pub tour of london

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Historic London Pub Tour

Tour Information

Historic london pub tour highlights.

Join us on the City of London pub tour to see the most; iconic, historic, and unusual pubs in London.

You will get to experience London like a true local visiting some of London's best traditional pubs and hidden gems with an entertaining local guide.

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Click here to view our full selection of free London walking tours .

We will explore secret alleyways and hear Tales from some of London’s greatest pubs, from where people have imbibed for over 500 years.

We will learn about the origin of London's famed Gin Palaces of the 19th Century as we wander through streets that would have been home to beggars, thieves, and vagabonds.

We'll discover five iconic watering holes visited by some of London's most infamous characters, each with a history to tell.

These include some of the best-preserved traditional pubs in England.

Each pub we visit will have a very different atmosphere and history but all share a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a wonderful building.

Highlights:

• Visit pubs frequented by London's most famous poets, writers, and free thinkers!
• Follow in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth I and visit the hardest-to-find pub in London.
• Explore parts of London as a local and get away from the tourist crowd.
• Drink in a pub that has actual jail cells in the basement from medieval times.
• See the first Irish Pub outside of Ireland.
• Hear the tales of and visit some of the famed Victorian Gin Palaces!

What else you should know

It's a walking tour, but there's not a lot of distance involved.

Having said that, the alleys can be very narrow and there are a small number of steps to climb throughout. Wear comfortable shoes! 

Pubs will accept cash or card payments for drinks as you prefer. You will need to pay for your own drinks during the tour!

This is a tour for guests aged 18 and over only.

What to bring : Photographic ID (18 years and over only) .

Where: Outside The Blackfriar Pub (opposite Blackfriars Station - North of the river Thames). The tour finishes near Holborn Station.

Duration: Approximately 2.5 - 3 Hours

When:  Wednesdays at 16:00 Book online HERE .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

The average cost of a pint is £7.

And much, much more

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Historic Pub Tours

The fun way to experience london, explore ancient laneways and amazing pubs and hear tales of naughty, crazy music legends, famous actors and infamous criminals., virtual experiences.

Bringing the best of British pub culture through this hilarious interactive virtual experience, and all from the comfort of your own home or office.

Perfect for drinks with friends, team building or a gift that's outside the box.

We're a collection of local and veteran entertainers, history buffs and musical guides, who've come together to show you the hidden depths of London and its secret venues and best locations. 

Experience London like a true local, in the company of a true local. 

Historic Pub Tours

Click the link above for more information

London has been home to some of the greatest musicians, artists, actors and criminals in history, from the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix to Karl Marx, George Orwell and Shakespeare.  

Come visit the same venues, pubs and areas that they all frequented, partied and played.

Want to visit London's most iconic landmarks and Old City sections, but don't want a regular boring tour? 

Why not discover and explore London, while taking regular breaks to enjoy a drink at some of London's grandest and most historical pubs too!

• London City Tours >

London Historical Pub Walking Tour

Our London pub tour takes you to some of the most historic pubs and watering holes in the city. It’s a great way to get a feel for one of Britain’s most famous cultural pastimes. You’ll get to visit London’s most famous pubs & ale houses on a guided afternoon walk. Your entertaining guide will share infamous stories about London, as you pass some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

London Pub Tour:

• Visit some of the oldest pubs, alehouses and taverns in the city! These ancient hidden gems will be brought to life by your guide
• You’ll visit at least 4 of London’s oldest inns, taverns and gin places
• Drink along “The Street of Shame”, following in the footsteps of Dickens and Shakespeare
• Hear stories about London’s most ghostly pub and learn lots of fun, interesting facts from your friendly guide
• Enjoy classic London sights including St Paul’s Cathedral as you walk through narrow cobbled streets
• At the end of the tour, why not enjoy some pub food like fish & chips?

Why take this tour?

English is famous for its drinking heritage, and London has long been associated with its many pubs and taverns. It’s a long-standing British tradition to enjoy a few pints of beer and this tour will give you a taste of this culture. You’ll get to see some of London’s most famous watering holes, with plenty of stories to keep you entertained along the way. A great way to spend 3-4 hours in the city!

