The 7 Best Pubs in London

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear ‘London’? Well unsurprisingly, the most common answer is the humble pub. Thankfully, throughout time London has accumulated its fair share of historical inns and we’re here to share some of our favourites for that next visit to England’s capital.

You’re taking a stroll around Hampstead Heath and fancy a quiet drink to quench your thirst. Just a 5-minute walk off the Heath you’ll find The Spaniards Inn. With a claim to fame in Charles Dickens “The Pickwick Papers”, the pub has a large selection of cask ales and gastropub food on offer making it the perfect place to relax and recharge.

With traditional Sunday Roasts on the menu, the Marksman Public House offers one of the best in the city. Celebrating the best of British is what this place is all about and the upstairs dining area designed by Martino Gamper offers a great space to enjoy what the Marksman has to offer. Back in 2017, the Marksman became the first London pub to gain the prestigious Michelin Pub of the Year award so call ahead and get a taste of some of the best pub grub in London. 

Nestled a short walk between West Brompton & Fulham Broadway stations, you’ll find The Harwood Arms & its Michelin starred food gems. With a focus on game and wild food, The Harwood Arms only uses the best British produce there is. The relaxed atmosphere makes this a great spot for a quiet drink and one of London’s best pubs for food whilst exploring West London’s picturesque back streets.

Pubs don’t get much more traditional than the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. Tucked away just off of Fleet Street you’ll find one of London’s most well-known & iconic pubs. This historic establishment has multiple floors with a dozen or so rooms to get lost in. If you’re over 6 foot, mind your head as the ceilings are pretty low in places! Rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire of London, the history speaks for itself and makes a visit essential for any budding historians out there.

Named after the ship that moored nearby in 1620, the Mayflower’s terrace offers a great viewpoint for a drink overlooking the River Thames. Famed for being the oldest pub on the Thames, the interesting interior is decked out with former church pews but whilst the sun is shining there’s no better place than the riverside terrace.

Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, Rotherhithe, London SE16 4NF, United Kingdom

The popular area of Borough offers a wealth of bars and restaurants but none quite as unique as the George Inn. Known for being William Shakespeare’s local, this National Trust protected establishment is the last remaining galleried coaching inn in London. Grab a drink and sit out in the courtyard whilst admiring the sites that inspired the great writers’ own stories.

One of London’s most iconic & recognisable pubs is known for its spectacular flowery exterior. What started as a few hanging baskets, The Churchill Arms botanical displays have bloomed into over 100 tubs with over 50 baskets & window boxes covering its outer walls. With an annual cost of around £25,000, the owners keep the flowers blooming all year round so why not take a visit the next time you’re in West London & grab that iconic Instagram snap.

Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to get out there and explore what London has to offer.