There were 3,535 pubs in London in 2023. Some are older than America. Some serve pints that taste like heaven. A few serve food that deserves a Michelin nod. Others? Let’s just say you’re there for the ghosts and the gossip.
But whether you’re a craft ale connoisseur, a Guinness loyalist, or simply in it for the Scotch egg, this city has a pub for everyone. The problem isn’t finding a pub, it’s finding the right one. One that serves the atmosphere just as well as it serves its beer.
We’ve put together this guide to help you cut through the noise and head straight to the best places. The historic, the quirky, the Michelin-starred, the riverside-perfect-for-sunset-pints kind of good stuff. These are the best pubs in London, not just by reputation, but by experience.
Key Takeaways
- London has over 3,500 pubs, but this guide narrows it down to the 15 most unforgettable experiences, from historic haunts to riverside hideaways.
- You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred menus to cozy Sunday roasts, lively comedy nights, and candlelit ghost stories.
- The best time to go pub-hopping depends on your preferences: quiet afternoons, buzzing Friday nights, or relaxed Sunday lunches.
- Signature dishes to try include venison Scotch eggs, Thai green curry, fish pie, and the iconic Sunday roast.
- Every pub featured is chosen not just for reputation, but for the atmosphere, history, and story it offers and includes Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, The Churchill Arms, or The Mayflower.
Top 15 Best Pubs in London
1. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street
Few places in London feel like stepping inside a history book. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is one of them. Dark wood beams, winding staircases, a low-ceilinged cellar bar. This is the Dickensian London of your imagination.
Rebuilt after the Great Fire in 1667, it’s one of the oldest pubs in the city. Frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Samuel Johnson.
It has a maze-like interior. No music. No TVs. Just the echo of clinking pint glasses and hushed laughter. It’s an old-school alehouse, plain and proud of it.
When it comes to food and the drinks, stick to the classics with Greene King-owned cask ales, sausage rolls, steak and an ale pie.
At Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese you’re not just having a pint, you’re sipping it in one of London’s oldest cellars. And you can find it at this address: 145 Fleet Street, EC4A 2BU. Cheers!
Credit: Victor Mena Aguilar
2. The Churchill Arms in Kensington
Possibly the most photographed pub in London and you’ll know why the second you see it. This place doesn’t do anything subtle.
It was built in 1750, but the pub’s Churchill-themed decor came later, thanks to a landlord who adored Winston. The result is a kitschy, chaotic, oddly charming museum-meets-pub mashup.
The pub is decked out in 100+ hanging baskets and award-winning flower boxes. Inside, you’ll discover hundreds of Churchill photos, union jacks, war memorabilia and unexpectedly, a Thai restaurant.
We recommend you order a pad thai and wash it down with a pint of Fuller’s London Pride. Where else could you eat Thai food in a WWII memorabilia room while surrounded by amazing flora?
Address: 119 Kensington Church St, W8 7LN
3. The Harwood Arms in Fulham
If you think pubs are just for beer and football, this one will definitely change your mind. This unassuming Fulham pub holds the rare distinction of being London’s only Michelin-starred pub. It opened in 2009, and received its star in 2014, keeping the status ever since.
Its rustic, cozy interior with exposed brick and wooden beams is very unpretentious, quiet, and refined, but still feels like a pub.
The specialty here is wild game with beautifully prepared dishes such as venison Scotch eggs, tender braised hare, and perfectly roasted loin of deer. This might be the best food in London you’ll try on your trip.
Address: Walham Grove, SW6 1QP
4. The Mayflower in Rotherhithe
You’d miss this gem if you didn’t know it was here. Overhanging the Thames, this pub is equal parts nautical nostalgia and riverside romance.
It was named after the ship that sailed to America, and the pub claims to stand on the original mooring site.
At The Mayflower you’ll experience warm lights, pewter mugs, and creaky wood floors. There’s also a hidden deck out back that feels like you’re floating above the water.
In this pub, we recommend choosing a seafood-focused menu as it’s their absolute speciality. Try the fish pie or crab linguine.
Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, SE16 4NF
5. The French House in Soho
No beer pints. No loud music. No nonsense. The French House does things differently, and it’s earned the right.
This pub is well known for its WWII connections and as a former haunt of a poet Dylan Thomas and a philosopher Francis Bacon.
Once you enter, imagine intimate tables, private conversations and slow pace. This place is great for a reflective afternoon or a place to wind down.
Upstairs, there is a French restaurant that serves rustic classics and has a small but impeccable wine list.
