London Pub Crawl Guide

London nightlife is amazing and exploring its bars and pubs is an exciting way to spend a night out. Whether you are looking for a traditional ale house, a lively cocktail bar, or a cool underground jazz club, London has something for everyone. A great way to take in some of the best of the city’s nightlife is to go on a pub crawl.

London has more than a thousand pubs, so we have created this guide to help you create the perfect pub crawl. From south of the river to north, east to west and everything in between, these are the hotspots that you need to check out. To make your life easier and make sure you don’t miss any of the best spots, here is our London pub crawl guide!

The South Bank

The South Bank is home to some of London’s most iconic nightlife spots. It’s a perfect place to start or end your pub crawl, with plenty of bars, clubs and pubs within walking distance of each other.

The Anchor Bank

This riverside pub is a must-see for any pub crawl. With its imposing location beneath London Bridge, The Anchor Bank is a great place to take in the city’s stunning views while enjoying one of their many beers on tap. The friendly atmosphere and traditional pub décor makes it a great spot to gather before or after exploring the various bars on the South Bank. Its website URL is www.anchoronline.co.uk.

My opinion: The Anchor Bank is definitely worth a visit when in London, it’s the ideal location for stunning views and plenty of beers on tap.

The Horse and Stables

This establishment is very popular with both locals and visitors alike and serves up an impressive selection of unique craft beers from both local and international brewers. With its lively atmosphere and great ales, The Horse and Stables is perfect for anyone looking to find a place to socialize and enjoy some fine brews. Its website URL is horseandstables.com.

My opinion: I’ve been here once before and I think it’s a great spot for craft beer enthusiasts!

The Three Stags

A traditional pub tucked away in an alley off the river, The Three Stags has been open since the 1700s and is one of the oldest pubs in Britain. As well as offering classic pub grub, guests can enjoy more than 50 different wines, naturally brewed ales, and a selection of spirits. Its website URL is www.thethreestagskennington.com.

My opinion: This pub definitely has plenty of character and makes an interesting stop on any pub crawl!

The East End

The East End of London has some of the city’s best pubs and it’s easy to see why – with its buzzing atmosphere, eclectic bars, and great range of beers on offer. Make sure to check out these popular spots when you’re exploring the area:

The Ten Bells

This iconic pub has been around since 1752 and gained notoriety as the haunt of Jack The Ripper in the 19th century. Inside, you’ll find an amazing selection of real ales and lagers while being surrounded by Victorian-era décor. Its website URL is www.tenbellspub.com.

My opinion: I’m not a fan of pubs that are too historic, so this place would be a bit too much for me personally! Still, for those who enjoy a bit of history, it’s a must-visit spot on any East End pub crawl.

The Stray Cat

Popular with locals, this laid-back pub is perfect for anyone who is looking for a relaxed evening out without any pretense or pomp. With an extensive drinks selection – including some up-and-coming craft beers – and occasional live music events, The Stray Cat is ideal for anyone wanting to take it easy in style. Its website URL is www.thestraycatse16.com.

My opinion: This is a great spot if you’re looking for somewhere to hang out with friends without feeling overwhelmed by noise or crowds.

The Golden Heart

This old-fashioned pub is one of the most popular nightspots in East London and it’s easy to see why; its unique atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy some traditional ales alongside some live jazz music from the house band. Its website URL is www.goldenheartpub.co.uk.

My opinion: This place has an amazing atmosphere if you’re looking for a bit more than just drinks. I would definitely recommend visiting if you have time on your East End pub crawl!

The City

The City area of London has plenty of traditional pubs where you can grab a pint after a long day at work or sightseeing. Here are some of the best places to check out when you’re exploring this part of the city:

Ye Olde London

This traditional pub offers an extensive range of real ales alongside some classic British dishes – think fish and chips, bangers and mash, burgers, etc – making it an ideal spot for anyone looking for an authentic British pub dining experience. Its website URL is www.yeoldelondonpub.co.uk.

My opinion: This place definitely offers some delicious traditional dishes and great ales if you’re after something more than just drinks!

The Old Red Lion

This atmospheric pub dates back to the early 16th century and is one of London’s oldest pubs that still stands today. With its friendly atmosphere and wide selection of real ales and ciders on offer, The Old Red Lion is definitely worth checking out when exploring the area – especially if you’re a history buff! Its website URL is www.oldredlionpub-eastcheap.co.uk.

My opinion: This pub has great character, I would definitely visit if I were in the area!

The West End

The West End is home to some of London’s most famous clubs and bars as well as some fantastic pubs – so make sure to check them out when you’re exploring! Here are our top picks:

The Carpenter’s Arms

This local gem dates back centuries and offers an unrivalled selection of locally brewed ales with its traditional British décor making it a great spot for enjoying an authentic English pub experience with some delicious ales on tap! Its website URL is www.carpentersarmslateatnightpubhackneywick.com.

My opinion: I would definitely recommend this place if you’re looking for somewhere with traditional décor and a selection of local ales on tap!

The Tapping Room

This quirky establishment is located in the heart of London’s Theatreland district and combines classic and modern styles – with its rich wood décor echoing its British heritage while more modern touches give it a contemporary feel that fits with its environs perfectly! Its website URL is tappingroomlondonbridge.com.

My opinion: I love this place – it’s so unique and has an amazing atmosphere that makes it perfect for taking a break from sightseeing!

The Old Monk

This atmospheric bar offers an impressive selection of beers as well as some great music events – making it ideal for anyone looking to find somewhere with a lively atmosphere and plenty to do! Its website URL is http://theoldmonklondonbridge.co.uk/tk.

My opinion: This place has all you could want from a night out, especially if you want to hear some good music while having a few drinks!