Fans of history and beer alike love London for the huge variety of historic pubs. With over 3500 to choose from, you’re never far from the nearest watering hole if you find yourself getting thirsty. Read on to find out the oldest and most interesting – our picks for the 7 Most Historic Pubs in London.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London EC4A 2BP
This pub is considered by many to be the oldest in the city. Actually, the structure we see nowadays is only just over 350 years old. A pub did stand here from 1538 onwards, but had to be rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The current pub dates back to about 1667. Its ramshackle rooms, wooden pew benches and great ales are loved by all.
The Mayflower
The Mayflower, 117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF
Their claim to fame is as “the oldest pub on the Thames”. The site of this pub dates back to 1550, although it has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. It’s been renamed several times too, but the current name commemorates the famous America-bound ship of the 1620s. It’s intensely charming, with riverside views, a wooden jetty and a maritime-themed interior.
Ye Olde Mitre
Ye Olde Mitre, 1 Ely Court, London EC1N 6SJ
One of the older establishments in the city, dating back to 1546. It is said to have been built by a bishop and was even visited by Queen Elizabeth I herself. You can still see the cherry tree that she supposedly danced around alive and well in the garden today. Even finding the pub is exciting, tucked away down a tiny alleyway. Small, cosy and brimming with historic feel, it has been crowned London’s Pub of the Year twice.
The Prospect of Whitby
The Prospect of Whitby, 57 Wapping Wall, London E1W 3SH
This also claims to be “London’s oldest riverside pub”. It may have been remodelled several times, but there has been a pub on the site since 1520. Nowadays, the oldest part that remains is the original 400-year old stone flooring. Thanks to the authentic atmosphere, it’s even been a filming location for various films and television shows. From the beer garden, first floor balcony and terrace, you can enjoy spectacular views over the River Thames.
The George
The George, 75 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH
A mediaeval pub rebuilt after the Southwark fire of 1677, this pub is now London’s last surviving galleried coaching inn. It has been declared a Grade I listed building and is owned by the National Trust, who preserve the structure. It’s well-situated too, just a two minute walk from Borough Market and London Bridge, two immensely popular attractions. Here is the perfect place to stop for a rest and refreshment as people have been doing for over five centuries.
The Spaniards Inn
The Spaniards Inn, Spaniards Rd, London NW3 7JJ
Built in 1585 by two Spanish brothers, this Grade II listed building is one of London’s oldest unchanged pubs. There are many links to it in literature by authors who visited: Dickens, Bram Stoker, the poets Keats and Byron. It has been popular amongst Londoners for centuries – in fact, Dick Turpin the highwayman was a regular here! Some say you can still see his ghost roaming the rooms…
Churchill Arms
Churchill Arms, 119 Kensington Church Street, London W8 7LN
Dating back to 1750, this 250-year old pub is instantly recognisable, dripping with flowers inside and out. People come here to snap selfies for social media just as much as they come for the beer. Its name comes from how it was frequented by the grandparents of Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of Britain during WW2. Its tasty real ales and, surprisingly enough, authentic Thai cuisine are extremely popular with both locals and tourists.
Explore London and more
Thank you for reading this short guide to the 7 Most Historic Pubs in London. No matter where you decide to drink, we hope that you enjoy your visit to this city steeped in history. And if you would like to explore more of England outside of London, check out some of our amazing Day Tours from London. We look forward to seeing you on tour soon!