Address: 49 Dean St, W1D 5BG
6. Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden
Tucked away in a narrow alley, the Lamb & Flag is a historic gem in Covent Garden. Its unassuming exterior belies a rich past that dates back to the 17th century.
Originally known as The Coopers Arms in 1772, it was renamed the Lamb & Flag in 1833. The pub’s upstairs room once hosted bare-knuckle prize fights, earning it the nickname “The Bucket of Blood.”
The pub retains its historic charm with wooden beams and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for tradition in both the location and the food, this will be your best choice!
Address: 33 Rose Street, WC2E 9EB
7. The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead
Nestled on the edge of Hampstead Heath, The Spaniards Inn is steeped in history and literary connections. Dating back to 1585, it’s believed that highwayman Dick Turpin was born here. The pub has been frequented by literary figures like Byron, Keats, and Dickens.
With its low ceilings and wood-paneled rooms, the pub exudes old-world charm. This place is well known for its hearty Sunday roasts too.
Address: Spaniards Road, NW3 7JJ
8. The Grenadier in Belgravia
Hidden in a quiet mews, The Grenadier is renowned for its ghostly tales and military history. Established in 1818, it’s said to be haunted by the ghost of a soldier named Cedric, who was beaten to death for cheating at cards.
The pub’s intimate setting and historic decor make it a unique spot for a drink. The Grenadier offers classic British fare and a selection of beers and spirits. For a chilling experience in one of London’s most haunted pubs, choose this place on your next visit.
And if you’re looking for more haunted places in London, read more in our blog here.
Address: 18 Wilton Row, SW1X 7NR
9. The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping
Claiming to be London’s oldest riverside pub, The Prospect of Whitby offers stunning views and a storied past. Established in 1520, it has a history intertwined with pirates and smugglers.
The pub features original flagstone floors and a rare pewter-topped bar. It serves traditional British dishes and a variety of ales. If you’re chasing maritime history and long forgotten stories, pub will be your best best.
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, E1W 3SH
10. The Dove in Hammersmith
Perched on the banks of the Thames, The Dove is a quaint pub with a literary legacy. A public house has stood here since the 17th century. It’s said that James Thomson wrote “Rule, Britannia!” here. The pub boasts a cozy interior and a riverside terrace and offers a menu of classic British dishes and a selection of ales.
If you love to slow down by sipping a pint with a view of the river then head down to The Dove.
Address: 19 Upper Mall, W6 9TA
11. The Ten Bells in Spitalfields
Located in the heart of the East End, The Ten Bells is infamous for its connection to Jack the Ripper. The pub dates back to at least the mid-18th century and is associated with two of Jack the Ripper’s victims.
This location features original Victorian tiling and a vibrant atmosphere. It serves a range of beers and spirits, with occasional live music events.
Address: 84 Commercial Street, E1 6LY
12. The George Inn in Southwark
Owned by the National Trust, The George Inn is London’s last remaining galleried coaching inn.
Dating back to the medieval period, it was mentioned by Stow in 1598 and frequented by Charles Dickens. The pub retains its historic galleries and offers a spacious courtyard.
Address: 77 Borough High Street, SE1 1NH
13. The Blackfriar in Blackfriars
An architectural marvel, The Blackfriar stands out with its Art Nouveau design and monastic theme. Built in 1875 on the site of a former Dominican friary, it was remodeled in 1905.
The pub features ornate interiors with sculptures and mosaics depicting friars. As many others, it serves a variety of beers and classic British dishes.
Address: 174 Queen Victoria Street, EC4V 4EG
14. The Flask in Highgate
A creaky old coaching inn tucked just off Highgate High Street, The Flask is everything you want in a London pub: timeless, toasty, and allegedly haunted.
Built in 1663, The Flask claims connections to infamous highwayman Dick Turpin, who reportedly hid in the stables. There’s also talk of a ghostly barmaid who haunts the cellar.
In the interior, you can breathe in history through original low ceilings, antique mirrors, and worn wooden floors. You’ll find locals parked here for hours over pints, papers, and pies.
The Sunday roast is a winner on the menu but their game pies and seasonal specials are standouts too. They rotate a selection of cask ales and craft beers, you’ll always find a good pint of ESB on tap.
If you want a cozy pub that’s loaded with charm, quiet corners, and just a hint of Victorian ghost lore, this is it.
Address: 77 Highgate West Hill, London N6 6BU
15. The Camden Head in Camden
Camden is where London lets its hair down, and The Camden Head fits right in. It’s fun, loud, full of characters, and big on entertainment.
Dating back to 1787, this pub is one of Camden’s oldest, though you wouldn’t know it by the nightly stand-up comedy and live gigs happening upstairs.
