London’s pub culture is steeped in history, offering everything from centuries-old taverns to cozy hidden gems. Whether you’re after a traditional pint, a scenic riverside spot, or a pub with a fascinating backstory, the city has no shortage of places to explore. Here are ten of the most iconic pubs in London, each with its own distinct character.
1. The Churchill Arms
📍 119 Kensington Church Street, Kensington, W8 7LN
This Kensington favorite is as famous for its exterior as it is for what’s inside. Covered in an extravagant display of flowers, The Churchill Arms is impossible to miss. Step inside, and you’ll find walls packed with Winston Churchill memorabilia, adding to its quirky charm. In an unexpected twist, the pub is also known for serving some of the best Thai food in town.
💰 Pints from £5; Thai mains from £10
2. The Mayflower Pub
📍 117 Rotherhithe Street, Rotherhithe, SE16 4NF
Dating back to 1620, this historic pub sits right on the Thames, offering a cozy atmosphere with wooden beams and an outdoor deck perfect for soaking up river views. Named after the ship that carried the Pilgrims to America, The Mayflower is rich in maritime history and makes for a great spot to enjoy a classic British ale.
💰 Pints from £5; mains from £12
3. The Spaniards Inn
📍 Spaniards Road, Hampstead, NW3 7JJ
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Spaniards Inn dates back to 1585 and has ties to literary legends like Charles Dickens and John Keats. With its low-beamed ceilings, roaring fireplaces, and a beer garden surrounded by greenery, this Hampstead pub is a perfect escape from the city’s hustle.
💰 Pints from £5.50; mains from £14
4. The Lamb & Flag
📍 33 Rose Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9EB
Nicknamed “The Bucket of Blood” in the 19th century due to its history of bare-knuckle fights, The Lamb & Flag is a true Covent Garden institution. Today, it’s a much more peaceful spot where visitors can enjoy a pint of cask ale and classic pub food in a historic setting.
💰 Pints from £5; mains from £11
5. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
📍 145 Fleet Street, City of London, EC4A 2BU
Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666, this pub is a maze of dark wood-paneled rooms and underground cellars. A favorite haunt of literary figures like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese offers a true step back in time, complete with a roaring fireplace and traditional pub fare.
💰 Pints from £4.50; mains from £10
6. The George Inn
📍 77 Borough High Street, Southwark, SE1 1NH
The George Inn is London’s last remaining galleried coaching inn, meaning it still retains the multi-tiered balconies that once overlooked bustling horse-drawn carriages. Tucked away near Borough Market, it’s a great spot for a pint while soaking up some of London’s rich history.
💰 Pints from £5; mains from £12
7. The Prospect of Whitby
📍 57 Wapping Wall, Wapping, E1W 3SH
This riverside pub claims to be the oldest along the Thames, dating back to 1520. The interior has a nautical feel, with wooden floors, pewter-topped bars, and historic relics, while the outdoor seating offers one of the best pub views in London.
💰 Pints from £5.50; mains from £13
8. The French House
📍 49 Dean Street, Soho, W1D 5BG
An iconic Soho watering hole, The French House is known for its artistic crowd and unconventional rules—drinks are served in half-pints, and there are no TVs or music. With a rich history that includes hosting wartime exiles like Charles de Gaulle, this pub is a must-visit for those looking for a more intimate and lively atmosphere.
💰 Half-pints from £3; mains from £12
9. The Ten Bells
📍 84 Commercial Street, Spitalfields, E1 6LY
This historic Spitalfields pub is famous for its connection to Jack the Ripper, as it was frequented by some of his victims in the late 19th century. Despite its dark past, The Ten Bells today is a vibrant pub with a mix of traditional and modern decor, serving craft beers and cocktails alongside its historic charm.
💰 Pints from £5; mains from £11
10. The Grenadier
📍 18 Wilton Row, Belgravia, SW1X 7NR
Hidden away in a quiet Belgravia mews, The Grenadier has a haunted reputation, with stories of ghostly soldiers wandering its candle-lit rooms. With a military-themed interior and cozy feel, it’s a great place to visit in the autumn or winter when the atmosphere feels even more mysterious.
💰 Pints from £5.50; mains from £13
Final Thoughts
London’s pub scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from centuries-old taverns filled with history to lively hotspots buzzing with character. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink in a traditional setting or a pub with a unique twist, there’s no shortage of options to explore. Cheers!
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