Ah, London – the city where the pubs are as abundant as the rain and almost as essential. If you’re still wondering where to find the best pubs in London, fret not. Whether you’re a hop enthusiast or someone who just wants to pretend they’re a pub connoisseur, the city’s got you covered.
There are around 3,500 pubs in this fair city. That’s right, 3,500! Sure, it’s about 25 percent fewer than two decades ago – but don’t let that throw you off. It’s still a staggering number, ensuring that you’ll find a place to meet your mates, impress a date, or simply have a cheeky pint alone while contemplating life’s biggest mysteries.
In short, if you’re on a quest for the best pubs in London, you’re in luck. Our top 9 picks are here to help you navigate this glorious maze of pints and pretzels. So, make ours a pint and get ready for a pub crawl like no other. Cheers to the best pubs in London – where the drinks are cold, the company is warm, and the banter is as dry as your sense of humor!
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Boozer’s Guide: Top 9 Best Pubs in London to Quench Your Thirst
Skehans: The Legendary Local Gem Among the Best Pubs in London
Skehans is a beloved gem nestled in South London, blending tradition, community, and a dash of eclectic charm. Among the best pubs in London, Skehans boasts a cozy front bar with darts and a pool table, while the wood-burning stove keeps things toasty during winter.
Music lovers are treated to live performances six days a week, while an outdoor smoking area and a stunning hidden garden provide the perfect escape. Hungry? Chai’s Garden Thai restaurant offers authentic dishes daily from 5-9:30 PM, with Madam Chai delighting patrons for over two decades. Sundays are all about Chico’s freshly carved, hearty roasts, complete with homemade Yorkshire puddings. And for burger enthusiasts, Tuesday nights serve up handcrafted burgers for just £6.50. Whether you’re in for a meal or simply a pint, Skehans welcomes everyone with open arms and a vibrant community spirit.
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The Southampton Arms: A Classic Among the Best Pubs in London
Nestled perfectly for your pre- or post-Hampstead Heath ramble, The Southampton Arms stands as a proud contender among the best pubs in London. Picture this: a dimly lit, traditional pub where the atmosphere is so cozy, it feels like being wrapped in a warm, slightly worn-out blanket.
Here, you might just witness a chap who looks like your grandad—but with a bit more character—popping up to play the battered old piano. As he belts out a heart-wrenching ballad, you’ll find yourself so moved that you might start weeping into your obscure IPA and accidentally drop your pork bap. It’s that kind of emotional rollercoaster, and it’s exactly what makes The Southampton Arms one of the best pubs in London.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a pub where sentimental piano tunes and heartfelt moments blend seamlessly with your craft beer and hearty grub, look no further. The Southampton Arms delivers a classic pub experience that’ll have you questioning why you’d ever go anywhere else among the best pubs in London.
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The Coach & Horses: Soho’s Timeless Jewel
Welcome to The Coach & Horses, the legendary Soho pub that deserves its spot among the best pubs in London. This iconic watering hole was a hotspot in the 1970s and 1980s, attracting a fabulous mix of theatre folks and the infamous journalist Jeffrey Bernard, who even got his own play, “Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell,” thanks to the legendary Peter O’Toole.
The walls of The Coach & Horses are practically wallpapered with scribbled tributes to Bernard, but don’t let that fool you into thinking this pub is stuck in the past. With a rotating lineup of trendy guest ales and heavy metal-worthy merch, it’s clear that this spot knows how to keep things current. Packed to the rafters with patrons, you’ll quickly see why this classic gem is still a must-visit among the best pubs in London.
The Duke: A Retro Wonderland Among the Best Pubs in London
Step into The Duke, a pub that’s like a page ripped from a Patrick Hamilton novel, and find yourself in a 1930s timewarp. With art deco mirrors and mahogany booths, this spot is so retro, you’ll half expect to see yourself in a scene from the 90s sitcom “Goodnight Sweetheart.” It’s a jolly little detour among the best pubs in London, where sipping a cocktail feels like participating in a historical drama. So, if you fancy a dash of nostalgia with your pint, The Duke is your best bet among the best pubs in London. Bottoms up!
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The Chesham Arms: Hackney’s Crispy Haven Among the Best Pubs in London
Welcome to The Chesham Arms, a delightful slice of Hackney that’s firmly in the running for the best pubs in London—if only for its unbeatable crisp selection. Whether you’re craving Scampi Fries, Bacon Fries, or the entire spectrum of Monster Munch, this pub has got your snack cravings covered. Nik Naks, pork scratchings, and Snyder’s Jalapeno Pretzel Pieces round out the selection. And if that’s not enough, just dial for a Yard Sale pizza and enjoy a true Hackney hipster feast.
The Tavern On The Hill: From Tough Pub to Best Pubs in London
Once Britain’s toughest pub—yes, Channel 5 even made a show about it—The Tavern On The Hill in Walthamstow has undergone a serene transformation under the care of Wild Card Brewery. Now firmly planted among the best pubs in London, it’s your ultimate neighborhood hangout. Picture this: stellar Sunday roasts, a piano waiting for your inner musician, and a dartboard that’s as welcoming as the staff. It’s where you can sip a pint and reflect on how this gem evolved from a rough-and-tumble spot to one of the best pubs in London.
The Ivy House: Date Night Done Right at One of the Best Pubs in London
The Ivy House, a true London gem, blends history, charm, and community spirit, earning its place among the best pubs in London. Known for its rich musical past—hosting legends like Joe Strummer and Jeff Beck—the pub still thrives as a vibrant cultural hub. Saved from demolition in 2013, it became the first co-operatively owned pub in London, securing its status as an Asset of Community Value. Entertainment is plentiful, with pub quizzes on Wednesdays, comedy and theatre on Thursdays, and live music on Fridays.
Beer lovers will revel in nine craft taps featuring local brews like Villages and Kernel, while cask ale enthusiasts enjoy ever-changing options. The Ivy House also caters to gluten-free and alcohol-free drinkers, alongside a carefully curated wine list and freshly made cocktails. Their kitchen delights with authentic Italian pizzas, including vegan and gluten-free options, plus a classic Sunday roast menu. It’s a historic date night done right, every time.
Cross Keys: The Best Pubs in London for a Pint, a Bite, and a Rock ‘n’ Roll Twist
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best pubs in London, the Cross Keys is your golden ticket. Nestled in Covent Garden, this Victorian gem has been serving up pints since the 1840s, and it’s still rocking hard today. Its eye-catching exterior, decked out with floral baskets in summer, and interior filled with quirky knick-knacks—like copper kettles, musical instruments, and even a diving helmet—will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a vintage treasure chest.
Inside, the walls are plastered with everything from Beatles memorabilia (yes, there’s a bust of John Lennon) to a napkin signed by Elvis Presley—because who doesn’t want to drink where The King once signed his name? The menu serves up classic pub grub that pairs perfectly with their impressive selection of local and international beers.
The Barley Mow: Where Mayfair Meets the Best Pubs in London
If you’re wandering through Mayfair and craving one of the best pubs in London, look no further than The Barley Mow. Recently given a chic facelift by the Cubitt House Group, this pub combines high ceilings with luxurious decor while keeping its historic charm. It’s like a posh makeover with vintage soul. Head upstairs for top-notch dining, thanks to chef director Ben Tish, where you can sip your pint and pretend you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. The Barley Mow—proof that even the best pubs in London can have a bit of glitz and gourmet flair!
