15 Best Pubs in London England

London’s pub culture is as rich and diverse as the city itself. From centuries-old taverns where literary giants once gathered to modern craft beer havens, the best pubs in London England offer something for every taste. As a London resident and dedicated pub enthusiast, I’ve spent years exploring these beloved institutions, from riverside retreats to hidden backstreet gems. This carefully curated list will guide you through 15 exceptional pubs that showcase the authentic character, history, and flavors that make London’s pub scene truly special.

London’s historic pubs aren’t just places to drink – they’re living museums where you can experience centuries of the city’s rich history while enjoying a perfect pint. These venerable establishments have witnessed everything from literary greatness to royal scandals.

Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666, this labyrinthine Fleet Street institution has been serving pints to Londoners for over 350 years. Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle were all regulars, drawn to its warren of low-ceilinged rooms and atmospheric cellars. The pub’s dark wooden interior, complete with sawdust-strewn floors and roaring fires in winter, transports you back through the centuries.

What to try: Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery Bitter and the traditional steak and kidney pudding – a recipe that hasn’t changed in generations.

Practical info: No music or TVs, making it perfect for conversation. The upstairs dining room offers a more formal experience, while the ground floor bar maintains the traditional pub atmosphere.

Perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath since 1585, The Spaniards Inn is steeped in folklore and literary connections. Dickens mentioned it in The Pickwick Papers, while Keats allegedly wrote “Ode to a Nightingale” in its garden. Legends of highwayman Dick Turpin hiding here abound, and some claim his ghost still haunts the premises.

What to try: The rotating selection of real ales and the Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding – especially after a brisk walk on the Heath.

Practical info: The garden is one of London’s finest pub spaces, with heated areas for cooler months. Dog-friendly throughout, making it perfect after walking your four-legged friend on the Heath.

London’s last remaining galleried coaching inn offers a genuine glimpse into medieval London. Owned by the National Trust, this 17th-century establishment near Borough Market features a cobblestone courtyard and galleried balconies where theater-goers once watched performances. Shakespeare likely drank here, given its proximity to the original Globe Theatre.

What to try: Fuller’s London Pride and the steak and ale pie, best enjoyed in the courtyard on sunny days.

Practical info: Gets extremely busy with tourists, especially in summer. Visit on weekday afternoons for a more relaxed experience.

There’s something magical about enjoying a pint with views of the Thames. These riverside pubs combine London’s maritime heritage with exceptional food and drink offerings.

Dating back to 1520, this former smugglers’ haunt claims to be London’s oldest riverside pub. With its weathered wooden floors, pewter-topped bar, and ship’s masts built into the structure, the maritime atmosphere is authentic. The rear terrace offers spectacular views of the Thames, with the original hangman’s noose still dangling as a reminder of its colorful past.

What to try: Greenwich Meantime Pale Ale and the fresh seafood platter – a nod to the pub’s riverside heritage.

Practical info: The narrow streets of Wapping make this a bit tricky to find, but that keeps the tourist crowds manageable. The upstairs dining room offers the best river views.

This 17th-century gem boasts one of London’s finest riverside terraces and once held the Guinness World Record for the smallest bar room in Britain. The tiny front bar contrasts with the spacious rear terrace overlooking a picturesque stretch of the Thames. Literary connections include Ernest Hemingway and Graham Greene, while legend claims “Rule Britannia” was composed here.

What to try: Fuller’s seasonal ales and the fish and chips – simple but perfectly executed.

Practical info: The riverside terrace is heated in winter but books up quickly in summer. Call ahead to reserve a spot for the best Thames views.

Some of London’s finest pubs are tucked away in unexpected places, rewarding those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Hidden down a tiny alleyway off Hatton Garden, this 1546 pub is so secretive that many Londoners don’t know it exists. Originally built for the servants of the Bishop of Ely, it technically stood in Cambridgeshire, not London. The pub’s cherry tree is said to have been danced around by Queen Elizabeth I.

What to try: The rotating selection of real ales from small British breweries and the traditional pork pie with piccalilli.

Practical info: Closed on weekends, making it a perfect weekday escape. Look for the small “Ye Olde Mitre” sign on Hatton Garden – the alley is easy to miss.

This atmospheric 16th-century pub sits at the spot where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America in 1620. With its dark wood interior, open fires, and overhanging balcony that extends over the Thames at high tide, it feels untouched by time. The pub maintains a visitors’ book for Americans who can trace their ancestry to the original Mayflower passengers.

What to try: The Scurvy Cure (a gin cocktail with lime) and the Mayflower Seafood Chowder – a nod to the pub’s New England connections.

Practical info: The small deck overlooking the Thames offers one of London’s most unique dining spots but books up quickly.

These establishments have elevated pub food from basic sustenance to culinary art, while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that makes a great pub.

London’s only Michelin-starred pub strikes the perfect balance between high-end dining and relaxed pub atmosphere. Co-owned by Brett Graham of The Ledbury, the Harwood Arms specializes in British game and wild food, with ingredients sourced from the royal estates. Despite the accolades, it maintains an unpretentious, welcoming vibe.

