Top Pub Crawls for Soaking in London’s Libations
Ah, London—the city of red buses, historical sights, and more pubs than you can shake a stick at. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, experiencing the London pub scene is an absolute must. But why stop at one pub when you can hop from one iconic watering hole to the next? Enter the exhilarating rite of passage known as the pub crawl. From the bustling boroughs of Soho and Covent Garden to the iconic banks of the River Thames, here are the best pub crawls in London to tackle with enthusiasm (and maybe a Gatorade, just in case).
A SoHo Sociale
If you’re looking for a crawl that’s as historic as it is spirited, Soho is your spot. Start your adventure at The John Snow, named after the doctor who ended the cholera outbreak (not the guy from Game of Thrones). Raise a pint in his honour before moving on to The French House, a legendary venue that has seen the likes of Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon darken its doors.
Next on your agenda, stumble into The Dog and Duck, famed for its Victorian decor and vibrant atmosphere. Finally, saunter over to The Blue Posts, which was reinvented in 2017, and grab a posh cocktail to round off your crawl with some swanky flair.
Crawl with a Crown in Covent Garden
Covent Garden offers a delightful mash-up of theatrical charm and classic British pubs. Kick it all off at The Lamb & Flag, known to be a favourite of Charles Dickens. Soak in its genuine old-world charm before ambling down to The Harp, a charming little pub with a focus on real ale and cider that could comfortably satisfy any discerning palate.
Continue the escapade at The Nag’s Head, a treasure trove of local anecdotes and uplifting vibes. Finish at The Porterhouse, which offers a spectacular selection of in-house brews and echoes of the Emerald Isle. Don’t forget: pace yourself, because as they say around here, “Mind the gap”—or in this case, the fall.
Ravishing Riverside Crawl
You can’t talk about the best pub crawls in London without including a jaunt along the Thames. Begin your riverside revelry at The Mayflower in Rotherhithe, a whimsical nautical-themed pub that dates back to 1620. Enjoy the views of the water and imagine yourself as a modern-day explorer—armchair, of course.
Mosey along the river to The Anchor in Bankside, where you’ll catch a comedic mix of locals and tourists chanting “cheers!” in a multitude of accents. Keep the panoramic views coming by heading to The Founders Arms. Offering a central location and enviable views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, you’ll want to have your Instagram ready for this one.
The East London Hipster Hop
All hail to Shoreditch, where a pub crawl can be as hip as the area is hipster. Start your excursion in style at The Ten Bells on Commercial Street, a Jack the Ripper haunt that’s perfect for some light-hearted yet grisly banter. Follow that with a trip to The Old Blue Last, where live music abounds and ale flows more freely than conspiracy theories at a festival.
Eat—and drink—your heart out at The Water Poet, complete with a beer garden worthy of an extended stay. To cap off this fashionable romp, finish at The Owl and the Pussycat because who wouldn’t want to sip a stellar craft beer in rhyme-worthy surroundings?
Final Thoughts on Frothy Adventures
Whether you’re seeking a casual pint or a new life’s story, pub crawls serve as a portal to some of the most iconic pubs and bars in london. Remember to wear comfy shoes, bring cash for the bartenders who magically know what you drink before you order it, and keep that all-important ‘cheers!’ ready. London’s finest pubs await, so knock back a tipple or two and watch the history, culture, and camaraderie of these timeless venues unfold.