Tour Includes:

• Professional tour guide
• Walking tour

Tour Excludes:

• The food and drink are not included in the tour price. You will need to bring some cash so that you can buy your own drinks.
• Meeting point: Outside St Paul’s Underground Station (Exit 2)
• End point: Close to Holborn Underground Station (at approx. 5-6pm)
• The tour lasts 3-4 hours
• This is a small group tour that operates with a maximum of 14 people
• You must give 72 hours notice of departure in order to cancel this product
• If you appear to be under the age of 25, you need to bring photo ID
• Its strongly encouraged for you to have some lunch before the tour, as there is not time to have lunch during the tour.

Tour Booking

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Historic city pub tours.

Fleet Street Tour

Holborn Tour

Covent Garden Tour

Wapping Tour

Oxford Tour

Dublin Tour

Liverpool Tour

• London Tavern Trails

HISTORIC LONDON PUB TOURS

FOLLOWING THE END OF UK GOVERNMENT COVID RESTRICTIONS, OUR TOURS ARE NOW FULLY UP & RUNNING AGAIN

London Tavern Trails™ operates private pre-booked guided walking tours of London's historic pubs

★   To go on a London Tavern Tour, make a booking by e mail or phone, or book online using the "Book Now" buttons on this site

★   Meet on the pavement outside the designated tube station at the agreed time

★   A London Tavern Tour visits 4 historic pubs and lasts around 2½ hours

Our walks combine London, history, old pubs and real ale.

London is the most visited city in the world. Its rich heritage is embodied in its streets and buildings, its walls, rivers, gates, towers, squares, monuments and churches, and in its public houses. The pub is an integral part of London life and there is only one way to experience and enjoy the diversity of London and its pubs, and that is on foot. London Tavern Trails™ provides guided walking tours of London's historic pubs. Join an experienced guide from London Tavern Trails™, and you will:

✱   Visit the historic pubs of London

✱   Learn about their heritage

✱   Discover the history of the area and its inhabitants

✱   Find out about the origins of inns, taverns & public houses

✱   Savour England's national drink (=beer !)

London's pubs have fascinating stories to tell. London taverns of real antiquity are few and far between, but there are a handful of 16th, 17th & 18th century treasures, along with some fine Victorian and Edwardian inns. Our knowledgable guides have a life-long passion for London, its ale-houses and its history. Join them for a guided walking tour and drink in a piece of history.

England's national drink is beer and, more specifically, real ale. Real ale is a natural product brewed using traditional ingredients and left to mature in the cask from which it is served in the pub, through a natural process called secondary fermentation. It is this process which makes real ale unique amongst beers and develops the wonderful tastes and aromas which processed beers like lager can never provide. All real ales contain the same basic ingredients, but each real ale tastes different, according to the types of malt, hops, yeast and water used in the brewing process. All historic pubs visited on London Tavern Trails' walking tours serve these traditional real ales. But, by the way, don't feel obliged to drink real ale - the choice is yours : beer, lager, stout, wine, spirits, soft drinks or whatever takes your fancy.

But don't just take OUR word for it. See what others have to say about our historic pub tours by clicking on one of the Trip Advisor icons on the right of this page.

Our 4 classic tours (Holborn, Fleet Street, Covent Garden and Wapping) are detailed on this website. You can choose from one of these tours or a bespoke tour to suit individual requirements. Possibilities include the historic taverns of Belgravia, St. James's, Smithfield, Southwark or Westminster. A bespoke tour can include as few or as many pubs (within reason !) as you wish.

London Tavern Trails™ was founded by, and is owned and managed by John Edwards and Morris Jones. We both graduated from London Universities and have each spent the majority of our working lives in London. We have a passion for London and its rich history and for London pubs. We believe that real London pubs are unique pieces of living history which are central to an appreciation of the city and its bygone days.

The tavern tours take-in carefully selected historic pubs, which are often English Heritage listed buildings and often listed in CAMRA's National Inventory of historic pub interiors.

Each walk lasts around two & a half hours, which includes a number of refreshment stops en route in carefully selected historic pubs.

We will tell you about the history of each pub visited on the tour and inform you about the history of the local area. You will discover things about beer and brewing that perhaps you didn't know. All the pubs we visit serve real ale, as well as other beers, wines and spirits, and soft drinks. There is no obligation to buy a drink or spend money in any of the pubs we visit.

