5 Legendary Pubs You Must Visit on Your London City Break

Walking into a proper British pub feels like a warm hug. The smell of malt and old wood hits you and suddenly the chaos of the city melts away. If you are planning a city break in London then you likely already know that pub culture is non-negotiable. It is where the locals go to complain about the weather, celebrate wins and hide from the rain.

But with over 3,500 pubs in the capital it is easy to end up in a tourist trap with overpriced beer and zero atmosphere. To save you from a mediocre pint we have rounded up five of the absolute best spots in town. These places have history, character and drinks that are actually worth the price tag. Before you start your pub crawl make sure to check out the City Guide London for more tips on where to eat and sleep.

One of London’s most iconic pubs, The Churchill Arms

1. The Churchill Arms, Kensington

If you want a pub that takes decoration seriously then you need to see The Churchill Arms. It is impossible to miss because the exterior is completely covered in flowers during the summer and thousands of Christmas trees in the winter. It is widely considered the most Instagrammable pub in London but it is not just a pretty face.

Inside you will find it packed to the rafters with Winston Churchill memorabilia. It was actually the first pub in London to serve Thai food and the pad thai is legendary. It is a quirky and chaotic spot that feels incredibly festive no matter what month you visit.

2. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, Fleet Street

Step back in time at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. Rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire of London in 1666 this place is a labyrinth of dark wood, narrow corridors and open fireplaces. It has served literary giants like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.

There is no phone signal deep inside the cellars which makes it the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy a conversation. The floor is covered in sawdust and the lighting is dim enough to make you feel like you are conspiring to overthrow the government. It is an essential stop for history lovers on a city break in London.

3. The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping

For a drink with a view head to The Prospect of Whitby. It claims to be the oldest riverside pub in London and dates back to 1520. In the past it was a notorious meeting place for smugglers, pirates and criminals.

Today it is a much friendlier spot where you can enjoy a pint of ale on the terrace overlooking the Thames. There is still a replica noose hanging by the river as a nod to its dark history. It is a little further out from the center but the riverside atmosphere is unbeatable on a sunny afternoon.

4. The Harp, Covent Garden

If you care more about the beer than the food then The Harp is your paradise. Located just steps from Trafalgar Square this narrow pub has won countless awards for its cask ales and ciders. It is small and often crowded but that is part of the charm.

The walls are lined with vintage portraits and pump clips. The staff really know their stuff and will happily let you taste a sample before you buy. It is a traditional and no-nonsense boozer that serves arguably the best poured pint in the West End.

5. The Grenadier, Belgravia

Hidden down a quiet mews in one of London's poshest neighborhoods lies The Grenadier. This pub is famous for two things: its beef wellington and its resident ghost. Legend has it that a young soldier was beaten to death here for cheating at cards and his spirit still haunts the cellar.

Visitors have been sticking money to the ceiling for years in an attempt to pay off his debt. The ceiling is now completely covered in banknotes from all over the world. It is a cozy and slightly spooky hidden gem that makes you feel like an insider.

Raise a Glass

London is a city that changes constantly but its pubs remain the constant heartbeat of the capital. Whether you want to drink with ghosts in Belgravia or eat Thai food under a canopy of flowers in Kensington there is a stool waiting for you.

Remember that a great city break in London is about pacing yourself. Take your time, chat to the bar staff and soak up the history. For more advice on how to plan the rest of your trip head over to the City Guide London. Cheers!