Discover the Best Area for Pubs in London: A Guide to the City's Top Drinking Districts
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 6
- 15 min read
Trying to find the best area for pubs in London? It's not easy, honestly. Every corner of the city has its own style, from old-school boozers to new places with craft beer and fancy snacks. Some people swear by the riverside, others never leave Soho. Whether you're looking for a classic pint, a spot for a Sunday roast, or just want to see where locals actually go, this guide breaks down the top drinking neighbourhoods. I’ve spent more than a few evenings (and afternoons, if I’m honest) wandering from one pub to the next, so here’s what I’ve learned about where to go if you want a proper London pub experience.
Key Takeaways
Soho is packed with famous pubs, late-night bars, and something for everyone—great if you want a lively night out.
Covent Garden and the West End have loads of hidden pubs, some with strong links to the theatre scene—perfect for pre-show drinks.
The City and Clerkenwell are full of historic pubs, including ancient taverns, Victorian gin palaces, and places once loved by writers.
Along the Thames, especially in Wapping and Rotherhithe, you’ll find scenic riverside pubs with outdoor spaces and loads of history.
North London’s Islington and Camden offer cosy locals, gastropubs, and classic Sunday roasts—ideal if you want something a bit quieter but still lively.
Exploring Soho’s Iconic Pub Scene
Soho’s pubs are the beating heart of central London – they’re lively, packed with stories, and you never quite know who you’ll brush shoulders with after dark. For anyone looking to experience London’s true character, a night out here is just about mandatory. The area hasn’t lost its unpredictable buzz, and while its boundaries have shifted over time, Soho’s spirit stays the same.
Legendary Watering Holes and History
Soho pubs come loaded with tales from days when artists, eccentrics, and all sorts of rebels made this quarter their local. Walk into the French House on Dean Street and you might squeeze in beside an actor, a poet, or a lifelong regular deep in debate. Everything about the place feels time-warped, including the crowd – they still only serve beer in halves. Then there’s the Coach & Horses, famous for its cantankerous landlord in the ‘60s and a gathering point for Private Eye journalists. Don’t be surprised if you spot old monochrome portraits or newspaper clippings hung above your table.
A quick glance at three classic Soho pubs and their founding dates:
Pub | Year Established | Famous For |
|---|---|---|
The French House | 1891 | Absurd chat, champagne, bohemians |
Coach & Horses | 1847 | Satirists, old-style interiors |
The Dog & Duck | 1897 | Tudor-revival tiles, Victorian feel |
Unique Late-Night Venues
Soho truly comes alive after dark. It’s packed with tucked-away bars you might walk straight past in daylight, only to find them throbbing with music and laughter by 10pm. The energy here is addictive, especially when everywhere else has closed. Expect:
Pubs that serve until midnight (or later on weekends), like The Crown & Two Chairmen.
Upstairs rooms where you can still catch the end of a set from a local band.
Cosy drinking dens with no music at all, just the din of spirited debate next to battered old woodwork.
If you find yourself wandering through Soho past eleven, odds are you’ll find the doors of at least one classic pub still wide open, with laughter spilling out into the street.
Classic Pubs for Every Taste
Whether you’re after a pint of well-poured bitter, a decent scotch egg, or just somewhere to people-watch, Soho’s got you. Some pubs still pull their pints by hand, and you can grab a table overlooking the madness on Old Compton Street. Standouts include:
The Dog & Duck: incredible tiles and a real Victorian gem; surprisingly good food for a central spot.
The Duke of Wellington: LGBTQ+ friendly and always bustling, you’ll find a seriously mixed crowd.
The John Snow: named for the doctor who stopped a cholera outbreak, it’s got proper ales and tiny snugs.
Here, every pub has a story, and you’ll stumble across everything from candle-lit corners to frenetic, standing-room-only bars. Soho’s reputation as London’s most legendary pub district isn’t going anywhere—and after a night here, neither are you, until last orders finally ring out.
The Charm of Covent Garden and the West End
If you’re looking to truly throw yourself into London’s lively pub culture, Covent Garden and the West End are hard to beat. This area is more than just a hub for tourists – it's packed with a mix of historic cells, quirky back-alley locals, and that proper London buzz. Whether you want a casual pint before a show or a hidden haunt away from the crowds, you’ll find a spot that suits.