We welcome children of 14 years of age and over on our guided walks. Under UK Licensing Laws, children under 16 are allowed in pubs so long as they are accompanied by someone who is 18 years or over. But different pubs tend to have different rules, so please ask us in advance if you intend to bring a 14-17 year old on one of our tours. Children under 18 are not permitted to buy or to consume alcohol in a pub.

We are supporters of the Campaign for Real Ale. CAMRA campaigns for real ale and real pubs.

London Pub Tour

Discover the capital's most historic and notorious ale houses

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Users Ages: Please bring a photo ID. All passengers must be 18+. Half a pint is included at the end of the tour.
• Calendar Availabilities: Friday - Sunday: 1 pm - 3 pm

Historic Pub Tour in London

Discover London’s oldest drinking establishments as you explore the back alleys and charming winding streets of the historic city centre.

Visit the place where Dylan Thomas drunkenly misplaced his manuscripts, learn how Victorians fed their gin cravings, and stand in the secret alleyways where one of England’s most notorious poets faced a duel. Learn about London’s seedy drink-obsessed past, whilst taking in the splendour of modern-day London and sensing the ghosts of yesteryear at some of the city’s top landmarks.

This London pub tour promises drama, intrigue and a good glug of history before you relax in one of Charles Dickens’ regular watering holes with the world’s favourite drink.

Book easily online. Cheers!

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Ales and Tales         Tours

 private or bespoke historic london pub walking tours  , the best old pubs in london.

Here at Ales and Tales, we believe London to be the greatest city on earth. Ok, we're slightly biased, but when you consider its history, diversity, commerce and culture,  it's hard to argue otherwise. And throughout the centuries at the centre of it all has been the humble pub. Or not so humble in some cases. Come with us on a journey through time, and hear secrets from the ancient streets whilst visiting some of the best old pubs in London.

We're open!

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

A fascinating, friendly and fun tour of historic  London pubs.

Brad, Adelaide

Great beer and quirky history. Don't miss it.

Joanna, London

So much more than just a pub tour. Absolutely fabulous!

020 8248 1549

[email protected]

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Drink London

Join us for a guided afternoon walk to London’s most famous pubs & ale houses…

Following in the footsteps of Shakespeare & Dickens we stumble along the “Street of Shame”. Pausing to quench our thirst in at least 4 historic pubs, you can sample the wide selection of beer, gin and other delights at your leisure.

From ancient art nouveau gems to back street boozers and Victorian gin palaces we experience some of the oldest pubs in the city, with some dating back 350 years.

En-route we enjoy iconic sights such as St.Paul’s cathedral before exploring hidden alleyways and quiet courtyards far from the maddening crowds. Listen to the gruesome legends of Sweeney Todd, and hear the haunted happenings of London’s most ghostly pubs, before finishing on the edge of Covent Garden…

2pm St.Paul’s Underground (Exit 2) View map

5-6pm Holborn Underground station View map

* Advance Reservations Required

Drink london /£25pp.

Our London pub tour is a gentle 2 mile amble through some of London’s ancient streets, enjoying fine views, quirky history and a drink or two along the way…

Tour Highlights

Historic pubs…

From Dickensian classics built in the mid-1500’s, to hidden gems and glamorous Victorian gin palaces we enjoy a wide variety of pubs, alehouses and taverns.

Quirky history…

Drink along the “street of shame”, meet famous parrots, hear how the Great Fire formed the modern city, savour architectural icons, eavesdrop in the legal heart of London, and hear the legend of Fleet Street’s very own Demon Barber.

Beer! Beer! Beer!

We hunt out the real ales that London is famous for, but don’t worry if you prefer something different and even non-alcoholic! Gin lovers might find over 60 to choose from, whilst non-drinkers can still enjoy a historic day out without a drop passing your lips!

Meet the locals…

The afternoon sees the streets of London at their quietest, but as the walk comes to an end, the offices spill out and city workers are found relaxing over a pint…

Fancy Some Pub Grub?

We might only have time for a cheeky pork pie & pickles or scotch egg along the route, but we finish close to pubs serving all the classics. Enjoy some fish & chips in one of London’s most haunted pubs. At over 500 years old, the ghosts of executed priests may join you…If you prefer something a little less spooky, Covent Garden is just around the corner.

