In London, a pub is not just a place to get a drink. It’s a community living room, a history lesson, and a cultural institution all rolled into one. For centuries, these establishments have been the backdrop for political debates, literary masterpieces, and quiet moments of reflection.
Stepping into a historic London pub is like stepping back in time. To help you navigate this essential British experience, here is our guide to raising a glass the right way.
Know Before You Go: A Quick Guide to Pub Etiquette
- Order at the Bar: Unlike many bars around the world, there's generally no table service for drinks. Head to the bar to place your order.
- Know Your Taps: "Ale" is the traditional, richer British beer, while "lager" is the colder, fizzier style you may be more familiar with. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for a recommendation!
- It's My Round! If you're with a group of Brits, you’ll likely hear this phrase. It’s customary for people to take turns buying a "round" of drinks for the entire group.
Three Historic Pubs You Must Visit
1. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street) Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, this pub is a maze of dark, wood-panelled rooms and subterranean cellars. With its sawdust-covered floors and roaring fires in the winter, it feels incredibly atmospheric. It was a regular haunt for literary giants like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.
2. The Mayflower (Rotherhithe) Claiming to be the oldest pub on the River Thames, The Mayflower is a true gem. This cozy, candlelit pub is steeped in history—it’s located near the original mooring point of the Pilgrim Fathers’ Mayflower ship, which set sail for America in 1620. You can even buy US postage stamps from the bar, a tradition they’ve held for decades.
3. The Churchill Arms (Kensington) You can’t miss this pub—it’s famously covered in an astonishing cascade of flowers and hanging baskets, making it one of London’s most beautiful sights. Inside, the pub is a treasure trove of Winston Churchill memorabilia. And for a quirky twist, it’s home to a fantastic and surprisingly authentic Thai restaurant in the back.
Don't Forget the Food: Classic Pub Grub
A pub visit isn't complete without trying some classic British comfort food. Look for these staples on the menu:
- Fish and Chips: Flaky battered fish with chunky chips. A timeless classic.
- Sunday Roast: A weekend institution. Typically roast beef, chicken, or lamb served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy.
- Steak and Ale Pie: Tender steak in a rich, ale-infused gravy, all encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Experience History Firsthand
Ready to discover these historic watering holes? Make your trip seamless by booking a unique London experience, like a guided Historic Pub Tour, directly through TripsLondon. And find the perfect place to rest after your explorations by choosing from hundreds of our comfortable short-term rentals. Cheers to your next adventure!