Hidden Gems off the Main Squares
Let’s face it, the centre of Covent Garden gets absolutely rammed, especially around weekends or showtimes. Still, the real joy comes from ducking down the narrow alleyways and finding pubs that feel like a local secret. Some places stay busy, but the atmosphere changes completely just two streets away – suddenly it’s candlelit tables and friendly conversations.
Cosy nooks with real ales and exposed beams
Cellar pubs in basements under busy pavements
Pubs off Drury Lane and Endell Street with their own stories to tell
If you’re after the best pubs in Covent Garden, make a small detour from the central square – you’ll find places where even locals linger all night.
Pubs with Strong Theatre Connections
Theatreland has always had a knack for attracting dramatic characters, both on and off the stage. Some pubs are famous because of the actors who drank there, and some are just handy before curtain-up. There’s something fun about grabbing a drink somewhere you know has played host to more than a few pre-show nerves or post-performance celebrations.
Bar staff who know their regulars from the cast and crew
Signed theatre posters or old programmes crowding the walls
Walking distance to all the big West End playhouses
Pubs in Covent Garden often serve as unofficial green rooms, where a quick pint and a shared laugh between scenes is almost as important as what goes on stage.
Best Spots for Pre-Show Drinks
A lot of people rush in for a quick half before their West End show, but some places have tuned their atmosphere to be just right for that. There’s nothing better than squeezing in a visit to a historic watering hole before an evening of theatre. Whether you’re in a hurry or making an occasion of it, these pubs come up again and again:
Pub Name | Distance to Major Theatre | Usual Wait at Peak Times | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
The Harp | 5 min walk | 10-15 mins | Classic Victorian |
The Lamb & Flag | 7 min walk | 15-20 mins | Cosy, wood-panelled |
The Salisbury | 3 min walk | 5-10 mins | Ornate, lively |
A few tips to make the most of pre-show drinks:
Arrive early if you want a table – regulars nab spots an hour before showtimes.
Don’t be afraid to try cask ales you’ve not seen before – this area is known for rotating taps.
Double check when last orders are – some pubs close their doors the minute everyone heads to the theatre (so don’t get caught out).
Covent Garden and the West End never run out of surprises. Every visit feels different, and no matter your taste, there’s a perfect pint around the corner.
Historic Pubs of the City and Clerkenwell
London’s historic heart is full of old pubs with stories tucked into every uneven floorboard and etched into foggy windows. The City and Clerkenwell are packed with drinking spots where you’ll find real ale, battered doors and locals talking shop. Here’s a proper look at the kinds of pubs you’ll come across, and why this part of London is worth an evening or two of exploration.
Medieval Taverns and Secret Alleyways
The oldest parts of London hide some of the most atmospheric pubs. These are places that have survived fires and bombings, and have been patched up for hundreds of years. If you like wandering down tiny, twisting alleys late at night, the hunt is half the fun.
Ye Olde Mitre: Built in 1546, this is the sort of pub you’d walk past twice before finding the narrow passage leading to its door. Rumour has it Queen Elizabeth I once danced around a cherry tree in the garden.
Jamaica Wine House: Often called ‘the Jampot’, it sits where London’s first coffee house was opened in 1652. It now serves pints and the odd glass of wine in dark, wood-panelled rooms.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, it’s a true maze inside. The pub’s gloomy cellars and sawdust floors hold echoes of Dickens and Dr Johnson.
Wandering between these old alleyways after work, you get the sense that nothing much has changed here – just different faces at the same battered tables.
Literary Landmarks for Ale Lovers
Writers, poets and everyday gossipers have all left their mark. Some of these pubs genuinely feel like museums, complete with pipesmoke in the air and literary shadows lurking by the bar.
Samuel Pepys, Charles Dickens, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle all drank around these parts, particularly at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and Ye Olde Cock Tavern.
If you’re keen on plotting your own literary pub crawl, make sure to include:Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – famous literary regulars.Jamaica Wine House – rumoured haunt of poets and printers.Ye Olde Mitre – historical oddities and good ale.
And don’t worry about pomposity—most regulars are more interested in their pint than any literary trivia, so you’ll blend in just fine.
