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures.
The Lost Poet
The Lost Poet in Spitalfields is a spacious haven with a touch of whimsy. The decor is eclectic, with mismatched furniture and quirky art. The bar is stocked with a range of beers, complemented by a menu of British classics. The atmosphere is lively, with the air filled with laughter and the clink of glasses. It’s a place that encourages long, leisurely visits.
The Harp, Covent Garden
The Harp near Covent Garden is celebrated for its range of real ales. The pub is narrow and bustling, with a bar that’s always lively. The walls are lined with beer taps, each offering a different, tempting brew. The air is rich with the scent of hops, and conversations spill out onto the street. It’s a vibrant spot, great for ale enthusiasts.
The Bountiful Cow
The Bountiful Cow in Holborn specializes in craft beers and hearty British fare. The pub has a straightforward, no-frills interior, with wooden tables and a well-stocked bar. The aroma of grilled meats fills the air, drawing you in. It’s a place where the food is as memorable as the drink, offering satisfying meals in a relaxed setting.
Cittie of Yorke
Cittie of Yorke near Chancery Lane is a step back in time, with its 17th-century interior offering a glimpse of old London. The pub is grand, with high ceilings and wooden booths that invite quiet conversations. The bar offers an impressive selection of ales, and the atmosphere is refined yet welcoming. It’s a place that captures the essence of London’s pub heritage.
The Porterhouse
The Porterhouse in Covent Garden is a beer lover’s dream, with an extensive range of brews from around the world. The pub is spacious, with multiple floors and a lively buzz. The decor is industrial, with exposed brick and steel accents. The air is filled with the scent of hops and hearty pub fare. It’s a dynamic environment, great for those keen to explore new flavors.
Central Criminal Court
The Central Criminal Court pub, located near the Old Bailey, is as intriguing as its name suggests. The interior is cozy and inviting, with a bar that serves a great selection of ales. The atmosphere is relaxed, with patrons discussing everything from daily life to the latest court cases. It’s a spot where history and conversation blend seamlessly over a drink.
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