One of the most important areas in London, let alone the country, Westminster is better known for its iconic landmarks (such as Westminster Hall) and the politicians that grace its streets. And when you're not perusing nearby sites or chatting shop about the UK's affairs, there's a great range of pubs and bars in which to refuel. From Whitehall's traditional wooden boozers through to more modern additions near Victoria, we've rounded up the best places to drink in Westminster.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 9th February 2024
Head to Westminster bar TH@51 and you'll sip your way through an experimental cocktail menu in swish surrounds, all while overlooking a glorious Victorian courtyard. The drinks list here uses ingredients from different landscapes, including mountains, deserts and urban gardens.
Counting Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament as neighbours, Red Lion's walls have heard many a political secret in their time. The traditional boozer is packed with quirky features, from chandeliers to politicians' portraits. Grab a pint of ale, one of their British pies and see how some of the most important people in the country drink at this pub.
A neighbourhood pub that's become a popular post-work spot, The Barley Mow is a great choice for a quick pint or casual bite to eat. They've got everything from chicken and chorizo pies to plant-based burgers on the menu, with a cracking choice of Sunday roasts as well.
The Loose Box is nestled a few streets away from Pimlico station, with a friendly atmosphere and cosy booths. This relaxed pub also boasts one of the best beer gardens in Westminster with a menu to match - think hand-stretched pizzas and Italian-inspired sharers.
One of the best bars in Westminster, this fun and friendly spot in Victoria is bringing you delicious beers and their signature pizzas. Head in for tank-fresh pints and affordable eats, alongside plush booth seating and unique artwork.
After a stunning rooftop bar in Westminster? Then head to Market Halls Victoria for multiple venues across three floors. Soak up some incredible views while cosying up under heaters, with fully stocked bars to suit whatever occasion brings you there.
Decked out in white tile walls and wooden floors, Victoria Taps in Westminster is known for its cracking selection of craft beers, real ales, premium lagers and spirits. They also offer artisan cocktails, or fantastic coffee if you're not drinking, alongside delicious hand-stretched pizzas or burgers to keep you fuelled as you enjoy live sport here, or just kick back in their comfy leather booths.
Bringing village vibes to Pimlico, The Marquis of Westminster is a homely pub that's perfect for a lunch pit-stop. The menu is more British than a plate of fish and chips, with comfort food in the form of fish finger sandwiches, cheese burgers, and sausages and mash.
Not one for a quiet night, Munich Cricket Club is hard to beat if you're looking for an after work knees up. The Bavarian-inspired spot is a nonstop party of oompah bands, steins of beer and some impressive German cuisine like pretzels or bratwurst.
A short walk from Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, The Feathers is a cheerful boozer that churns out crowd-pleasing grub and cask ales. Housed in a gorgeous Victorian building, it's got all the hallmarks of a traditional pub - with open fireplaces and leather chairs.
Situated in Trafalgar Square, Walkers of Whitehall is a bustling pub with a menu of British classics. Think fish 'n' chips, plant-based burgers or sausage and mash, all freshly prepared in the open kitchen. What's more, this traditional boozer maintains the original vaulted basement ceilings from when it was a bank, adding a little history to your visit.
Fronting one of the best beer gardens in the West End, The Tattershall Castle allows you to look out over the Thames from the outdoor deck of a boat as you drink. And if you head inside, you will find a fully stocked bar and plush velvet booths for the colder months.
Set in 13th Century cloisters, Cellarium Cafe & Terrace makes for a delicious break after exploring nearby Westminster Abbey. The all-day space is perfect for afternoon tea or a working lunch, with deli sandwiches and sweet treats on offer too.
Part of the nationwide chain, All Bar One has garnered a reputation for classic cocktails and tasty comfort food. The Victoria location is no different, with the airy bar offering more than 70 bottles of wine, along with several wine-based cocktails. And if you're looking for a pretty beer garden in the city, they've got that too.
Set in the Zig Zag building, Iberica near Victoria is perfect for an afternoon of sangria drinking and tapas nibbling. The modern space is furnished with touches of Spain, with great pans hanging from the ceiling and bottles of wine lining the walls. And if you're looking for a beer garden in Westminster? They've got that too, thanks to a pretty patio space.
From must-try South African-inspired food to signature espresso martinis and DJ sets throughout the week, Bbar is a destination for so many different occasions. To top it off? There's wine flights and afternoon teas to enjoy amongst the quirky interiors here.
The Phoenix is a Westminster pub fronting the likes of real ales, craft beer and traditional British fare, all just a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace. Better yet, their covered beer garden in the West End is ideal for alfresco drinking and dining all year round.
One of the best pubs in the area for real ale, Buckingham Arms has appeared in CAMRA's guide every year since it's been published. Not far from St James' Park, the boozer has plenty of quirky features, from a mural wall through to stained glass features on doors.
A stone's throw from the Palace of Westminster, don't be surprised to see a famous face or two at Marquis of Granby. The spot is named after an 18th Century war hero, and is pretty old school, with a huge oak bar and clackety furniture. As one would expect, the food here is hearty pub grub - you can't go wrong with one of their pies.
A stone's throw from the Houses of Parliament, The Clarence is a lively boozer with a grand dining room on the first floor and a bustling bar area downstairs. You can expect a great selection of ale, wine and Champagne here, alongside a menu of British favourites and specials that change daily.
Not far from Tate Britain, The Morpeth Arms' walls are decked out with portraits of the illustrious and great. Head into the 'Spying Room' for views of the MI6 building and the Thames, not a bad backdrop to work through a great choice of cask ales, craft beer and a long wine list.
