It seems like our penchant for a pint is nothing new, Londoners have been sipping beer since what seems like the dawn of time. From former banks through to Grade II listed neighbourhood haunts, London is full of historical pubs, brilliant for getting to know this city, its ales and its architechture better. We've done our history homework and found London's oldest pubs, read our recommendations here.
Last updated on 7th November 2022
Despite its brightly coloured and quirky furnishings, stylish design and cool atmosphere, The Devonshire in Balham is a pub with a traditional history in London. Now serving homely British food and local craft ales, The Devonshire hasn't got rid of its historical features, instead combining modern with old for a gorgeous drinking setting.
If you like your boozer with a little history, then The William IV London - Kensal Green is a great choice. With stained-glass windows and a bar that dates back to 1837, this fabulous venue offers fascinating interiors. As for food? They have a menu curated by Greg Weaver for that.
With links to Jack the Ripper and most recently Jamie Oliver, The Ten Bells has more stories to tell than many old pubs in London. The East London boozer is set across three-floors and includes a quirky cocktail bar upstairs, while downstairs there is a more informal pub setting.
The Duke's Head in Putney has earnt its stripes as one of London's historical pubs with a Grade II listing and Victorian credentials. The South London spot is no old codger though, the various rooms have all been styled in an individual way, from an American glitzy and gold bar through to a gorgeous dining room.
Located near London Bridge and one of the oldest pubs in the city, The Leather Exchange is a fabulous watering hole. Eat everything from scrumptious burgers and halloumi sandwiches to sweet waffles and scrumptious salads, alongside freshly pulled pints.
Founded in 1851, The Prince Alfred is a fantastic watering hole to visit if you're in the Paddington area. Along with endless pints of lager and ale, you and your mates can settle into this old boozer for traditional British classic dishes.
Chelsea is full of London's historical pubs and The Hollywood Arms is no exception. Close to Harvey Nichols and other London landmarks, the pub has been a West London stalwart for more than 150 years; head there today to try gastro dishes and a great selection of wine.
One of London's most historic pubs, The Camden Head lies on Camden High Street. You'll find everything from stand-up comedy and club nights to the usual drinks and tasty bites from Smoke 'n' Buns at this north London boozer.
Home to stunning Victorian interiors, Junction Tavern is a boozer worth visiting. Not only do they offer a fabulous garden space, an indoor area that's perfect for dining, but they also have a crackin' food and drinks menu to boot.
Open since 1738, The Running Horse is one of the oldest pubs in London, and the oldest functioning pub in Mayfair. Serving up innovative cocktails under the masterful eye of former Sketch bars director Dom Jacobs, this cool Central London watering hole is the perfect combination of traditional and contemporary.
You want old London pub, you got old London pub with The George IV in West London. Wetting Londoners' whistles for more than 200 years. It may now be more known for its craft beer and British menu, but the pub was one of the first places to start a coaching service for patrons wishing to head into Central London - take that UBER.
Housed in beautiful Victorian building dating back to the 1800s is The Brownswood. Head to the Finsbury Park gem to uncover a gorgeous beer garden and beautifully restored interiors, alongside a choice of real ale, craft beer, artisan spirits or classic British grub.
If your love of London pubs extends to those tucked behind alleys, decked in dark wood, teasing with vintage tankards and boasting a dubious history, you wont many better than Ye Olde Mitre in the City of London.
Having served as inspiration for the likes of George Orwell and Michael Powell, The Newman Arms really is a pub that's stooped in history. Experience the 17th century haunt for yourself and you'll get to sip on a wide range of modern and traditional beers in extraordinary surroundings.
First opened in 1865, People's Park Tavern is an iconic East London pub that frequently wins 'best beer garden' competitions. The old pub is situated right next to Victoria Park, contains a microbrewery and has a great roster of events which includes crazy golf and regular comedy evenings.
Londoners have been enjoying pints and British grub at Lamb Tavern for more than 200 years and the Leadenhall Market spot shows no sign of slowing down. A historical London drinking spot, Lamb Tavern retains a sense of the past with old photos, chandeliers and rickety wooden tables.
Harking back to 1729, The Lamb doesn't do mod cons, instead the pub chooses to maintain a sense of tradition. There is no music or TVs, the pub is Grade II listed and many of the old features remain, just what you need for an after-work pint in a historical London drinking spot.
Steeped in history, The Britannia is an old London pub in Kensington. The boozer has been around since 1834 and while it still has many interesting historical features, bright blue walls, arty prints and a selection of craft beers stop it from feeling stuffy.
A hidden gem in the heart of Rotherhithe, The Mayflower is one of London's oldest pubs and dons gorgeous views of the river. Sit outside or dine in as you enjoy traditional pale ales, local gins and the finest wine.
Just two minutes from Highgate High Street, you'll find The Wrestlers - an old pub that's stood on the same site since 1547. Its original fireplace, wood-panelled walls and stained glass windows make it a traditional boozer packed with old school charm.
Ranelagh Bowes Park is a welcoming British boozer that dates back to the 1800s. In keeping with tradition, you'll find a range of top-drawer drinks behind the bar. Plus, now there's regular quizzes, live music, Sky Sports and pub grub to boot.
Tapping into Britain's nautical history, this Grade II listed building has a truly unique atmosphere to it. With carefully crafted cocktails nodding to the days of spice trading, craft beers, ales and cider on offer, as well as a stunning selection of gins, there really is plenty to wet the whistle.