It’s a little gritty, a little grungy, and all heart. It’s when a vintage pub meets a gig venue. Grab a beer, head upstairs, and laugh at one of the comedy shows, or cry at one of the moving live performances.
At The Camden Head, good pub grub is served all day, with burgers and wings in heavy rotation. This is your go-to if you want a proper British pub with cocktails, live comedy and zero pretension.
Address: 100 Camden High St, London NW1 0LU
When to Go Pub-Hopping in London
Timing can transform your pub experience. Weekday afternoons offer a quieter, more local atmosphere. It’s when regulars settle into their favorite seats and the pace slows. This silence is perfect for a reflective pint or two.
Fridays bring a different energy. By late afternoon, the city begins to buzz as office crowds spill into beer gardens. If you enjoy a bustling scene and lively chatter, Friday evenings will be ideal for you. Just be sure to book ahead if you’re planning to visit a popular spot.
For something slower and more traditional, Sundays are a London pub ritual. Arrive early to beat the roast rush and enjoy the timeless combination of comfort food, low golden light, and a second pint you maybe didn’t plan for. And if you’re choosing your season, spring and autumn are particularly charming. Crisp air, mellow sunshine, and a table by the river or in a blooming garden can elevate even the simplest ale.
What to Try While You’re There
London’s pubs aren’t just about pints. They’re also home to some of the most satisfying, soulful dishes you’ll find anywhere. Here’s a few that you simply must try out on your next visit.
Venison Scotch Egg at The Harwood Arms
A rich and rustic take on a classic. This version wraps a soft-boiled egg in seasoned venison sausage, breaded and fried until crisp, then served warm with a touch of pickled walnut or chutney for contrast. It’s indulgent, hearty, and perfectly balanced.
Thai Curry at The Churchill Arms
This iconic pub surprises with a vibrant Thai menu. Their green curry is fragrant with lemongrass, coconut milk, and galangal, served with tender chicken or tofu and a side of jasmine rice. It’s unexpected, flavorful, and genuinely delicious.
Fish Pie at The Mayflower
A classic British comfort dish. Expect a medley of fresh white fish, smoked haddock, and prawns in a creamy, herbed sauce, topped with buttery mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. Best enjoyed with a view of the Thames.
Sunday Roast at The Spaniards Inn
A London tradition done right. Choose from roasted meats like beef, lamb, or pork belly, served with crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, rich gravy, and a towering Yorkshire pudding. Ideal for slow Sundays and long conversations.
Half-Pint and Bar Snacks at The French House
While food takes a quieter role here, the simplicity of a cold half-pint of ale or cider paired with olives, a cheese plate, or charcuterie makes for a perfectly unhurried afternoon in Soho.
Conclusion
London’s pub scene is a beautiful blend of tradition, storytelling, and sensory delight. Each of the pubs in this guide has its own rhythm. Some echo with centuries of history, others hum with music and laughter late into the night. They are places to gather, to unwind, to discover flavors and friendships alike.
If you’re planning your visit to London, be sure to add a few of these stops to your list. And for an even deeper look at the city’s hidden corners and local favorites, consider joining one of our expertly guided experiences. Our London tours are designed to help you see, taste, and feel the capital through a more intimate, local lens.
Raise your glass to great taste, rich character, and unforgettable moments. Your perfect London pub, and your perfect London day, are waiting.
FAQ
What is the most iconic pub in London?
The most iconic pub in London is often considered The Churchill Arms in Kensington. Known for its floral-covered exterior, historic interior, and vibrant atmosphere, it combines classic British pub culture with quirky charm. It’s one of the city’s most photographed and instantly recognisable pubs among locals and tourists.
What is the most beautiful London pub?
Many consider The Princess Louise in Holborn the most beautiful, thanks to its Victorian design, etched glass partitions, ornate tiling, and original woodwork. Its preserved interior makes it a standout example of classic London pub architecture and a favourite for visitors seeking a visually stunning, traditional pub experience.
Which area is good for pubs London?
Soho is one of the best areas for pubs in London, offering a dense mix of historic taverns, modern craft pubs, and lively bars. Other popular pub districts include Covent Garden, Shoreditch, and Camden, each offering unique atmospheres and plenty of options for casual drinks or immersive nightlife.
What is the most popular pub name in London?
The most common and popular pub name in London is The Red Lion. It’s a historic British pub name found throughout the city, reflecting royal heraldry and long-standing traditions. Many Red Lion pubs are known for classic interiors, traditional ales, and a strong connection to Britain’s pub culture.
