What are the best Historical Pub Tours in London?

The United Kingdom is famous for its pubs, and London is often considered to be the epicentre of pub culture. A great way to explore all the unique pubs in London is by taking an historic pub tour. From historic haunts to modern pubs and all stops in between, there are countless places to explore, making for an exciting way to get to know the city’s diverse drinking culture.

So if you’re looking for a unique way to explore the pubs of London, here are some of the best historic pub tours that should definitely be on your to-do list!

The British Pub Tour

The British Pub Tour is a walking tour that takes participants on a journey through time. Featuring stops at many of the city’s oldest, most historical pubs and alehouses, the tour begins at the famous Olde Cheshire Cheese Pub – a pub that dates back to the 16th century! As you continue through the winding alleys of the City, you’ll find pubs like The French House – the world’s smallest pub – and The Lamb & Flag – known to be one of the oldest libraries in Britain at one point in time. On this tour, you’ll get an exclusive look at how pubs were run centuries ago as well as enjoy tales of famous former patrons like Charles Dickens and Graham Irving.

You’ll also have the chance to sample some local ales along the way and learn about brewing methods from the past.

Walking Through History: A Pub Experience of London

Walking Through History: A Pub Experience of London takes participants on a walking journey through some of London’s best-known historic districts, including the City of London and Trafalgar Square. This three-hour experience focusses on the neighbourhoods that have had a strong influence on British history and culture. From grand churches and theatres, to cobblestone streets and markets, this tour offers an intimate look at some of the city’s oldest sites.

In between stops, knowledgeable tour guides will share stories about these famous sites, their significant historical events and their local specialties. The tour also makes stops at some of London’s favourite and most historical pubs, such as The Slug and Lettuce in Covent Garden and The Punch Tavern near Fleet Street. Throughout the experience, you’ll get to sample a few local ales and get a real feel for what it was like to experience London pubs in days gone by.

Historian-Led Pub Tour of East London

This historical pub tour takes participants on a four-hour journey through some of the best pubs in East London. Led by an experienced historian guide, this tour offers a unique view of East End life during the 19th century and beyond. With stops in places like Bethnal Green, Mile End and Whitechapel – all locations with strong links to Jack the Ripper – this tour packs in plenty of history as well as plenty of pub visits.

Along the way, you’ll also have plenty of chances to sample local ales and spirits, as well as learn about some of England’s traditional pubs including The Prospect of Whitby – one of the city’s oldest surviving pubs dating back to 1520. With great stories, good drinks and lots of insight into how pub culture has changed over time, this is a great way to get to know both East London and its many unique pubs.

The Gin Palace Wander Across London

This five-hour Gin Palace Wander Across London is an immersive gin tasting experience that celebrates both gin history and culture in the city. This guided walking tour visits six of London’s best known gin palaces across various neighbourhoods, as participants sample various gins while learning about their origins, flavours and why they are so popular today.

At each stop, knowledgeable guides will share stories about both how gin has evolved since its invention in Holland during the 1600s as well as why gin palaces were so different from the traditional pub culture of London. As well as offering insight into gin production methods, this tour also gives participants a chance to sample drinks from traditional gins to newer creations such as flavoured gins.

At each stop, participants will also enjoy a complimentary food pairing to go with their chosen gins, making for an incredibly well-rounded experience.

Conclusion

When it comes to exploring London’s unique pub culture, there are so many incredible experiences to be had – from exploring some of the city’s most historical pubs to taking part in expert-led gin tastings. Whatever your interests, there’s certainly no shortage of ways for you to dive into iconic British pub culture!

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore historical pubs in London, why not book London’s 2-Hour Historic Pub Tour, which takes participants on a two-hour journey through some of London’s oldest pubs? This special tour offers anecdotes about famous former patrons such as Charles Dickens as well as samples of local beers and ales, making it an experience that beer lovers won’t want to miss!