Cool Pubs In London

If you're on the hunt for a cool hangout without the high energy of our favourite cool London bars, look no further than our list of cool pubs in London. Each of these top London pubs has its own unique appeal, although each is well equipped with enviable decor, tasty looking menus and an impressive drink selection - an easy way to wile away an evening or weekend. As far as cool London pubs go, this recommended list has got you covered. 

Last edited by Izzah Kazi

Last updated on 23rd April 2024




BrewDog Bars In London

From accepting cryptocurrency in Canary Wharf to vegan Biff's Jack Shack in Dalston, BrewDog are doing something a little different in London. There's one consistent however: all the bars are filled with great beer and have a hearty menu of American bites.

The Owl and Pussycat

Surrounded by some of the coolest patrons in Shoreditch, it's no wonder that The Owl and Pussycatis such a pubbing treasure in East London. Not only boasting proper pub grub alongside London draught beers, guests can get caught up in the cool, vintage inspired interiors and the petite beer garden. 

The Star of Kings

Karaoke Offer (Sunday-Wednesday)

A hot-spot for week night socialising and extended boozing - The Star of Kings is a hub of entertainment spread across 2 floors. Satisfying both the traditional pubbing spec as well as serving as a basement-type bar with mammoth sound system, The Star of Kings is a place where you can knock back some beers with friends or settle in for a night of DJs and dancing.

The Cat and Mutton

Tuesday Quiz Night

Originally established way back in 1729, The Cat and Mutton retains its historic aura whilst bringing itself slap bang up to date. Reflecting the area and the creative, lively types that frequent its bar stools, this joint exudes a quirky and fun character. Amping up its appeal with a variety of craft beers, pub fodder, drinks deals, pub quizzes, Sunday roasts and an upstairs cocktail bar; this is the definition of public house excellence. 

Hackney Tap

Boasting a crackin' craft beer selection, tasty grub and gorgeous garden space, it's no wonder why Hackney Tap is a local favourite. Make your way to Mare Street for some good vibes in its cosy indoor space adorned with 19th-century furnishings, or head outside for a spot of sunshine.

The Mayflower

The Mayflower is cosy English pub inspired by the 17th-century ship that took English pilgrims to the New World. Based in Rotherhithe in South East London, the pub is based next to the famous ship's original mooring point and offers Londoners a warming, traditional pub experience. Drenched in dark mahogany tones and nautical antiques, the real gem here has to be the diverse food and drink menu. Enjoy a pint of real ale and all your favourite gastro-pub dishes at this charming venue in South London. 

The Kenton

With a bustling beer garden, food from Slow Fire London and occasional DJs on the decks, this east London spot is a top choice any time of year. Of course, you'll find a superb drinks selection serving everything from draught beers to Aquavit-laced cocktails.

Grand Junction Arms

Fancy upgrading your regular ol' boozer? Then check out Grand Junction Arms, a gorgeous pub fronting a top-notch balcony and fabulous beer garden. If you're craving some a little exclusive, be sure to rent one of their private lodges equipped with speakers and screens.

The Eagle, North Kensington

The Eagle in Ladbroke Grove has become something of a West London favourite, thanks to its new partnership with Truman tank beers. Based just a short stroll from the area's tube station, the venue's chefs have created a menu that perfectly pairs with the fresh tank beers on offer behind the bar. Serene, stylish and bursting with charming character, there are few better places to relax and watch the hours lazily drift by.

The Stag

We LOVE Fridays - £10 WINGS ALL DAY!!! Happy Hour on House Cocktails FROM 5PM TO 7PM. Mojoto, Esprsso Martini & Margarita and 1 other offer

The Stag serves delicious beer in a trendy environment in North London. Boasting over 24 taps, along with 100 bottles and cans in the fridge, there's plenty of beer for any kind of drinker. If you don't fancy beer, there's also a great selection of wines and cocktails available. If you're feeling peckish, make sure you tuck into their delicious classic pub food, which includes a roast dinner renowned through London.

People's Park Tavern

This pub has got cool in the bucket-loads; it has large, eclectic interiors, a bright beer garden and nice looking tattooed barmen and women who know their war around their in-house craft brewery just as well as they do the tie dye section of a vintage shop. Despite all of these majorly cool features though, People's Park Tavern remains under the radar as a hidden gem in East London that is never too crowded for a relaxed pint. 

The Manor Walworth

There's a lot to love about The Manor Walworth. Not only does it boast cosy interiors, with patterned wallpaper and chandeliers, but also a pretty garden for when the sun smiles down on us. Head on over for lip-smacking beers, wicked wines and a menu of South American fare.

