The History of London Pubs:
And the Best Pubs to Visit Today

London’s pubs are more than places to drink. They are social landmarks, historical records, and living rooms for the city. From Roman taverns and medieval alehouses to coaching inns and Victorian gin palaces, pubs have shaped how Londoners meet, trade, debate, celebrate, and relax.

Planning an evening out? Our Hourly Travel and Chauffeur Services are ideal for comfortable, door-to-door journeys across London.

The origins: Roman taverns and Saxon alehouses

The story of London pubs begins almost as early as London itself. When the Romans founded Londinium around AD 43, taverns soon followed, serving travellers, soldiers, and merchants arriving via the Thames. After the Romans left, Saxon alehouses became common—often run from homes, supporting daily life with locally brewed ale.

Medieval inns, taverns, and the rise of the pub

By the Middle Ages, London’s growing population created demand for more formal establishments:

• Alehouses serving local communities
• Taverns specialising in wine and hosting wealthier patrons
• Inns offering food, lodging, and stables for travellers

Many pubs began life as coaching inns—built to serve people moving in and out of the city. Several survive today, hidden behind narrow lanes and historic façades.

The Great Fire, Gin Craze, and Victorian pub culture

The Great Fire of London (1666) destroyed thousands of buildings, including countless taverns. As the City rebuilt, pubs returned—often sturdier, more regulated, and increasingly central to community life. The 18th century’s Gin Craze led to tighter rules and the steady evolution of “the pub” as we recognise it today.

By the Victorian era, London pubs entered a golden age. Elaborate interiors, etched glass, tilework, carved wood, and generous public rooms defined the classic Victorian gin palace—many of which remain among London’s most beautiful drinking spaces.

The best historic pubs to visit in London

This is a curated selection chosen for atmosphere, heritage, and setting—timeless pubs that feel unmistakably London.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)

• Rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire
• Deeply atmospheric: low ceilings, dark wood, cellar rooms
• A true City classic for a “step back in time” feel

The George Inn (Southwark)

• London’s famous surviving galleried coaching inn
• Historic courtyard setting—excellent for daylight visits
• Ideal paired with Borough Market or a Thames-side walk

The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead)

• One of London’s most storied traditional inns
• Perfect before or after Hampstead Heath
• A countryside feel within London

The Lamb & Flag (Covent Garden)

• Compact, lively, and famously old-school
• Excellent stop during a West End stroll
• Great atmosphere early evening

The Prospect of Whitby (Wapping)

• Iconic riverside pub with standout Thames views
• Rich maritime history in an atmospheric setting
• Best at sunset when the river slows down

Map-based pub routes (City / Soho / Thames-side)

Each route below includes a Google-friendly “Open in Maps” link you can use on mobile or desktop. All routes are designed for walking, but they also work beautifully as private chauffeured evenings—especially if you’d like to combine multiple areas in one night.

How to make a pub evening feel effortless

• Start earlier for historic pubs (they’re often smaller and fill up quickly)
• Group stops by area to minimise travel time
• If you’re covering multiple neighbourhoods, consider hourly chauffeur travel for comfort and flexibility
• For celebrations or client hosting, a private chauffeured evening keeps the night smooth and well-paced

Enjoy responsibly. If you’re planning a late finish, pre-booking your journey home helps you avoid last-minute delays.