London’s pub scene is legendary, offering everything from historic establishments with centuries of history to trendy, modern gastropubs with innovative menus. As a tourist, visiting some of London’s best pubs is a great way to soak in the local culture and enjoy traditional British food and drink. Here are some of the best pubs to experience as a tourist, ranging from historical landmarks to hidden gems:

Historic Pubs:

The George Inn (London Bridge)
The George Inn is one of London’s most historic pubs, dating back to the 17th century and located just off Borough High Street. It's a beautiful half-timbered building with a courtyard, once a coaching inn frequented by Charles Dickens. Enjoy a pint of ale in this atmospheric setting, and imagine the history of those who have passed through its doors.

The Mayflower (Rotherhithe)
Named after the famous ship that set sail for America, The Mayflower is an old-world pub on the River Thames with stunning views of the river. Dating back to 1550, it’s full of charm and character, with a cozy interior perfect for winter nights. In the summer, the terrace overlooking the Thames is ideal for a pint in the sun.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)
This famous pub, rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, is steeped in history. A favorite haunt of literary giants like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, its labyrinthine layout and dark wood interiors evoke a true sense of old London. With multiple rooms and cellar bars, it feels like stepping back in time as you enjoy a pint of traditional British ale.

The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead)
Perched near Hampstead Heath, The Spaniards Inn is one of London’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1585. It’s steeped in history and legend, with claims that highwayman Dick Turpin used it as a hideout. The pub’s cozy interior and outdoor beer garden make it a great spot to enjoy a pint after a stroll on the Heath.

Classic British Pubs with Great Atmosphere:

The Churchill Arms (Kensington)
Famous for its stunning flower-covered exterior and its quirky interior filled with Churchill memorabilia, this Kensington pub is a visual treat. It’s also known for serving excellent Thai food alongside traditional British ales, making it a unique blend of old-world pub charm and international cuisine.

The Lamb and Flag (Covent Garden)
This traditional pub has been around since the early 18th century and was once known for its bare-knuckle boxing matches. Today, it’s a cozy spot tucked away in a Covent Garden alley, perfect for a pint of ale after exploring the West End. The warm, historic ambiance makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The Grenadier (Belgravia)
Tucked away down a charming mews street, The Grenadier is a quintessential British pub said to be haunted by a soldier who was caught cheating at cards. It has a rich military history and is famous for its steak and ale pies. The pub’s cozy interior, complete with low ceilings and candlelit tables, makes it feel like a hidden gem in the heart of Belgravia.

The Holly Bush (Hampstead)
Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Hampstead, The Holly Bush is a traditional pub with wooden beams, open fires, and plenty of nooks and crannies. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet pint or a hearty Sunday roast, especially after a walk through the beautiful streets of Hampstead or a visit to nearby Hampstead Heath.

Gastropubs:

The Harwood Arms (Fulham)
The Harwood Arms is the only Michelin-starred pub in London, making it a must-visit for food lovers. It offers a refined take on traditional British dishes, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy both excellent food and a traditional pub atmosphere, combining the best of both worlds.

The Jugged Hare (Barbican)
This gastropub specializes in wild game and traditional British dishes. Located near the Barbican Centre, it offers a mix of modern and classic pub fare, including venison, rabbit, and other game meats. The bar is equally impressive, offering a wide range of craft beers and wines.

The Eagle (Farringdon)
One of the pioneers of the gastropub movement, The Eagle has been serving high-quality, seasonal food alongside a great selection of ales since the 1990s. It’s a relaxed, no-fuss pub where the focus is on great food and a casual atmosphere, making it popular with both locals and visitors.

Pubs with Views:

The Dove (Hammersmith)
Nestled on the banks of the Thames, The Dove offers one of the best riverside pub experiences in London. It’s a tiny pub with a cozy, traditional interior, but the real treat is the outdoor terrace, which offers beautiful views of the river. It’s a perfect spot to relax with a pint on a sunny day or enjoy the views at sunset.

The Trafalgar Tavern (Greenwich)
This grand riverside pub in Greenwich has stunning views of the Thames and is steeped in history, dating back to 1837. It was a favorite haunt of Charles Dickens and offers a glimpse into the maritime history of London. The pub is spacious, with large windows offering views of the river and passing boats, and it’s perfect for a Sunday roast after visiting Greenwich’s many attractions.

The Anchor (Bankside)
Another Thames-side pub, The Anchor in Bankside has historical ties dating back to Shakespeare’s time, when it was frequented by actors from the nearby Globe Theatre. The riverside seating offers stunning views of the Thames and St. Paul’s Cathedral, making it an ideal spot for tourists to soak up some history while enjoying a drink.

Quirky and Unique Pubs:

The Ten Bells (Spitalfields)
A historic pub with a dark past, The Ten Bells is famous for its association with Jack the Ripper, as two of his victims were believed to have visited here. Located in the trendy Spitalfields area, it’s a quirky, old-world pub with plenty of charm and a bit of eerie history to go with it.

The Prince (West Brompton)
The Prince is a massive beer garden and pub, hidden away behind a row of terraced houses in West Brompton. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, great food stalls, and a wide selection of drinks. This hidden gem feels more like a lively summer garden party than a traditional pub, making it a fun stop for something a little different.

The Blind Pig (Soho)
A speakeasy-style pub located above the restaurant Social Eating House, The Blind Pig offers quirky cocktails and a fun, prohibition-era vibe. The dimly lit interior and inventive drinks menu make it a great spot for an evening out in Soho, with a modern twist on the traditional pub experience.

Pubs with Live Music:

The Dublin Castle (Camden)
This legendary Camden pub is known for its live music, having hosted famous bands like Madness and Blur in their early days. It’s still a popular spot for live music lovers, with regular gigs from up-and-coming acts. The atmosphere is lively and a bit gritty, making it a great choice for those who want to experience London’s music scene.

The Old Blue Last (Shoreditch)
Known for its connection to the indie music scene and operated by Vice, The Old Blue Last is a pub and live music venue in trendy Shoreditch. It’s a great spot for discovering new bands or enjoying a laid-back pint in one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Whether you’re after a cozy, traditional pub experience, a pint with a riverside view, or a quirky, unique spot to sip your drink, London’s pub scene has something for everyone.