Before you come along

Participants should be over 18 years of age to enjoy this experience to the full! Those lucky enough to look under 25 years of age should bring photo ID.

Grab some lunch before you arrive , as we only pause for a quick drink in each pub

Bring some cash to purchase your own drinks along the way

Need a recommendation for dinner/drinks? Drop us a line for a list of our favourites.

The tour finishes round the corner from Covent Garden & Soho , with all the theatres, restaurants and pubs a short stroll away

Book with confidence! Our walks are guaranteed to depart, and we offer a 100% no quibble money back guarantee.

Professional tour guide

Please note

All food & drink is at your own expense, so you can indulge as much or little as you desire.

4 pubs, 3 hours and over 2000 years of history

Samantha, UK “The tour was the most excellent way to spend an afternoon. We know London but this was a tour which shows you a different side of the City. Our guide, was very knowledgeable and friendly and we loved every moment. I hugely recommend this tour to both locals and tourists”

Andy, USA “This was our first time in London and we had this pub tour on our first day. It very well may have been my favorite experience during the entire trip! Our tour guide, Dave, was fantastic - funny and very knowledgeable.”

Peter, UK “There was an engaging mix of pubs visited, from a rare old boozer with regulars firmly entrenched, to bustling gin palaces, and it felt like our guide was adapting the route as we walked along, according to the group’s interests, weather, opening times etc. Highly recommend this tour whether you want to experience more of London, pubs, beers, or just have a fun day out.”

SMALL GROUPS, LOCAL GUIDES, QUIRKY HISTORY!

We organise private tours!

Ideal for birthdays, celebrations and any other special event, you can experience London with your family, friends and work colleagues with a tour tailored to your interests.

“Beer. Because no great afternoon starts with eating a salad” Anonymous

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Liquid History Tours

Founded by local Londoners to celebrate the quirkier side of London life & history. Perfect for the culturally curious, our small group walking tours delve into the road less-travelled. Escape the bustle and join us as we dive into the heart of London’s liquid history.

Tripadvisor

15 Best London Pub and Pub Crawl Tours (2024)

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Ready to tour the historic pubs and bars of London?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 15 London pub crawl tours – all led by expert guides who want to share this interesting part of England and help you skip the tourist traps.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best pub crawl tour from London is this Small Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London .

It has about 2,600 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

London has a thriving pub scene, with pubs dotted around the city.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London pub tour is this small group historical pub walking tour!

Click here to check prices and availability.

And what better way to experience the different kinds of pubs than with a pub crawl tour, where you get to see multiple places in one go?

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 14 more tours that are definitely worth your time, including London pub walks, London pub crawl tours, historic pub tours London and pub tours in London.

So let’s get into the list of the best pub tours in London so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Pub Crawl Tours in London

1. small group tour: historical pub walking tour of london : best london pub crawl tour.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 2,500+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Local guide
• 4 historic pubs
• Personalized experience
• London’s oldest neighbourhood & numerous city attractions

This afternoon pub crawl is one of the best ways to experience the traditional drinking scene of the city.

On this educational and fun tour, you’re going to accompany your guide to four historic pubs (in Holborn, Fleet Street, City of London, and London Bridge), where you can try out different brews at your own expense.

Your tour will start from St. Paul’s, where you’ll get to see attractions like St. Paul’s Cathedral and walk through the lively Fleet Street, full of gin palaces and pubs.

From here, you’ll pass by a Shakespearean playhouse and stop by an alehouse on Blackfriars for a drink.

Next, you’ll head over to a London boozer, where you’ll get a chance to see authentic medieval décor and talk to regulars.      

You’ll also go to a 17th-century pub that was frequented by both Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens, and learn how the local culture of drinking has changed through the years, before ending your tour at Covent Garden.

2. Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 460+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local English-speaking guide
• Tales about famous musicians, including The Rolling Stones
• Small group experience

Soho is an interesting mixture of Hollywood, Vegas, Amsterdam, and Broadway, and it’s only fitting that the music, art, and drinking scene is rampant here.

On this tour , you’ll get to visit some of the most interesting pubs in the district and learn about the famous actors, playwrights, artists, and musicians that visited them.

What I particularly like about this tour is that it helps save research time and promises interesting stories that you most likely won’t come across if you explore alone.

