Best Pubs in London: Where to Drink & Unforgettable Vibes

Londoners take their pubs seriously. These aren’t just places to grab a drink — they’re institutions. Full of history, character, and a whole lot of beer, London pubs are where stories are shared, roasts are devoured, and the occasional ghost might drop in for a pint.

Whether you’re after a riverside spot, a literary haunt, or a local boozer with charm for days, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best pubs in London for your next crawl — or cosy afternoon.

And if you want to explore London’s pubs without wrestling with the Tube or worrying about how to get back safely after a few, Premium Chauffeur Service is the way to go. But more on that after your pint.

1. The Churchill Arms (Kensington)

Address: 119 Kensington Church St, W8 7LN

You’ll know it when you see it. Covered in flowers and flags, The Churchill Arms is an iconic London pub that’s basically a floral explosion with beer inside. The walls are packed with Winston Churchill memorabilia, and the back room serves surprisingly great Thai food.

🌸 Photo op: Snap a picture outside — it’s one of London’s most Instagrammed pubs.

2. Ye Olde Mitre (Holborn)

Address: 1 Ely Court, Ely Place, EC1N 6SJ

Hidden in a quiet alley near Hatton Garden, Ye Olde Mitre feels like a secret pub from another era. Built in 1546, it was once part of the Diocese of Ely — technically outside London jurisdiction at the time!

🕵️‍♂️ Tip: Blink and you’ll miss it. Look for a narrow passage just off Hatton Garden.

3. The Mayflower (Rotherhithe)

Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, SE16 4NF

Perched on the Thames in a quiet corner of southeast London, this riverside pub is named after the Mayflower ship that sailed to America in 1620. Expect nautical decor, creaky floors, and a spectacular riverside deck.

🌅 Go at golden hour: The sunset views over the water are unbeatable.

4. The Harp (Covent Garden)

Address: 47 Chandos Pl, WC2N 4HS

Small but mighty, The Harp is a haven for ale lovers. With a rotating selection of cask ales and ciders, it’s won multiple CAMRA awards and is beloved by locals and tourists alike.

🍻 Pro tip: Try the guest ales — they change regularly, so there’s always something new on tap.

5. The Blackfriar (Blackfriars)

Address: 174 Queen Victoria St, EC4V 4EG

This Grade II-listed pub is a work of art. Literally. Built in the early 1900s, it’s covered in Art Nouveau decor, mosaics, and carved monks. A true hidden gem for both beer and design lovers.

🎨 Fun fact: It was almost demolished in the 1960s, but saved by a campaign led by Sir John Betjeman.

6. The Victoria (Paddington)

Address: 10A Strathearn Pl, W2 2NH

A beautifully restored Victorian pub tucked behind Paddington Station. It’s all dark wood, leather banquettes, chandeliers, and cosy corners. Great for a quiet pint or a hearty lunch before hopping on a train.

🛤️ Bonus: There’s even a secret upstairs gin bar — ask the staff.

7. The Pride of Spitalfields (Brick Lane)

Address: 3 Heneage St, E1 5LJ

A proper East End boozer just off Brick Lane. It’s no-frills, authentic, and full of locals — plus, a resident pub cat called Lenny. One of those pubs that feels like it’s been around forever (because it has).

🐈 Local celebrity: Say hi to Lenny if he’s holding court on the bar.

8. Waxy O’Connor’s (Soho)

Address: 14-16 Rupert St, W1D 6DD

Part pub, part labyrinth, this massive Irish bar has several levels, hidden nooks, and even a tree inside. Great for live music, Guinness, and a lively crowd. Don’t be surprised if you lose your friends for a bit.

🍀 Fun vibe: Perfect place to start a wild night in Soho.

9. The Lamb & Flag (Covent Garden)

Address: 33 Rose St, WC2E 9EB

Nicknamed “The Bucket of Blood” for its history of bare-knuckle fights in the 1800s, today it’s a charming Georgian pub with wood panelling and a great selection of beers. Dickens was a regular. Of course he was.

🕰️ Insider tip: Head upstairs — it’s usually quieter and feels more local.

10. The Coach & Horses (Soho)

Address: 29 Greek St, W1D 5DH

Once the haunt of journalists and Private Eye writers, this pub has literary and rebellious roots. It still hosts the occasional piano singalong and keeps that classic Soho pub feel alive.

🎹 Still got it: Look out for the old piano nights and boozy banter.

11. The Cadogan Arms (Chelsea)

Address: 298 King’s Rd, SW3 5UG

Elegant and refined but still with solid pub charm, The Cadogan Arms recently got a stylish makeover. It’s Chelsea, so expect things a bit fancier — but the Sunday roast and cocktails are worth dressing up for.

🍽️ Bonus points: The food here is some of the best pub fare in the city.

Quick Tips for the London Pub Experience

New to the London pub scene? Here’s what you should know:

• Order at the bar. There’s no table service in most pubs.
• Know your round etiquette. It’s common to buy drinks in rounds — keep track!
• Mind the bell. When you hear it ring, it’s last orders — your final chance to grab a pint.
• Don’t tip. Unless there’s table service, tipping at the bar isn’t expected.
• Try a real ale. This is your moment to go full Brit.

Explore London’s Pubs in Style (and Safety)

Let’s be honest — a proper pub crawl is no fun when you’re worried about how to get home, especially after sampling the entire beer board at The Harp.

That’s why Premium Chauffeur Service is the smart (and stylish) choice for exploring London’s legendary pubs.

Why choose a chauffeur for your pub adventures?

• 🚘 Door-to-door drop-offs — even down tricky little alleys.
• 🛋️ Ride in luxury — leather seats, air-con, and no stress.
• 🧑‍✈️ Experienced local drivers who know the quickest routes and best pubs.
• 🕐 Flexible bookings — hire for a night out or a full-day pub tour.
• 💡 Safety first — get home comfortably after a few pints.

Whether you’re doing a DIY pub crawl or booking a private guided pub tour across historic London, having your own chauffeur makes the day effortless. You focus on the fun — chauffeurz.london handles the transport.

🍻 Pub tip: Ask your chauffeur to plan a custom route across London’s best pubs — it’s like a private tasting tour, without the long walk between stops.

Raise a Glass to the Best of London

From Dickensian dens and haunted hideaways to riverside hangouts and royal favourites, London’s pub scene is second to none. You don’t need to hit every single one — but hey, it’s worth a try.

And while you’re exploring the capital’s best pints, be sure to do it safely, comfortably, and stylishly with Premium Chauffeur Service. Because when you’re drinking like royalty, you might as well ride like them, too.

Cheers to the best pubs in London — and the stories you’ll tell after. 🍻