I love a pub. Not just any pub though, I love a pub with history and character and London is chock-full of them. If you are spending an extended period of time in the city I would definitely recommend that you make a concerted effort to visit as many quirky and interesting pubs in London as possible.

Unlike a lot of people I don’t have a favourite area of London, so depending on where I am visiting and the reason for my visit will determine which pubs I choose to visit.

18 Pubs in London to Visit

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese 

One of the oldest and possibly most famous of pubs in London having been rebuilt after The Great Fire it oozes history and old world charm. A true labyrinth of corridors and rooms that will leave you wanting to explore. 

Location: 145 Fleet Street, Holborn

The Coach & Horses

A modernised Georgian coaching inn, The Coach and Horses is located immediately next to the beautiful Kew Gardens, with patios and hidden gardens ideal for a Summer’s afternoon, and cosy rooms with fireplaces for a chilly Winter.

Location: Kew Green, Richmond

The Lamb and Flag 

This low-ceilinged pub was a favourite watering-hole of Charles Dickens, and it’s history continues to hang in the air. Despite being a popular place for a drink it is well worth a visit, especially if you can get a table and enjoy some simple pub grub.

Location: 33 Rose Street, Covent Garden

The Holly Bush

Being located in Hampstead, The Holly Bush feels like a classic village pub, oak flooring, wood panelling and original gas lamps help retain its old world charm. 

Located: 22 Holly Mount, Hampstead

Ye Olde Cock Tavern

Blink and you’ll easily walk past this narrow pub , head inside and you’re welcomed by exposed brickwork and leather furnishings, but with low lighting and a cosy feel you’ll happily stay for a bite to eat from their varied menu.

Location: 22 Fleet Street, Holborn

The Hereford Arms

The Hereford Arms is one of the more historic pubs in South Kensington with a colourful history dating back to Victorian times, later patrons include J.M.Barrie and Arthur Conan Doyle. Now the dark décor, wooden floors, exposed brickwork and simple lighting creates a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.

Location: 127 Gloucester Road, South Kensington

Ye Olde Mitre 

The Horseshoe Inn

In the shadow of the Shard and close to London Bridge, The Horseshoe Inn is a traditional pub, with suitable furnishings and decorations, a terrace and large garden, as well as resident cats who may fight for the comfortable seating.

Location: 26 Melior Street, Bermondsey

The George 

The George Inn is the only surviving galleried coaching inn remaining in London and this characterful building has stood since Medieval times. Due to its proximity to London Bridge and its clear historical interest, it’s become a bit of a tourist trap.

Location: 77 Borough High Street, Southwark

The Three Greyhounds

Conveniently located in the bustling area of Soho, The Three Greyhounds provides a cosy and atmospheric location for a drink and bite to eat.

Location: 25 Greek Street, Soho

The Ship and Shovell

A pub of two halves which makes it physically fascinating to visit, with lots of wood and dark traditional looking furnishings it has a warm and cosy atmosphere and as well as a great menu it is a lovely pub to visit.

Location:  1-3 Craven Passage, Charing Cross

Bob’s Lobster Wine Bar

Technically this isn’t a pub, but the service is great, the drinks are refreshing and the food is incredible. Plus they have a 1950s VW Camper Van.  

Location: Unit 71 St. Thomas Street, Southwark

Anchor Bankside

Over 500 years ago Bankside and the wider area of Southwark were known for Riverside Inns, popular among those who attended the local theatre district. Now Anchor Bankside is the only one remaining and being situated close to Borough Market and the Tate Modern it is in the perfect location to grab a drink and head out onto the raised garden for fantastic views of the Thames. 

Location: 34 Park Street, Bankside

The Barrowboy and Banker

Located close to the bustling Borough Market, this historic pub still has wonderful original features such as large windows and an impressive sweeping staircase. 

Location: 6-8 Borough High Street, Southwark

Mug House

Candlelit tables help creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere in this small wine bar tucked under London Bridge, the furnishings and décor are completed with antique curiosities and wine-making artefacts.

Locations: 1-3 Tooley Street, London Bridge

The Hidden Spirit

Not a pub, but an immersive drinking experience on board a permanently docked ship on the River Thames. It’s not the cheapest, but is perfect for a night out with work colleagues or for a birthday celebration and the attention to detail is spot on.

Location: St Mary Overie Dock, Cathedral St, London Bridge

The Grapes – Limehouse

Another of the more historic pubs in London, despite a change of name it has stood on this site for over 500 years. Wood panelling, dark furnishing and a tradition long bar creates a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Plus it’s owned by Sir Ian McKellan who has been known to join the occasional Monday night quiz.

Location: 76 Narrow Street, Limehouse 

The Prospect of Whitby – Wapping

With a 400 year old stone floor and 18th Century wood panelling, this pub oozes history. There is even a replica gallows and noose hanging on the riverside of the pub. 

Location: 57 Wapping Wall, Wapping

Which are your favourite pubs in London to visit?

Let me know in the comments.