Intro: Why a London Pub Crawl’s a Right Laugh
Cor blimey, mate! If you ain’t never been on a London pub crawl, you’re missin’ out on one of life’s little treasures. Picture this: a night filled with laughter, pints, and a bit of banter as you hop from one historic boozer to the next. It’s the perfect way to soak up the local culture, meet some right characters, and have a proper knees-up. Whether you’re a local geezer or just visitin’, a pub crawl through the best pubs in London is a must-do. So, grab your mates, lace up your trainers, and let’s get crackin’!
1. The Old Bell: Start with a Pint and a Chat
First stop on our London pub crawl is The Old Bell. It’s the perfect place to kick off the night with a pint and a chinwag. This place has been around since the 17th century, so you know it’s got a bit of history. The atmosphere’s as warm as a cuppa on a rainy day, and the locals are always up for a natter. You might even get a cheeky tip on the footie!
2. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: History and Ale, Guv’nor
Next up, we head to Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. This pub’s older than your nan’s Sunday roast, rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. It’s a proper slice of history with its dark wood interiors and low ceilings. Grab yourself a pint of ale, and let the stories of old London town wash over you. It’s like stepping back in time, innit?
3. The Lamb & Flag: A Geezer’s Favourite
The Lamb & Flag is a geezer’s favourite, tucked away in Covent Garden. Known as the “Bucket of Blood” back in the day, it’s got a bit of a cheeky reputation. But don’t let that put you off; it’s all part of the charm. The vibe’s lively, and the beer’s top-notch. Perfect for a bit of rabbitin’ on with your mates.
4. The Spaniards Inn: Tales and Tipples
As we make our way to Hampstead, The Spaniards Inn awaits. This pub’s got more tales than your grandad at Christmas. From highwaymen to poets, it’s seen it all. Enjoy a tipple in the garden if the weather’s nice, and soak up the stories. It’s a right treat for those who love a bit of history with their pint.
5. The Prospect of Whitby: River Views and Brews
Down by the river, The Prospect of Whitby offers stunning views and cracking brews. It’s London’s oldest riverside pub, and the views of the Thames are worth the trip alone. Grab a pint, take in the scenery, and let the river’s rhythm set the pace for the rest of your crawl.
6. The George Inn: A Proper Knees-Up
The George Inn in Southwark is where the party really kicks off. With its courtyard and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a proper knees-up. The ale flows freely, and the laughter’s contagious. It’s a place where strangers become mates, and the night feels young.
7. The Churchill Arms: Flowers and Pints
Over in Kensington, The Churchill Arms is a sight to behold. Covered in flowers, it’s a blooming marvel. Inside, it’s all about the pints and the Thai food, a quirky combo that just works. It’s a bit posh, but don’t let that fool you; it’s as welcoming as your mum’s front room.
8. The Ten Bells: Spooky Stories and Spirits
For a bit of a spooky twist, The Ten Bells in Spitalfields is your go-to. Known for its connection to Jack the Ripper, it’s got an eerie charm. But don’t worry, the spirits here are more about the drinks than the ghosts. It’s a place where history and mystery meet over a pint.
9. The Mayflower: Sail into a Pint
The Mayflower in Rotherhithe is a nod to the ship that sailed to the New World. It’s got a nautical vibe and a cosy feel. Enjoy a pint by the river and imagine the adventures of those who set sail from here. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, perfect for a quiet moment on your crawl.
10. The French House: A Bit of Culture, Innit
In Soho, The French House offers a touch of culture with your pint. Known for its half-pints and artistic crowd, it’s a place where creativity flows as freely as the beer. It’s a bit different, but that’s what makes it special. A must-visit for those who fancy a change of pace.
11. The Grapes: Dickensian Charm and Ale
The Grapes in Limehouse is a pub with a literary twist. Charles Dickens himself was a regular, and you can feel the history in every corner. Enjoy a pint and a bit of Dickensian charm as you soak up the atmosphere. It’s a place where stories come to life over a good ale.
12. The Anchor: A Riverside Classic
The Anchor in Bankside is a riverside classic. With its views of the Thames and a history dating back to Shakespeare’s time, it’s a pub that ticks all the boxes. Grab a pint, find a spot by the river, and let the world drift by. It’s the perfect pause on your pub crawl adventure.
13. The Dog & Duck: A Soho Staple
Back in Soho, The Dog & Duck is a staple of the area. Known for its Victorian charm and lively crowd, it’s a place where the old meets the new. The beer’s always flowing, and the vibe’s always buzzing. It’s a place where you can let your hair down and enjoy the moment.
14. The Coach & Horses: A Right Old Knees-Up
The Coach & Horses in Soho is where the night really comes alive. Known for its eccentric landlord and lively atmosphere, it’s a place where anything can happen. The pints are cold, the laughter’s loud, and the memories are unforgettable. It’s the perfect spot for a right old knees-up.
15. The Harp: End with a Proper Pint
Finally, we end our crawl at The Harp in Covent Garden. Known for its real ales and friendly vibe, it’s the perfect place to wind down. Enjoy a proper pint, reflect on the night’s adventures, and raise a glass to a crawl well done.
Conclusion: Bob’s Your Uncle, a Crawl to Remember!
And there you have it, a London pub crawl that’ll have you grinning like a Cheshire cat. From historic haunts to lively locals, each pub offers a unique slice of London life. So, next time you’re in town, grab your mates and hit the crawl. It’s a night of laughter, stories, and pints that’ll stay with you long after the last call. Bob’s your uncle, it’s a crawl to remember! Cheers! 🍻