The Mere Scribbler

Midday Marys

No stone is left unturned at The Mere Scribbler in South London. The venue caters for a wide range of different tastes, boasting a drinks menu of craft beers, international wines, local ales and classic cocktails. If that wasn't enticing enough, the kitchen serves hearty burgers, bar snacks and sharing plates to its guests, while the huge screen TVs showcase the very best live sporting action. 

Royal Albert

New Cross gem the Royal Albert is up on our list of cool pubs in the area. Head inside this traditional boozer that's decked out with ornate lamps and leather sofas for some ice-cold pints. If you've worked up an appetite, sink your teeth into the slow-cooked pork belly. 

The King's Arms

Not known to play by the rules, The King's Arms in London Bridge is full of surprises. From art classes to board games and an in-house shop selling prints and homeware, be sure to expect the unexpected. Wing by for half price cocktails from Tuesday to Friday, or bag a candlelit table for a feast of small plates, burgers or pub classics like fish and chips and baby back ribs. 

Union Tavern

Head down to The Union Tavern on a sunny afternoon for an alfresco drinking experience - gaze out over the canal as you enjoy a beverage in the beer garden. A favourite during the summer months, The Union Tavern also serves up some delightful meals and offers a hefty wine menu to keep you satisfied. This top London pub is incredibly popular, so be sure to book your spot now.

Brewhouse & Kitchen Highbury

B&K Beer Masterclass from £20 and 1 other offer

If you're looking for a pub that has something a bit different, be sure to pay Highbury's Brewhouse & Kitchen a visit. Complete with its own micro-brewery, it boasts a wider array of home-grown beers and ales. As part of a wider chain of micro-breweries, there are over 50 different variations of small-batch craft beers to sample. To complete the experience, why not gorge on the delicious food offered on their impressive, international menu? Tuck into their Mezze Platter or indulge in a portion of perfectly cooked Arancini Risotto Balls.

BrewDog Waterloo

Bottomless Brunch and 1 other offer

BrewDog Waterloo is the place to be: A hub for beer enthusiasts, casual hangs and an all-around great time. From IPAs to stouts and everything in between, you'll find something to suit every taste in this hoppy heaven. But it's not just about the wicked brews; spread over two floors, this boozer houses its own microbrewery, stand-alone cocktail bar, coffee shop, ice cream van, workspaces, bowling alley and a MASSIVE slide. Need we say more?

The Star of Bethnal Green

£5 Margaritas! and 2 other offers

Giving off some quaint living room vibes, The Star of Bethnal Green is a bit of laid-back pubbing luxe spread across 2 floors and feeling much like a house-turned-boozer. This Star is the perfect spot for some after work tipples or weekend daytime drinking affairs with plenty of tables to sit you and your mates as well as some good old fashioned fun quiz nights on the cards. 

The Richmond Vault

Happy Hour - Two for one and 2 other offers

Tucked away on Hill St under two old-timey buildings, The Richmond Vault is a real hidden gem in the heart of London. This cosy spot has it all - yummy grub, drinks from all over the globe, and live music every Friday. But let's not forget about the cocktails; they've got unique libations like the Smoked Dates and the Royal Gin Basil on offer to tantalise your taste buds.

The Crooked Billet E5

The Crooked Billet E5 is a well-known boozer among Clapton residents, as well as a popular watering hole for large groups thanks to its giant beer garden. It oozes atmosphere and character, thanks to its warm interior. On the menu, there are delicious pizzas, roasts plus a hearty beef and Guinness stew.

Trinity Borough

Trinity Borough is one of the best pubs in Central London for all the right reasons. When you're not lapping up the gorgeous interiors, tasty drinks and top-notch grub, be entertained by all kinds of events, from exciting live music sessions to hilarious comedy sets.

Hand Of Glory

An pub made of giant maypoles, wicker masks, branches hanging from the ceiling and classic folk inspired stylings, Hand of Glory absolutely champions cool London pubs. A place with a laid-back atmosphere where you can Sunday roast, relax after work and fill your boots on craft beer and cider, this Hackney special is a must-try.  

The Victoria

The Vic benefits from a long-standing tradition of memorable gig nights. Welcoming music fans from around London and beyond for many a year, the pub continues to build on its reputation for cranking up the volume. There's more to this friendly local than just music though, and guests quickly find themselves at home with classic cocktails, locally brewed beers and rotating food menus on offer in the main room.