What to try: The venison Scotch egg has achieved cult status, while the full tasting menu offers a comprehensive experience of British seasonal cooking.

Practical info: Book well in advance, especially for Sunday lunch. The bar area accepts walk-ins for drinks and bar snacks.

This Victorian pub on Hackney Road was transformed into a dining destination when two Fergus Henderson protégés took over in 2015. They’ve preserved the traditional bar area downstairs while adding a stylish dining room upstairs. The menu celebrates British produce with innovative but unpretentious cooking.

What to try: The beef and barley bun with horseradish cream is a signature, while the Sunday roast is widely considered among London’s best.

Practical info: The downstairs bar maintains a proper pub atmosphere with local beers and no reservations required. The upstairs dining room needs booking well in advance.

While London’s historic pubs offer tradition, these modern establishments showcase the city’s thriving craft beer revolution.

This no-frills alehouse proudly declares “Ale, Cider, Meat” as its only offerings – and excels at all three. With 18 hand pumps serving changing selections from small independent British breweries, it’s a beer enthusiast’s paradise. The stripped-back Victorian interior, piano for occasional singalongs, and cash-only policy add to its charm.

What to try: Whatever’s fresh on cask from Burning Sky Brewery and the hand-raised pork pies.

Practical info: Cash only and no reservations. Gets packed on weekends but the convivial atmosphere means you’ll likely make friends while sharing a table.

Housed in a tiny Portland stone lodge at the entrance to the former Euston Station, this craft beer pioneer makes ingenious use of limited space. With over 20 taps featuring beers from around the world and hundreds more bottles, it’s a temple to brewing innovation despite its diminutive size.

What to try: The constantly rotating guest taps mean recommendations date quickly, but their cask selection always features excellent British options.

Practical info: Very small interior means most drinkers spill out onto the pavement. Perfect for a pre-train pint, but not ideal for large groups.

Away from the tourist trails, these beloved locals offer an authentic glimpse into everyday London pub culture.

This beloved Irish pub near Finsbury Park features one of London’s most ingenious beer gardens – a multi-level wooden structure that maximizes limited space with terraces climbing up and around the building. Inside, sports memorabilia covers every inch of wall and ceiling, while a Thai kitchen serves excellent food.

What to try: A properly poured Guinness and the Pad Thai – an unexpected but perfect combination.

Practical info: The garden fills up quickly on sunny days. Sports fans gather for major rugby and football matches, creating an electric atmosphere.

Standing alone in Mile End Park like a time capsule from the 1960s, The Palm Tree offers an authentic East End experience increasingly rare in gentrified London. The unchanged gold and red interior, live jazz on weekends, and no-nonsense landlords provide a glimpse into London’s past.

What to try: Keep it simple with a pint of bitter and soak in the atmosphere.

Practical info: Cash only. The isolated location in the park can seem eerie at night, but the warm glow from within is always welcoming.

Some pubs stand out for their distinctive atmosphere, offering experiences that go beyond just good drinks.

Possibly London’s most photographed pub, The Churchill Arms spends £25,000 annually on its spectacular floral displays that transform the exterior into a riot of color. In winter, thousands of Christmas lights take their place. Inside, Churchill memorabilia covers the walls, while the rear houses an excellent Thai restaurant in a conservatory setting.

What to try: Fuller’s ESB and the Massaman curry – the pub pioneered the now-common “Thai food in a pub” concept.

Practical info: Extremely popular with tourists taking photos, but locals still frequent the front bar. The flower displays are at their peak in late spring and summer.

With its maze-like interior spanning multiple levels and rooms, this Fleet Street institution offers one of London’s most atmospheric drinking experiences. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, its dark wooden paneling, narrow staircases, and vaulted cellars create an immersive journey into London’s past.

What to try: Samuel Smith’s reasonably priced beers and the traditional steak and kidney pudding.

Practical info: The lack of windows and labyrinthine layout make it easy to lose track of time – and your companions. The ground floor bar is usually less crowded than the cellar.

To enjoy London’s pubs like a local, keep these essential tips in mind:

Most importantly, pubs are Britain’s living rooms – places for conversation, community, and conviviality. Put your phone away, engage with the atmosphere, and you’ll discover why these institutions remain at the heart of London’s social life.

London’s pub culture offers a window into the city’s soul like nothing else. From historic taverns that have served patrons for centuries to cutting-edge craft beer destinations, these 15 establishments represent the finest of London’s estimated 3,500 pubs. Each has its own character, stories, and specialties waiting to be discovered.

The best approach to London’s pub scene is to combine famous destinations with serendipitous discoveries. Use this guide as a starting point, but don’t hesitate to step into that intriguing pub you happen to pass. After all, the unexpected finds often become the most memorable experiences.

Whether you’re seeking history, gastronomy, or simply a perfect pint in characterful surroundings, London’s pubs offer endless possibilities. Cheers to your exploration of these beloved institutions!