Victorian Gin Palaces and Their Legacy
Come the 1800s, gin was the drink of choice and the Victorians knew exactly how to make a boozer look grand. Glinting mirrors, etched-glass partitions and soaring ceilings are still standard in some locals around Clerkenwell.
Pubs like the Princess Louise (a bit west in Holborn, but still local) show off what a restored gin palace should look like—lots of pressed ceilings and mahogany.
Gin palaces changed the pub game: they drew in a wider crowd and made fancy drinks popular.
Today, you’ll spot original features in more humble venues, including snug freehouses such as this Clerkenwell gem with dart boards and a relaxed crowd.
Pub Name | Year Established | Known For |
|---|---|---|
Ye Olde Mitre | 1546 | Hidden location, history |
Jamaica Wine House | 1652 | Coffee origins, wine cellar |
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese | 1667 (rebuilt) | Literary regulars |
Princess Louise | 1872 | Victorian interiors |
History in the City isn’t hard to find – you just need sturdy shoes, a bit of patience, and an appetite for real ale and odd tales.
The Riverside Retreats Along the Thames
Strolling beside the Thames is a proper treat if you enjoy a drink with a bit of character and scenery. From weathered old pubs to modern terraces lined with deckchairs, this stretch of London mixes iconic river views with cosy atmospheres you don’t always find in the city centre. Every area along the Thames brings its own flair, whether you’re in the mood for history, romance, or just a gentle pint at sunset.
Riverside Classics in Wapping and Rotherhithe
Prospect of Whitby (Wapping): Claims to be London’s oldest riverside pub, dating its floors back to the 1520s. It’s got a rickety, timbered feel with a deck perfect for watching boats drift past.
The Mayflower (Rotherhithe): Tiny, creaking, and candlelit, with a jetty that juts out over the river.
The Ship (Wapping): A lovingly restored 1830s spot, filled with maritime memorabilia for that old seafarer’s vibe.
If you want to see more standout multi-level views, Fulham Pier is a top pick, especially at sunset when the Thames glimmers and the air cools off.
Historic Pubs with Scenic Views
It really does feel unique drinking at pubs that look out over the river. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:
Pub | Founded | Best For | Price of a Pint |
|---|---|---|---|
Prospect of Whitby | 1520s | Atmosphere, river decks | £5.50 - £6.20 |
The Grapes | 1720s | Eighteenth-century charm | £6.00 |
The Ship | 1837 | Historic interiors | £5.80 |
The best seats vanish fast in warm weather, but early evening is perfect—catch those pink skies with a pint in hand and it suddenly makes sense why these pubs have stuck around for centuries.
Hidden Spots for Alfresco Drinks
Captain Kidd (Wapping): Tucked inside an old warehouse, spread over three floors with lots of little nooks to escape the crowds.
The Green Room (South Bank): Secret garden terrace behind the National Theatre—it’s quiet, leafy, and somehow barely mentioned.
The Refinery: Just around the corner, decked out with proper deckchairs without too much fuss from tourists.
The Thames-side venues always win you over because you’re never far from both city bustle and peaceful water. On a quiet evening with the lights twinkling, you realise you don’t need to leave London for a proper riverside escape.
Somehow, riverside drinking promises a calmer, more ‘local’ experience even when London feels frantic everywhere else. Just don’t wait until the sun’s out to try them—these pubs deserve a visit all year round.
North London’s Atmospheric Local Pubs
There’s something special about North London pubs. Tucked among leafy streets, they combine a lived-in charm with a mix of locals and new arrivals, offering a true slice of the city’s character. It’s difficult to find a part of London with more diversity in its pubs – from grand Victorian freehouses to homey gastropubs and family-run boozers. Whether you’re after wood-panelled lounges or bustling street-corner haunts, North London’s got you covered. For anyone wanting to explore, these are some of the best spots to try out.
Victorian Freehouses in Islington
Islington stands out for its old-school, grand drinking spots. High ceilings, etched glass, and ornate bars are common, making it easy to imagine the pub through the ages.
The Albion: Classic wisteria-draped frontage and an open fire inside. Long lunches during autumn, pints in the garden during sunny spells – it’s hard to beat.
