The Best Hidden Pubs in London: Secret Spots Locals Love
It feels like pubs in London are on every corner and easy to find, but some of the best are hidden. You’ll find them down passages, wedged behind theatres or buried in backstreets you’d never wander down as a tourist.
And they’re exactly where locals go when we want a pint without the chaos of Oxford Circus or a spot that feels more secret society than selfie central.
Each of the pubs below has been a “Pub of the Week” in our Sunny News email. Mr Sunny’s extensive pub knowledge and thorough research as an English man born in London means he thrives on the spots off the high street.
This list of hidden pubs in London includes historic haunts, jukebox gems and the kind of stories you only hear after the second round. There’s even a festive video about what pubs in London are like during the holidays for you. And if you’re looking to plan your own pub crawl- The London Travel Planner includes three hand picked exclusive itineraries crafted by Mr Sunny himself (more about that later).
The Nell Gwynne
Location: 1–2 Bull Inn Court, WC2R 0NP (just off the Strand)
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden or Charing Cross
Atmosphere
This one’s proper old school. It’s dim, tiny and packed with after-work locals who know exactly how to angle themselves at the bar. Inside it’s all dark wood and history, with low lighting and even lower ceilings. When it’s full (which is often), regulars spill out onto the alley with pints in hand like it’s an unspoken ritual.
what makes it special
Nell Gwynne was Charles II’s scandalous mistress and an actress at Drury Lane. Today, the pub named after her is a Young’s classic. It’s charming, a bit cheeky and proud of its heritage. This London pub has serious character. You’ll find a top-tier jukebox, fantastic British cheeses and boozy vibes. This is no gastropub, just proper snacks and proper drinks.
Why we love it
It’s our go-to escape when Covent Garden is swarming with tourists. Plus, if you’ve watched enough of our videos on social media, you know that we adore Young’s pubs.
Ye Olde Mitre
Location: 1 Ely Court, EC1N 6SJ
Nearest Tube: Chancery Lane or Farringdon
atmosphere
This London pub feels like you’ve stepped back in time. This is partly because you almost have. Tucked into a tiny courtyard, it’s quiet, cosy and impossible to stumble upon by accident.
what makes it special
Built in 1546, it was once the pub for the Bishop of Ely’s servants. Queen Elizabeth I supposedly danced around a cherry tree out front. Inside? Real ales, wood-panelled walls and a firm “no nonsense” vibe. It’s a Fuller’s pub, so expect great quality. But it’s closed Sundays and doesn’t serve food on weekends.
why we love it
It’s got proper London history. It’s the kind that predates even the Great Fire. Plus, it made a cameo in Snatch and The Deep Blue Sea.
Walker’s of Whitehall
Location: 15 Craig’s Ct, SW1A 2DD
Nearest Tube: Embankment or Charing Cross
atmosphere
A little twist on pub culture- this one is a little more stylish than backstreet boozer, but it’s still full of character. It’s also MUCH bigger than it looks from the outside.
what makes it special
Housed in a former bank from the 1600s, this pub has vaulted ceilings, a gated wine cellar and a menu that goes far beyond crisps. Think fish and chips, classic pies and a great Sunday roast. It’s hidden just off Whitehall, a quick walk from Trafalgar Square
Why we love it
It’s where we go when we want food and atmosphere, without elbowing tourists. Ideal for groups or anyone who wants to feel like they’ve discovered something elevated and out of the way.
The Grenadier
Location: 18 Wilton Row, SW1X 7NR
Nearest Tube: Hyde Park Corner
atmosphere
Rumoured to be haunted- and honestly, it feels like it. Narrow streets, low ceilings and the kind of place you whisper in without realising.
what makes it special
Legend says a soldier named Cedric was beaten to death for cheating at cards and his ghost still haunts the pub. People tape money to the ceiling to pay his debt. It’s eerie and charming all at once. It was even a bit of a mystery to Mr Sunny, despite being born here, and that says a lot.
Why we love it
It’s the ultimate test of pub-sniffing skill. Hidden down a posh mews in Belgravia, it’s not easy to find, but that’s what makes it magical.
Bradley’s Spanish Bar
Location: 42–44 Hanway Street, W1T 1UT
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road
atmosphere
Lively, loud and proud of it. Tiny upstairs, tinier downstairs and always full of energy.
what makes it special
The name suggests tapas and sangria, but don’t be fooled. This is a pub. No food, just crisps and nuts. But it’s home to an old-school jukebox (NSM Prestige II) and an eclectic music selection from 20,000+ singles. It was out of order when I visited, because it’s also a bit temperamental.
Why we love it
It breaks every expectation and does it with flair. Unapologetically divey, genuinely fun.
Bonus: What London Pubs are Like at Christmas
Pubs in London are magical in December. You’ll find fairy lights, mulled wine, decorated Christmas trees and lovely fires. If you’re planning a London Christmas trip, don’t miss our festive video below that shows exactly what to expect.
Pubs in London: Plan Your Own Pub Crawl
Love the idea of discovering London’s best pubs, without leaving it to chance? Mr Sunny’s custom pub crawls are part of the London Travel Planner. It’s for people who want to save time and travel smarter.
Inside it you’ll find a 100+ page digital guide packed with information about London shopping, afternoon teas, British culture, airports, hotel suggestions and more. There’s links to 110+ videos by topic like the ones featured in this Hidden Pubs in London article.
You’ll get:
- 3-day London itinerary
- Pub crawls for different areas
- Local-approved tips (from Mr Sunny himself, and me of course!)
Save Time! Travel Smarter!
Get our London Travel Planners to visit London like a Londoner!
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Last two times visiting we visited the Cheshire Cheese Pub. From what I know if you dont know this is a pub you will miss it. there is a sign on the street but the pub is down an alley way. My first time there the manager took our group on a little tour and showed us the private room with the original sign in books dating over a hundred years back! It is also said to be haunted by a few ghosts. It is huge inside as it is about 4 or 6 floors, depending if your the type that counts basements. LOVE IT