Best Pubs in London | Eating Europe

In London, the pub is a way of life, a place where ice-cold pints and delicious British food come together to be enjoyed with friends and family, often in centuries-old establishments. There’s a pub in the capital for everyone, from historic corner bars and gastropubs to lively local taverns that stay open late. People come here for all sorts of reasons, as some like to watch the football while others simply come for a chat.

What Makes a Great London Pub?

A proper London pub means great beer on draught, friendly people behind the bar, fantastic food, and that feeling like you belong. I’ve rounded up my list of the best pubs in London, including some of my favorites that we visit on my London food tours. Get ready for tasty grub and even better brews!

The Best Pubs in London (and Why They’re Worth Visiting)

The Mayflower Pub

Photo credit: The Mayflower Pub

The Mayflower in Rotherhithe is a riverside pub in London that gets a lot of attention among locals for its diverse food menu with snacks like old English sausages and a deck that provides fantastic views.

I was lucky enough to snag a seat in the outdoor seating area facing the river on the Saturday I visited, as it filled up immediately after I arrived. Among the drinks I sampled, their bitter and malty cask ale stood out. It’s rotated regularly every few days, so there’s always something new to try.

The Mayflower Pub – London SE16 4NF – Open every Monday to Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Lord Wargrave

Photo credit: Lord Wargrave

Whiskey lovers need to swing by the trendy Lord Wargrave in Marylebone to try something from their eclectic selection. Not only will you find a nice dram here, but they’re also famed for their St. Louis pork ribs.

When I dropped by, there was football on, so the place was buzzing. I still managed to find a table and indulge in one of their amazing boulevardier cocktails, full of cacao-flavored notes and a nice citrusy twist.

Lord Wargrave – London W1H 5HE – Open every Monday to Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm.

The Albion

Photo credit: The Albion

Tucked away in Islington, the Albion is a gastropub set inside a beautiful Georgian building, known for serving up a cracking Sunday roast. The beer garden is perfect for a few drinks when the sun’s out, while the classy indoor space is ideal when it’s raining. Daytime draws in families, but come evening, things can get a bit lively with a younger crowd.

When I stopped by, I spotted Guinness on draught and couldn’t resist. To my surprise, it was just as creamy as the ones I’ve had in Dublin, with a nice touch of sweetness.

The Albion – London N1 1HW – Open every Monday to Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm.

The Grenadier

Photo credit: The Grenadier

Out in Belgrave Square lies the Grenadier, a grand old boozer that’s a hit with both locals and tourists. Do as the regulars do and order some grub like the indulgent beef Wellington, and treat yourself to one of their famous Bloody Marys.

I wasn’t drinking that day, so I came just for the food. I went for the briny, battered haddock, paired with fresh-cut chips, and a side of creamy mushy peas.

The Grenadier – London SW1X 7NR – Open every day from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

The Spaniards Inn

Photo credit: The Spaniards Inn

Far from the bustle of the city center, the Spaniards Inn in Hampstead is a classic gastro pub with plenty of British charm. It’s the ideal spot to kick back and relax over the weekend, especially in their gorgeous outdoor area where they even hand out blankets when it gets chilly.

Although the ribeye steak smelled amazing, I kept it simple with drinks and went for a crisp, refreshing glass of Prosecco that was just the thing for a hot day.

The Spaniards Inn – London NW3 7JJ – Open every Monday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, and every Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:30 pm.

The Ship Soho

Photo credit: The Ship Soho

Hidden in the hip Soho district, the Ship is one of London’s historic pubs that always has a good atmosphere, regardless of the day of the week. With its warm wooden interior and fascinating musical history, you can always count on some indie or rock tunes playing in the background.

My friends are regulars here as they always come for the Fuller’s beer, which is a proper London brew, so I joined them for a pint a few months back. Malty and hoppy, every sip was an absolute treat.

The Ship Soho – London W1F 0TT – Open every Monday to Friday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am to 11:30 pm, and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm.

Ye Old Mitre

Photo credit: Ye Old Mitre

Nicely placed in Ely Court, Ye Old Mitre is everything you imagine a pub in London to be: red carpets, stool seating, and a real fireplace. From their award-winning brews to little extras like board games on request, you could easily spend the night here.

Being one of the main craft beer pubs in London, I had to try at least one, and it was the IVO Pale Ale that caught my eye. It didn’t disappoint with its hops and fruity flavors.

Ye Old Mitre – London EC1N 6SJ – Open every Monday to Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and closed every Sunday.

Pubs by Mood: Which One’s Right for You?

The most suitable pub for you will likely depend on your mood and travel companions. I’ve added some of my top recommendations below:

Foodies have to check out the Anchor & Hope and the Bull & Last.
The Gun and The Mayflower both provide incredible views to enjoy with a cold one.
Sip on a selection of beers at the Southampton Arms and The Harp.
Step into the past in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and the George Inn.
Hide away with a quiet pint at a cozy pub in London like the Spaniards Inn or the French House.

Pub Etiquette: A Few Tips for First-Timers

In most British pubs in London, you’ll have to order your drinks and pay at the bar each time you want another round.
Table service isn’t really a thing, unless you’re dining out at an upmarket gastropub.
It’s uncommon for customers to tip at a bar, but a few extra quid is always appreciated.
Many Londoners like to order a ‘half pint,’ which is approximately 284 ml.
Local pubs are known for their lively atmosphere, but when visiting, always be respectful towards regular customers and avoid making too much noise.
Certain establishments, like the French House, play music and don’t allow customers to use their phones, so always check the rules before visiting.

Final Thoughts: The Pub Is the Heart of London

Visiting a pub in London is an experience in itself. Come and find a nice corner, order a few rounds of pints, and enjoy the buzz. No bar is built better than another, it’s more about what you’re after. Whether you fancy a hearty roast, a local ale, or a nice drink by the fireplace with your mates, you’ll find it all here in our London pub guide.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (2023, October 23). Best traditional food in London. Eating Europe Blog. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/london-foods-traditional/ Eating Europe

Eating Europe. (n.d.). London food tours. Eating Europe. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/london/ Eating Europe

The Mayflower. (n.d.). The Mayflower: London Pub. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.mayflowerpub.co.uk/ The Mayflower

Urban Pubs & Bars. (n.d.). Lord Wargrave – Marylebone. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.urbanpubsandbars.com/venues/lord-wargrave urbanpubsandbars.com

The Albion. (2025). About The Albion Pub. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.the-albion.co.uk/ The Albion Pub

The Grenadier. (n.d.). Welcome to The Grenadier. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.grenadierbelgravia.com/ The Grenadier

The Spaniards Inn. (n.d.). Welcome to The Spaniards Inn in London. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.thespaniardshampstead.co.uk/ thespaniardshampstead.co.uk

The Ship. (2025). The Ship – Fuller’s Pub and Restaurant in Soho. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.shipsoho.co.uk/ shipsoho.co.uk

Ye Olde Mitre. (n.d.). Ye Olde Mitre – Historical Fuller’s Pub in Hatton Garden. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.yeoldemitreholborn.co.uk/ yeoldemitreholborn.co.uk