Exploring the Literary Pubs of London: A Guide to Discovering The City’s Must-See Literary Landmarks

London has long been regarded as one of the meccas of literature and culture in the world. From the old glitterati of writers, actors, and singers who used to congregate in the city’s taverns back in the Edwardian period, today’s visitors to London can still experience the same literary heritage by exploring its literary pubs. Here’s a look at where to find some of the most famous historic watering holes as well as a few unexpected gems.

The British Museum Tavern

One of London’s best-known literary pubs is The British Museum Tavern, located just a few minutes walk from the actual museum itself. Situated in Bloomsbury, the tavern was built back in 1723 and has since been frequented by luminaries of the literary world, such as Charles Dickens, William Hazlitt, George Orwell and even H.G. Wells on occasion.

The pub has a long history in the annals of literature, serving as a meeting place for not only writers, but also societies, student groups and more. While it’s no longer hosting 19th Century soirees, patrons can still enjoy a range of real ales, lagers and ciders in the same traditional surroundings.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Another literary pub of note is Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, located on Fleet Street. Built in 1538 and regularly frequented by some of England’s most well-known writers over the centuries, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is still standing strong as one of London’s oldest historic pubs. It is most closely associated with Charles Dickens who used to hold writer’s meetings here during its peak years in the 19th Century.

Since then, parts of the pub have been preserved and it can still provide visitors with a glimpse into this rich literary past. The atmosphere within is one that is heavily steeped in history and its timber-clad bar is still filled with characters of varying articulations.

The George Inn

Built in 1677, the George Inn is another of London’s illustrious literary pubs and a traditional stopping place for ill-fated poet John Keats as he passed by en route to his home from his travels abroad. Used largely as a meeting place for freelancers, novelists and journalists, over the years many famous writers have frequented the George Inn, including J.M Barrie, H.G Wells and even Mark Twain who is said to have conducted an interview here in 1908.

A grade II listed building, much of this pub has been restored to its full former glory, although part of it still remains untouched and an authentic look at former centuries can be experienced at first hand by patrons. Enjoy real ales, ciders and craft beers while sat at its original bar which dates back hundreds of years ago.

The Porterhouse

London is home to many lively bars, pubs and taverns and amongst them there are also a few hidden gems which often go missed by the casual tourist. One such gem is The Porterhouse, located on Stoney Street near Borough Market in the Southwark area of London.

This bright and vibrant bar is filled with character and its upstairs area is frequently used as a reading lounge during events such as Poetry Unplugged – making it an ideal spot for budding writers or those visiting for a sightseeing spree as well. Fiction hounds can also try out their luck at Tootie’s Literary Quiz Nights, plus enjoy a range of real ales and craft beers brewed locally by BrewDog.

The Viator Experience

Exploring London’s historic sites can be a great way to get a more authentic experience in this bustling city. A great way to do so is by joining a guided tour which can take visitors to some of the city’s more illustrious literary sites and past watering holes – including the pubs featured in this article.

The perfect choice for book lovers is London Literary Pub Crawl and Tavern Tour, an engaging tour led by professional guides who will take you on a journey through some of London’s most iconic taverns and backstreets, including The British Museum Tavern, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and The George Inn. Each tour stops off at several historic landmarks along the way before finally winding up at one of London’s typical boozers late at night while enjoying a nightcap along with tales of the city’s greatest literary luminaries.

The Prosecco & Poetry Bus Tour

Those looking for an even more luxurious experience should definitely try out The Prosecco & Poetry Bus Tour which picks you up from Oxford Street on a double-decker bus before heading out onto the streets of London for an immersive 5-hour journey into the city’s unique culture and literature composition via open-mic poetry reading marathons, exclusive discounts for local eateries and drinks tastings conducted by professional mixologists. You will also have access to other exciting activities along the way such as private cabaret shows and after-show parties at various hotspots across town which are sure to bring in a new dimension to your trip – all from just £40 per person!

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for traditional ales in some quaint little taverns steeped with culture or wish to embark on an immersive journey through London’s literary landscape via guided tours there are plenty of options available for all types of visitors who wish to get their fill of the city’s rich literary heritage. From exploring historic buildings like the British Museum Tavern to participating in innovative activities such as the Prosecco & Poetry Bus Tours there are plenty of ways to find something that aligns with your desired experience while in London – just pick one that suits you best and prepare to be amazed! For an even more captivating experience why not opt for London Literary Pub Crawl and Tavern Tour, an entertaining walk which takes in pubs which were frequented by some of England’s most beloved authors and poets – plus there’s plenty of fine ales, beers and ciders to sample along the way as well!