The Best Pubs in London You HAVEN’T Already Been To

If it’s history you’re after, then The Mayflower might be one of the best pubs in London for you.

This boozer claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames, and to be fair, it dates back to the early 1600s. Named after the ship that took the Pilgrims to America, it oozes character with dark beams, candlelit tables and a charming riverside terrace.

Some places in London have such an intense historic feeling about them that you can almost hear the ghosts whispering to you from the walls, and this is (in my opinion) one of the very best of them.

I should say that the Prospect of Whitby wants to knock the Mayflower off its historical perch, because this place dates all the way back to 1520. 

For centuries, this was the haunt of smugglers and pirates, and, if its lucky, its next patron will be much nicer: e.g. you. 

PSST: Head around the back to get some unbeatable views of the Thames and check out the replica gallows.

If you’re something of a culture vulture, head here. 

The Swan offers something a bit more refined than sea-faring criminals of the past. Attached to none other than Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, this elegant pub is classically British and, dare I say it, rather fancy. 

Best of all, it has balcony seating and beautiful views of St. Paul’s Cathedral across the water (and even live jazz sessions on Sundays).

Legend has it that this once infamous pub gained its name from local folklore (no guesses for who the main character in that one was). However, if you have heard of this place before, it’s probably because of its more recent history. 

The Blind Beggar was where London gangster Ronnie Kray murdered George Cornell in 1966, and this grizzly gangster shootout has become part of its fabric. 

These days, you’re more likely to run into some friendly locals (the older ones may even tell you about what the pub was like “back in the day”) and until very recently, a very friendly pub cat (RIP Edward).

We’ll let you in on a little secret with this one: this is one of the best pubs in London for doing some sleuthing, especially if you don’t mind sifting through 200 year-old cold cases.

What do I mean by that? Well, The Ten Bells is forever linked to the infamous serial killer, Jack the Ripper. 

Several of his victims are believed to have visited this pub, and if you decide to take the case on in this murder mystery treasure hunt, you’ll be their next patron on a mission!

If you find yourself thirsty (and more importantly, hungry) in Greenwich, don’t despair. 

The Prince of Greenwich is an underrated hidden gem with an absolutely incredible Italian menu (I dream about that Tiramisu). It also has a real working fireplace, which only adds to the charm of the place.

Back in the day, you’d find most of the Houses of Parliament in here sipping on a pint (or something else) between votes. 

How do I know? It’s one of the only pubs that still contains a Division Bell (it used to ring to alert MPs to go back to the HoP), although sadly, it stopped working around 2020.

Be that as it may, it’s just a few steps away from the political nucleus of London, and for that reason, it’s as close to the corridors of power as you can get with a pint in hand. And that’s got to be worth something!

Don’t be fooled by the name: this pub isn’t joining the fight for the oldest pub in London title (although you will find a sign saying that a pub has been on this site since 1430). 

But even though the current version of the pub was only built in the 19th century, Cittie of Yorke is one of the best pubs in London for indulging in lovely interiors. 

I for one love the dark oak interiors, grand booths (great when there’s a lot of you), and a huge vaulted hall, it feels a bit like drinking in a Gothic cathedral (or Hogwarts, I guess).

Sorry, I probably should have warned anyone with a sensitive stomach that most of the best pubs in London come with a side of seriously ghastly history.

As its name suggests, Hung, Drawn & Quartered sits near the Tower of London and serves up gallows humour along with quality ales. Shout out to the staff here who are super friendly!

Where do I even start with the Artillery Arms?

This is one of our top faves in London, so much so that we recommend it on our Shoreditch treasure hunt. Why? It’s conveniently close to incredible history (opposite Bunhill Fields), it’s got a decent selection of real ales (and craft brews), and every time you visit you find something new. 

Don’t forget to admire the stained glass windows!

Here’s something you probably weren’t expecting to read in a list of the best pubs in London: this place was once nicknamed "The Bucket of Blood" for its bare-knuckle fights. True story.

The Lamb & Flag is a Georgian-era pub tucked away from the main hustle and bustle of London and it’s a great all-rounder. 

Ideal if you never miss a match of just about anything (because it has BT Sports and Sky), fancy a bite to eat (the food is classic and brilliant) or just want to catch up with a friend.

If you’re in the mood to wear your (hopefully metaphorical) fancy pants, head here. 

The Coach & Horses brings together Mayfair style and traditional charm, and the result is a cosy, classic British pub. 

With plush interiors and premium service, it’s ideal for a more upscale pint (and that fireplace is everything on a chilly winter day).

If you want to go to a pub that feels like your local, even if you’re from miles away, this might just be it. 

The Prince of Wales in Kennington is a lively community pub with regular events, sports screenings, and a large beer garden conveniently close to the local cricket oval. 

One of our summer favourites, for sure!

A classic Westminster spot, the Marquis of Granby is a timeless pub that proves great things come in smaller packages.

Yes, it’s not massive but there’s a whole lot of warmth, great beers and timeless, historic energy concealed behind its door!

The Hoop & Toy is Kensington’s oldest pub (we’re back to talking about ages!) and a local favourite with locals and students alike. And don’t be put off by that!

Old or young, hungry or thirsty, local or visitor, there’s a few things we all want from our pubs: comfort food, real ales, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. This place has all three in spades.

I have a real soft spot for this pub, partially because of its history.

If you didn’t know, it’s named after the guy who cultivated the Cavendish banana (the most common variety of banana available on the planet). That was reason enough to get me in there, anyway. 

Just around the corner from Harrods, Paxton’s Head is a beautifully tiled Victorian pub with ornate interiors and truly incredible roast dinners.

Last but not least, one of our favourite pubs near Tower Hill. 

As you can probably see by the photo, this reconstructed 18th-century warehouse-turned-pub offers scenic views of the docks. 

What you can’t see (or taste without visiting yourself) are the hearty meals and historic ambiance in one of the city’s most picturesque corners.