The Queen’s Head: Steps from King’s Cross. Rotating beers, cheese boards, and a real community feel.
The Drapers Arms: Sunday roasts are a hit. Be prepared to wait for a table – it’s always busy, always worth it.
To see even more brilliant options, have a look at the pubs in North London that locals keep coming back to.
Gastropubs with Community Spirit
A different breed of pub – modern, welcoming, and focused on food as much as beer:
Cosy menus: Many local pubs put as much care into their plates as their pints, serving stews, Sunday roasts, and veggie options.
Community events: Expect quiz nights, open mic evenings, and Sunday singalongs.
Local real ales: Smaller breweries are everywhere and the regulars can recommend their favourites.
Pub Name | Signature Dish | Weekly Event |
|---|---|---|
The Harrison | Plant-based roast | Live music |
The Prince | Classic roast beef | Pub quiz |
The Charles Lamb | Homemade pies | Board game nights |
Perfect Sunday Roast Destinations
If you want a great roast in North London, you’re spoiled for choice.
Holly Bush, Hampstead: Go for the home-cooked beef and stay for the open fire after a stroll on the Heath.
The Albion, Islington: Juicy lamb shoulder, big Yorkshires, all the trimmings.
The Hawley Arms, Camden: Lively, friendly, and roasts with plenty of sides.
Few things beat a cold Sunday outside with friends, ducking into a pub, and slowly letting your nose defrost over a plate of roast vegetables and tender meat. It’s one of those London rituals you just can’t skip if you’re in the north.
North London might change fast these days, but the local pub stays steady – pint in hand, chat by the bar, ready for another weekend rush.
Borough Market and London Bridge’s Modern Offerings
There’s something undeniably special about winding through Borough Market and then spilling out into the bars and pubs clustered around London Bridge. By early evening, stalls start to close and the market’s daytime bustle turns into a lively after-dark hangout for food-lovers, city workers, and cocktail hunters alike.
Trendy Craft Beer Spots
You won’t struggle to find excellent craft beer around here—Bermondsey Street in particular feels like a small city unto itself, dotted with independent microbreweries, German beer halls, and canned-beer taprooms. Some of the most-visited spots include:
Bermondsey Bierkeller: Under London Bridge, serving up massive steins and bratwurst, complete with games and Bavarian spirit.
The Market Porter: A corner staple pouring changing guest ales from casks and kegs.
London Bridge Rooftop: More about the view, but still offering local cans and pints to pair with sunset scenes.
It’s easy to try fresh batches each week, especially during happy hour and weekend events.
Venue | Speciality | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
Bermondsey Bierkeller | Bavarian imports | Lively, social |
The Market Porter | Guest cask ales | Cosy, traditional |
London Bridge Rooftop | Local craft beers | Modern, scenic |
Vibrant After-Dark Atmosphere
From quirky cocktail dens to atmospheric railway arch hideaways, the nightlife scene here feels both modern and rooted in history. Look out for:
Swift Borough, just a few steps from London Bridge, known for inventive drinks and a warm welcome.
Cahoots Postal Office, a bar with an oddball side—cocktails delivered through air-pressurised tubes in a setting full of 1940s character.
Nine Lives, a sustainable, tropical-themed basement getaway with zero-waste cocktails.
Borough Market’s evening energy really comes alive on Thursdays and Fridays, pulling a mix of after-workers and relaxed night owls.
For those who want somewhere that feels both laid-back and just a bit special, London Bridge after dark never disappoints—each visit feels a little different from the last.
Unique Venues for Wine and Cocktails
The cocktail scene here isn’t just about strong drinks—it’s about places that stick in your memory. A few standout options include:
The Back Pocket at Swift: Secretive downstairs nook for those in the know.
Quill: Chandelier-covered archway bar mixing classics with playful twists.
Tap & Bottle: A wine bar up a hidden staircase; order by the glass or even straight from the tap.
Whether you prefer a classic martini or something mixed with local honey, venues in this area put a big focus on originality and quality. Alongside relaxing at classic pubs, these venues make it easy to enjoy a cosy riverside drink or arc your way through a unique tasting flight.
So, next time you’re near Borough Market, don’t just head home when the last traders pack up. The evening crowd is just getting started, and some of the city’s most interesting bars and pubs are waiting to be discovered here.
