Mr. Sunny’s Top 15 Best London Pubs: Must-Visit Spots for History & Beer
You could say my love affair with beer and London pubs started when I was just two weeks old. My parents had me with them at The Spaniards Inn (which you’ll find at #1 on this list!) when one of their friends accidentally spilled a pint all over me. My family has referred to that moment as my official “christening” ever since.
So, if you’re coming to London, you have to go to a pub. But with thousands of options, where do you start? My name is Mr. Sunny and after living and drinking my way through this city for years, I’m giving you my personal list of the top 15 pubs you must visit.
This list isn’t just about a good pint; it’s about history, atmosphere, great food and info about London you won’t find in a regular guide. Whether you’re looking for a hidden alleyway boozer or a riverside classic, this London pubs list is one to save.
I’ve included a photo of our rescue dog, Jessie. She’s a little timid and nervous but she loves going to the pub with us too!
The Classics: History and Tradition
These pubs are the quintessential London pub experience, steeped in history and often feature a memorable fact.
| London Pub | Location/Vibe | The Mr Sunny Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Spaniards Inn | Hampstead (Near Kenwood House & Hampstead Heath) | A proper old pub and inn with a lovely garden, great food and ale. Legend has it the highwayman Dick Turpin used to frequent this spot and it’s possibly haunted. |
| 2. Ye Olde Mitre | Holborn (Hidden down a tiny alley) | A wonderfully hidden gem that technically isn’t in London (it’s in the liberties of the Bishop of Ely). Look for it in the Guy Ritchie film Snatch. |
| 3. The Lamb and Flag | Covent Garden | A historic Fuller’s pub known for its traditional atmosphere in the heart of the theatre district. |
| 4. The Prospect of Whitby | Wapping (Riverside) | London’s oldest riverside pub, dating back to 1520. Fantastic views of the Thames. |
| 5. The Mayflower | Rotherhithe (Riverside) | A classic riverside pub that features good views and bar food. It was named after the famous ship that sailed to the New World. |
Local Favourites & London Pubs for Food
These pubs are loved by Londoners for their atmosphere, lovely food and traditional genuine feel. And, if you’re here for the first time, you’ll want to read our Tips for Visiting London Pubs so you know how to order a pint like a local!
| London Pub | Location/Vibe | The Mr Sunny Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 6. The Guinea Grill | Mayfair | A must-visit for serious food lovers. This pub is famous among Londoners for its meats, pies and incredible Sunday Roast. |
| 7. The Devonshire | Soho | Always busy for a good reason. Known for its amazing food, great bar snacks and serving up a lovely pint of Guinness |
| 8. The Churchill Arms | Kensington | You cannot miss the exterior! It’s famous for its extravagant floral displays in summer and hundreds of Christmas trees in winter. It also serves excellent, mid-range Thai food. |
| 9. The Holly Bush | Hampstead (tucked away on a back street) | A local favourite Fuller’s pub that is tucked away, offering a truly traditional setting with reliably good food. |
| 10. The Surprise | Chelsea | While it’s become more of a celebrated gastropub, it’s worth the visit. It was affectionately known as my “childhood local” (my dad’s actual local) and is a must-see in Chelsea. |
Charm & Hidden Secrets
These are London pubs that offer a story or a fun surprise you won’t forget. We do have quite a few more in the Best Hidden Pubs in London too.
| London Pub | Location/Vibe | The Mr Sunny Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 11. The Ship Tavern | Holborn (hidden in an alley) | This lovely, independently owned pub is a true hideaway. Be sure to mind your head when heading to the toilet. The ceiling is low! Their sausage rolls and Scotch eggs are great. Eat at the restaurant upstairs for a real treat. |
| 12. The Pride of Spitafields | Spitafields | This simple, traditional spot is a proper “classic battle cruiser”. That’s Cockney slang for a traditional boozer. It’s perfect for a simple pint. |
| 13. Lore of the Land | Fitzrovia | Owned by director Guy Ritchie (yes, again!), this spot is great for food and atmosphere. If you want a famous experience, book your Sunday lunch way ahead of time! |
| 14. The Grenadier | Belgravia | Located down a mews in Belgravia, this pub has a military background. Look up. There’s money taped to the ceiling to pay off an old debt to a ghost! Excellent food, too. |
Plan Your Own Local Pub Crawl
These 14 London pubs offer a true taste of history, food and culture. Use this list to create your own perfect pub crawl. Or pick one near an iconic attraction to escape the crowds for an authentic British experience.
In our 4-day Bucket List Travel Planner I give an itinerary of pubs to follow after visiting London attractions that will keep you drinking like a Londoner.
And, if you’re ready to dive deeper into the London food scene, the Mrs and I have done all the research for you!
We created the Insider’s Guide to London Restaurants. It has our top recommendations on everything from street food to fine dining.
London Bucket List Travel Planner
- Solves the issue of what to plan each day
- Pairs 4 major London attractions with daily itineraries
- Offers 9 different travel styles (foodie, royal fans, mother-daughter trips & more!)
- Pairs with 1:1 Trip Consultation for super savings!
Worried about where to eat in London?
You just don’t know where to go!
Have expert suggestions in our Insider’s Guide to London Restaurants.
Includes pinned Google Maps & organised by:
- Neighbourhood
- Cuisines
- ‘Best of’ lists
Want More Ideas?
Looking for more weekly tips and recommendations? Since I’m always out testing new spots and take my research seriously! That’s why I left one pub off the list of 15.
I believe in one for the road. So, I want you to add your must visit London pubs in the comments.
I send out a weekly pub recommendation in my Mrs’ weekly email, The Sunny News. She includes the latest news about London life and things to do straight to your inbox. Subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s Pub of the Week!
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