Oldest Pubs in London
The Travel Pages picks out some of the oldest pubs in London, going back to the 16th century, and recommends an ale to try in each of these historic gems.
Oldest Pubs in London
Here’s a look at some of London’s oldest and most traditional and historic pubs, each with its own fascinating story. We also recommend a beer to try in each one.
The Seven Stars (1602)
Tucked behind the Royal Courts of Justice, this charming pub survived the Great Fire of London in 1666. Originally built for Dutch sailors, it retains its original timber frame, crooked floors, and a cosy, old-world atmosphere. The pub is famed for its legal clientele and resident cat, “Temple.”
Address: 53 Carey St, London WC2A 2JB
Phone: +44 20 7242 8521
Website: thesevenstars1602.co.uk
Ale: Harvey’s Best Bitter (4.0% ABV)
Why: This smooth, malty Sussex ale complements the pub’s rustic 17th-century charm and pairs well with their famous pies.
The Prospect of Whitby (1520, rebuilt in the 18th century)
London’s oldest riverside pub, located in Wapping, dates back to Tudor times. Once a haunt for smugglers and pirates, it features a historic flagstone floor, a pewter bar, and a noose hanging outside—a nod to its grim past near Execution Dock.
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, London E1W 3SH
Phone: +44 20 7481 1095
Website: greeneking.co.uk
Ale: Fuller’s London Pride (4.1% ABV)
Why: A classic London ale that matches the pub’s maritime history—best enjoyed by the Thames-side terrace.
The Spaniards Inn (1585)
This Hampstead pub was built as a tollgate lodge and is steeped in literary history—Keats and Dickens drank here, and it’s mentioned in Dracula. Its oak-paneled interior, roaring fires, and sprawling beer garden make it a timeless classic.
Address: Spaniards Rd, London NW3 7JJ
Phone: +44 20 8731 8406
Website: thespaniardshampstead.co.uk
Ale: Timothy Taylor’s Landlord (4.3% ABV)
Why: This award-winning Yorkshire ale suits the literary haunt (Keats, Dickens) with its balanced hops and caramel notes.
The George Inn (1677, rebuilt after a fire)
The last remaining galleried coaching inn in London, this Southwark pub was frequented by Shakespeare and Dickens. Now owned by the National Trust, it retains its 17th-century charm with cobbled courtyards and wooden balconies.
Address: 77 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH
Phone: +44 20 7407 2056
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk
Ale: Greene King IPA (3.6% ABV)
Why: Brewed since the 18th century, this light IPA echoes the coaching inn’s heritage.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (1667, rebuilt after the Great Fire)
A Fleet Street institution, this warren-like pub was rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire and boasts a maze of dark wood-paneled rooms and coal fires. Famous patrons include Samuel Johnson and Mark Twain.
Address: 145 Fleet St, London EC4A 2BU
Phone: +44 20 7353 6170
Website: ye-olde-cheshire-cheese.co.uk
Ale: Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery Bitter (4.0% ABV)
Why: Served in traditional tankards, this nutty brown ale fits the pub’s Dickensian gloom.
The Lamb & Flag (1772, though records suggest earlier origins)
Known as the “Bucket of Blood” due to its bare-knuckle boxing past, this Covent Garden pub has literary ties to Dickens and John Dryden. Its snug interior and hidden courtyard exude old London charm.
Address: 33 Rose St, London WC2E 9EB
Phone: +44 20 7497 9504
Website: lambandflagcoventgarden.co.uk
Ale: Adnams Ghost Ship (4.5% ABV)
Why: A citrusy pale ale named for smugglers—ideal for this former “Bucket of Blood” boxing pub.
The Mayflower (1550, rebuilt in the 18th century)
Nestled in Rotherhithe, this historic pub was the departure point of the Pilgrims’ Mayflower ship in 1620. With its low beams, Thames views, and 17th-century decor, it’s a slice of maritime history.
Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF
Phone: +44 20 7237 4088
Website: mayflowerpub.co.uk
Ale: Meantime London Pale Ale (4.3% ABV)
Why: A crisp, modern take on historic London brewing, perfect with riverside views.
Ye Olde Mitre (1546)
Hidden down an alley near Hatton Garden, this tiny pub was built for the servants of the Bishop of Ely. Its Elizabethan-era interior, including a cherry tree once used as a maypole, makes it a true hidden gem.
Address: 1 Ely Ct, London EC1N 6SJ
Phone: +44 20 7405 4751
Website: yeoldemitreholborn.co.uk
Ale: Courage Directors (4.8% ABV)
Why: A rich, strong ale once brewed for London’s dockworkers—great in this hidden Elizabethan gem.
The Grapes (1583)
A Limehouse riverside pub with ties to Dickens (Our Mutual Friend), this narrow, creaky tavern offers Thames views and a historic atmosphere. Sir Ian McKellen is a co-owner, adding a touch of modern celebrity to its ancient walls.
Address: 76 Narrow St, London E14 8BP
Phone: +44 20 7987 4396
Website: thegrapes.co.uk
Ale: St. Austell Tribute (4.2% ABV)
Why: A Cornish ale with fruity notes, matching the pub’s maritime ties.
The Old Bell Tavern (1670s)
Rebuilt by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire, this Fleet Street pub served workers constructing St. Bride’s Church. Its wood-paneled interior and historic aura make it a perfect pit stop for history lovers.
Address: 95 Fleet St, London EC4Y 1DH
Phone: +44 20 7583 2376
Website: nicholsonspubs.co.uk
Ale: Sharps Doom Bar (4.0% ABV)
Why: This well-balanced amber ale suits the Wren-designed pub’s post-Great Fire rebirth.
Each of these pubs offers a unique glimpse into London’s past—perfect for a historic pub crawl!
Pro Tips:
Ask for “cellar temperature” ales in older pubs—they’re served slightly warmer to enhance flavor.
Try a “half-pint” at multiple pubs to compare (many offer 1/3 measures too).
Historic pairings: Drink Fuller’s or Harvey’s ales in 17th-century pubs—they’ve brewed since the same era!
Pro Tips:
Ask for “cellar temperature” ales in older pubs—they’re served slightly warmer to enhance flavor.
Try a “half-pint” at multiple pubs to compare (many offer 1/3 measures too).
Historic pairings: Drink Fuller’s or Harvey’s ales in 17th-century pubs—they’ve brewed since the same era!
Your Pick of London Pub Guides
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