This tour takes you through 4 pubs while keeping you entertained with stories about Marilyn Monroe, Mozart, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles. 

You’ll also get to see the place where The Beatles’ iconic song ‘Hey Jude’ was recorded and hear stories about Ella Fitzgerald and Jimi Hendrix.

And since this is a small group tour, you’ll enjoy a nice, personalized experience. 

3. Pub Crawl of Central London  

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 410+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Amazing hosts & people ready to party
• 5 free shots
• Exclusive drink discounts
• Free entry everywhere 

If you’re down to party, I recommend checking out this pub crawl tour of Central London.

When you choose this tour, you’re guaranteed a chance to party in the early hours and experience the nightlife in Central London, even if you’re on a short budget.

As part of the package, you get a skip-the-line entry into five nightclubs and bars, five shots, and exclusive discounts throughout the night.

All of these perks make it a great option for solo travelers or couples looking to meet up with like-minded party-goers.

But that’s not all!

You’ll also be accompanied by a professional photographer who’ll capture the most memorable moments of the night so that you have something to look back to.

All in all, I think this tour provides great value, and you’re bound to have a great night!

4. London Landmarks & Secret Gems Bike Ride + Historic Pub + Graffiti Session

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Hand-built British bicycle
• 10% off drinks at the local pub
• Spray paint at the graffiti zone

If just a tour of the pubs around the city sounds boring to you, here’s something different for you: a bike ride through some of the most famous landmarks of the city + a graffiti session + a chance to visit the historic pubs in the city.

On this 3.5-hour bike tour , you’ll hop on an English Pashley bicycle and follow your guide as he takes you down quiet backstreets, along the Thames River, and through famous landmarks.

Throughout your bike ride, you’ll see iconic attractions like the Covent Garden, Southbank, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.

Then, you’ll go off the beaten track and discover street art by Banksy and try graffiti tag.   

I believe this is a great tour for those visiting the city for the very first time.

It includes all the necessary equipment, and you get to choose between morning and afternoon departure.

5. Private Group: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 240+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 to 4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional tour guide on this London pub walking tour
• Street of shame
• Drink recommendations

This private walking tour will take you through the notorious street of shame, where you’ll get to discover some of the most historical pubs in the city.

Since this is a private tour, your guide will tailor all the stops according to your group and choose from 30 gin distilleries and pubs dotted along the route. 

You’ll stop by 4-5 famous pubs where your guide will give you drink recommendations so that you get to enjoy a delicious brew.

You’ll also pass by a number of famous locations like St. Paul’s Cathedral, which survived WW2, St. Bride’s Church, famous for its “wedding cake” legend, and Dr. Johnson’s House, who’s known to be a characterful wordsmith.

Other stops include the Temple Bar Memorial, Royals Courts of Justice, and St. Clement Danes Church.

Once the half-day tour is over, you’ll end up near Covent Garden, where you can go for a meal in a centuries-old haunted pub.  

6. Private Tour of London’s Historic Pubs

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 35+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Half a pint of beer in each pub
• Beer recommendations and expert advice
• A beer expert as the tour guide
• Insight into the country’s beer heritage

Here’s another interesting tour that’ll enhance your experience of the city’s famous pub culture by taking you to some of the best historical public houses.

Along with your private guide, a regular British television contributor, you’re going to explore the city’s vibrant district and stop at four ambient pubs famous for their lively ambience and locally brewed ales.

Let’s talk more about the stops.

One of them is a Victorian gin palace, a public house that closely resembles a medieval house, while another one is a Restoration ale hall.

At each stop, you’ll also sip half a pint and hear fascinating anecdotes about history and beer.   

You’ll also get an interesting insight into the intriguing beer heritage of the country while learning how to recognize the subtle flavors of different beer samples.

Along the way, you’ll also wander the ancient streets of the city, pass through Blackfriars, Fleet Street, and Holborn and learn about the mysteries and legends of ancient monuments.  

7. Royal Historic Pubs Walking Guided Tour in London  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Veteran local guide
• Salacious stories of royals
• Stories of Britain’s legendary characters

If you’re a history buff, you’ll have a grand time on this Royal Historic Pub Guided Walking Tour , especially since there are a lot of interesting things in store.

