London’s pub scene is part of the city’s character, combining centuries of history with modern food, craft beer, beautiful interiors and lively neighbourhood atmosphere. For visitors, a good pub can be just as memorable as a famous restaurant or landmark.
Some London pubs are best known for their age and stories, while others stand out for Sunday roasts, riverside views, elegant dining rooms or hidden alleyway locations.
Famous London Pubs and Addresses
These pubs are strong choices for visitors who want atmosphere, character and a proper London pub experience. Use the accordion below to view each pub’s location and short description.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Fleet Street
Address: 145 Fleet Street, London EC4A 2BU
A famously atmospheric historic pub rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, known for its maze-like rooms, low ceilings and old City of London character.
The George Inn London Bridge
Address: 75-77 Borough High Street, London SE1 1NH
A rare surviving galleried coaching inn close to Borough Market and London Bridge, ideal for visitors wanting a historic courtyard pub.
Ye Olde Mitre Holborn
Address: 1 Ely Court, Ely Place, London EC1N 6SJ
A hidden pub tucked down a narrow passageway, loved for its traditional feel, compact rooms and sense of discovery in central London.
The Spaniards Inn Hampstead
Address: Spaniards Road, Hampstead, London NW3 7JJ
A legendary Hampstead pub near the Heath, associated with London folklore and perfect for a relaxed drink after a walk.
The Mayflower Rotherhithe
Address: 117 Rotherhithe Street, London SE16 4NF
A characterful riverside pub with strong maritime associations, cosy interiors and Thames views from its terrace.
The Blackfriar Blackfriars
Address: 174 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4EG
An eye-catching Art Nouveau pub beside Blackfriars, admired for its ornate interior, carved figures and distinctive wedge-shaped building.
The Harp Covent Garden
Address: 47 Chandos Place, London WC2N 4HS
A compact Covent Garden favourite known for real ales, traditional pub atmosphere and a convenient location near theatres and Trafalgar Square.
The Devonshire Soho / Piccadilly
Address: 17 Denman Street, London W1D 7HW
A hugely popular central London pub and dining room known for Guinness, a lively bar and an upstairs restaurant serving classic British dishes.
Audley Public House Mayfair
Address: 41-43 Mount Street, London W1K 2RX
A restored Mayfair pub combining traditional wood-panelled atmosphere with art, elegant interiors and a refined central London setting.
The Churchill Arms Kensington
Address: 119 Kensington Church Street, London W8 7LN
One of London’s most photographed pubs, famous for colourful flower displays outside and Thai food inside.
The Grenadier Belgravia
Address: 18 Wilton Row, London SW1X 7NR
A tucked-away Belgravia pub with military history, cosy rooms and a classic old London atmosphere close to Hyde Park Corner.
The Lamb & Flag Covent Garden
Address: 33 Rose Street, London WC2E 9EB
A historic Covent Garden pub hidden off the main streets, popular for a traditional drink before or after theatre.
Best London Pubs for Food
London also has excellent food-led pubs, from Michelin-recognised gastropubs to relaxed neighbourhood dining rooms serving roasts, seasonal British cooking and elevated pub classics.
The Harwood Arms Fulham
Address: Walham Grove, London SW6 1QP
A celebrated Fulham gastropub known for refined British cooking, game dishes and a special-occasion pub dining experience.
Marksman Public House Hackney
Address: 254 Hackney Road, London E2 7SJ
A stylish East London pub praised for seasonal British food, a relaxed bar and a dining room suited to long lunches and Sunday roasts.
The Bull & Last Highgate / Kentish Town
Address: 168 Highgate Road, London NW5 1QS
A favourite near Hampstead Heath, offering a warm pub setting, strong food menu and an excellent stop after exploring North London.
The Baring Islington
Address: 55 Baring Street, London N1 3DS
A modern neighbourhood pub in Islington with polished food, a calm dining room and an appealing balance of pub comfort and restaurant quality.
The Parakeet Kentish Town
Address: 256 Kentish Town Road, London NW5 2AA
A handsome North London pub with a strong dining reputation, open-fire cooking and a stylish yet relaxed neighbourhood feel.
Riverside and Scenic Pub Stops
For visitors who want views as well as atmosphere, riverside pubs are a great way to experience London beyond the main sightseeing routes.
The Dove Hammersmith
Address: 19 Upper Mall, London W6 9TA
A charming riverside pub on the Thames with historic character, intimate rooms and a beautiful setting for a relaxed drink by the water.
The Ship Wandsworth
Address: 41 Jews Row, London SW18 1TB
A lively riverside pub with outdoor space, popular for group gatherings, summer drinks and informal dining by the Thames.
The White Cross Richmond
Address: Riverside, Richmond TW9 1TH
A scenic Richmond pub directly by the river, especially popular on sunny days and after walks along the Thames.
Why Private Transport Helps for London Pub Visits
London pubs are spread across many different neighbourhoods, and some of the most memorable ones are hidden in side streets, riverside areas or quieter residential districts. Private transport can make an evening smoother, especially for groups, visitors staying outside central London or anyone planning multiple stops.
- Direct hotel-to-pub journeys
- Comfortable evening transport
- Useful for groups and family gatherings
- Flexible pickup times after dinner or drinks
- Convenient for riverside pubs and neighbourhood gastropubs
Final Thoughts
London’s pubs offer far more than a quick drink. They tell stories about the city’s history, neighbourhoods, architecture and food culture. Whether you prefer a centuries-old tavern, a riverside terrace, a lively Soho pub or a polished gastropub, London has a pub experience to suit almost every visitor.