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Our Guide to Iconic London Pubs
London’s Iconic Pubs - Our Top 5 by Area
Everyone loves an iconic London pub. From hidden historic locals to grand Victorian taverns, these pubs capture the true spirit of the city. Inspired by the research and expertise of fellow Canadian Doug Harper, co-author of For the Love of London Pubs, we’ve curated the Top 5 pubs across London’s most popular areas - making it easy to find a great pint wherever you’re exploring.
Belgravia
Elegant streets hide some of London’s most characterful pubs.
Top 5 pubs
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The Grenadier – Famous hidden mews pub with military history and legendary tales.
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The Star Tavern – Tiny, historic pub known for its colourful past and loyal locals.
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The Horse & Groom – Intimate, friendly pub with a traditional feel.
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The Wilton Arms – Refined yet relaxed pub with excellent food.
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The Alfred Tennyson – Stylish gastropub with classic pub charm.
Bloomsbury
Literary London meets classic Victorian pub interiors.
Top 5 pubs
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The Lamb – Iconic Victorian pub with snob screens and historic interiors.
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The Queen’s Larder – Warm, intimate pub with deep local roots.
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Museum Tavern – Traditional pub opposite the British Museum.
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The Enterprise – Spacious pub with strong literary associations.
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The Marquis Cornwallis – Elegant corner pub popular with students and locals alike.
Borough & Bankside
Historic pubs clustered near the Thames and Borough Market.
Top 5 pubs
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The George Inn – London’s last surviving galleried coaching inn.
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The Anchor – Riverside pub with views across the Thames to St Paul’s.
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The Market Porter – Lively, traditional market pub.
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The Rake – Small but influential craft beer pub.
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The Wheatsheaf – Historic pub with literary connections and cozy rooms.
The City of London (Square Mile)
Ancient streets and grand Victorian pub buildings.
Top 5 pubs
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The Jamaica Wine House – On the site of London’s first coffee house.
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The Counting House – Former bank with striking Victorian interiors.
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The Lamb Tavern (Leadenhall Market) – Beautifully preserved historic pub.
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Ye Olde Mitre – Hidden, historic pub with fascinating legends.
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The Old Doctor Butler’s Head – Traditional City pub popular with workers.
Covent Garden
Theatreland pubs steeped in performance history.
Top 5 pubs
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The Lamb & Flag – One of London’s oldest pubs with strong theatrical ties.
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The Harp – Small, much-loved pub known for its beer selection.
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The Salisbury – Ornate Victorian pub with etched glass and mirrors.
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The Porterhouse – Large, multi-level pub good for groups.
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The Coal Hole – Compact pub with music and theatre connections.
Soho
Top 5 pubs
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The French House – Legendary pub for writers, artists, and musicians.
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The Coach & Horses – Traditional Soho local with strong character.
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The Toucan – Small Irish pub famed for Guinness.
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The Pillars of Hercules – Classic Soho boozer with a friendly crowd.
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The Blue Posts (Berwick Street) – Atmospheric pub in the heart of Soho.
Fleet Street, Temple & Chancery Lane
Law, journalism, and some of London’s most historic and atmospheric pubs.
Top 5 pubs
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Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese - Atmospheric and historic pub rebuilt after the Great Fire of London; linked to writers and journalists for centuries.
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The Seven Stars (Chancery Lane) - One of London’s oldest continuously operating pubs, tucked away near the Royal Courts of Justice; famously unpretentious and much loved by locals.
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The Black Friar - One of London’s most visually stunning pubs, featuring exceptional Art Nouveau and Arts & Crafts interiors; a true architectural gem.
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The Old Bank of England - Grand former Victorian bank transformed into a pub, rich in history and decorative detail.
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The Punch Tavern - Classic Fleet Street pub with deep ties to Britain’s newspaper industry and a lively traditional atmosphere.
Credit & Acknowledgement
With thanks and credit to fellow Canadian Doug Harper and Vic Norman, authors of For the Love of London Pubs: A Visitor’s Guide to London’s Remarkable Pubs. You can buy this guide to pub nirvana on Amazon