Quirky Nights Out in Camden and Beyond
When it comes to a night that’s a little different – the sort of evening where you end up laughing about it for weeks – Camden stands out every time. It’s a patchwork of music, street art, food, and some of the strangest bars you could hope to stumble into.
Live Music and Eclectic Crowds
Camden is the heart of London’s alternative scene. On a weekend, the streets buzz and queues form outside live music venues that have hosted everyone from old-school legends to today’s indie hopefuls. If you wander down the main drag or get lost near the canal, you’ll end up hearing bands you’ve never heard of (and some you probably have).
Here’s what to expect from a night of music in Camden:
Venues ranging from sticky-floored pubs to bigger concert halls
A mix of fans, musicians, and the just-curious filling every corner
Genres from punk and ska to acoustic and jazz
Alternative Bars with Character
Forget cookie-cutter chain pubs; Camden prides itself on places that wear their personal quirks upfront. There are bars decorated like Victorian carnivals, places with secret doors, and the odd basement club you can only find if you ask the right local. The cocktails? Sometimes smoky, sometimes neon, rarely boring.
Top three types of alternative Camden bars:
Retro gaming bars where you can battle on old-school consoles.
Speakeasy-style hideaways tucked beneath tattoo shops.
Hauntingly themed pubs sprinkled with rock memorabilia.
Classic Bohemian Pubs
Old-school bohemian is alive in Camden. These pubs draw a crowd that’s equal parts poet, punk, and hungover regular. Unfussy pints, worn-in sofas, maybe even a battered upright piano in the corner – it all adds up to nights with plenty of stories.
Typical features you’ll find:
Draught beers behind the bar (often local brews)
Improv or open mic nights
Chalkboards with cryptic references to the next event
Venue Type | Average Pint (£) | Typical Closing Time | Noteworthy Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
Dive Music Pub | 5.20 | Midnight | Spontaneous jam sessions |
Retro-Themed Cocktail Bar | 9.00 | 2am | Secret password entry |
Bohemian Local Pub | 5.50 | 11pm | Weekly poetry slams |
Nights out in Camden are messy, memorable affairs – there’s always something new around the corner, and you never really know where you’ll end up until you get there. The best bit is, no one cares how you dress, what you drink, or if you’ve ever heard of the headliner – you just show up and jump in.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – London’s pub scene is as varied as the city itself. Whether you’re after a riverside pint, a cosy corner in a centuries-old tavern, or a lively spot to catch up with friends, there’s a neighbourhood for every mood. I’ve spent more evenings than I can count wandering from one area to the next, and honestly, each has its own charm. Some places are perfect for a quiet Sunday roast, others for a proper night out. The best advice? Don’t overthink it. Pick an area that sounds good, pop in somewhere that catches your eye, and see where the night takes you. With so many pubs dotted across London, you’re never far from a good time – or a decent pint. Cheers to exploring, and let me know if you stumble across a hidden gem I’ve missed!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes London’s pubs so special?
London’s pubs are famous for their cosy feel, long history, and friendly crowds. Many have been around for hundreds of years, and each one has its own story. Whether you want a quiet drink, a lively night out, or a tasty meal, there’s a pub for every mood in the city.
Do I have to be 18 to drink in London’s pubs?
Yes, you must be 18 or older to buy alcohol in London. If you’re 16 or 17, you can have wine or beer with a meal if you’re with an adult, but you can’t buy it yourself.
What is a ‘round’ in a London pub?
A ‘round’ is when one person buys drinks for everyone in their group. Each person takes turns to buy a round. It’s a common way to share and makes sure everyone gets included.
Are tips expected in London pubs?
Tipping isn’t required in most London pubs, but it’s always appreciated if you feel you had good service. You can leave some change or say ‘keep the change’ when paying.
How late are London pubs open?
Most London pubs close around 11pm, but some in busy areas stay open later, especially on weekends. Staff will usually ring a bell for ‘last orders’ about 20 minutes before closing.
Do London pubs serve food as well as drinks?
Yes, many pubs in London serve food, from simple snacks to full meals. Some even have menus as good as restaurants, offering classic British dishes like fish and chips or Sunday roasts.