For starters, you’re going to check out 4 hidden historic pubs with a royal heritage that date back centuries.

You’ll not only celebrate the life and achievements of Queen Elizabeth II, but also hear scandalous and salacious stories about the past and present royals while sipping on a cool glass of beer.

You’ll also walk through ancient alleyways on top of secret tunnels that link the palaces to the pubs and listen to stories about some of the most legendary characters of Britain, including James Bond and Winston Churchill.

You’ll also get to go to the palace where Ed Sheeran almost lost his ear while partying with a princess!

And of course, no tour is complete without checking out some of the most iconic attractions in the city, including Buckingham Palace.  

8. Historic London Pubs Private Walking Tour  : best London pub tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private tour
• Local professional guide
• 6 historic pubs

If you love both beer and history, you should take this half-day tour of historic pubs that will introduce you to the country’s quintessential pub culture.

With a maximum of 15 people, you’ll check out 6 historic pubs, all of them dating back to the tragic Great Fire of London of 1666 in areas like the East End, Clerkenwell, and Farringdon.

At each stop, you’ll learn more about the history of the place and enjoy a small glass of locally brewed ale or beer (or a soft drink if you don’t drink alcohol).

The stops on this tour are quite interesting.

There’s the Viaduct Tavern, an old Gin Palace with holding cells in the cellars for those prisoners awaiting execution at the prison next door.

You’ll also pass through Farringdon and see The Castle pub that has connections to the Royal Family, and even see part of the ancient estate of the Knights of St. John.

Other stops also include the Crown Tavern, an old pub from films and television famously known as the spot where Stalin and Lenin first met, Ye Olde Mitre, and the Seven Stars.     

9. Pubs and Pirates – Historical London Walk

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 7+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Small group experience with a maximum of 12 people
• Professional guide
• Waterfront highlights and lively neighbourhoods
• Stories of historical criminals

If you’ve already seen all the famous landmarks the city has to offer, it’s time to go off the tourist trail and explore parts of the city that most people tend to overlook.

And this walking tour is perfect for doing so. With this tour, you’ll get to know all about the crooks and pirates of London, as well as other historical criminals and their misdoings.

Your tour will start in the morning near Tower Bridge, where you’ll meet your guide before heading off on a 5-mile walk to explore the docklands.

On your route, you’re going to visit lively neighborhoods, history-rich pubs, and waterfront highlights.

The stops on this tour include St. Katharine Docks, where you’ll get to see what they looked like in the 19th century and the transformation they’ve gone through since then, the Execution Dock where many pirates were executed and the West India Docks now houses numerous lively bars, restaurants, and cafés. 

The tour also aims to give you a personalized experience, which is why a group can only contain a maximum of 12 people.     

10. London Pubs, Beers, and Breweries – Private Black Taxi Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.0 out of 5 Stars, 5+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private transportation
• Bottles water
• Private guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle

If you’re new to London and don’t know your way around the city yet but still want to have a nice time drinking, I recommend opting for this tour .

It’s never easy to make the most out of drinking establishments when you’re in an unfamiliar place, but with this tour, you don’t need to risk missing the best places or getting lost.

On this private tour, you’re going to visit three of the most interesting breweries and historic pubs across the city, where you’ll learn more about the history and culture of all these places.

And since this is a private tour, you’re going to get personalized attention, so you have nothing to worry about.

Typically, the tour takes you to a number of interesting places, including the Mayflower Pub, the Town of Ramsgate, The Blind Beggar, the Holborn Viaduct, The Old Bank of England Pub, and the Admiralty.

11. The Best Pub Crawl in London Shoreditch

⭐️  RATING:  4.0 out of 5 Stars, 4+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• 12 top pubs and bars
• Unique nightlife scene
• Craft beer venues and cocktail bars

Shoreditch is famous for its vibrant nightlight and hipster cool, and this evening pub crawl tour is the best way to experience all that.

The best part is that with this tour, you’re going to head off the tourist track and feel like a local as you meet Londoners, party, and let loose.

Your tour guide is going to take you to 12 of the top pubs, craft beer venues, and cocktail bars that East London has to offer.

All the bars and pubs that you’ll go to on this tour have something interesting to offer.

For instance, the Angel is a red-brick-free house boozer where you’ll find a pool table and big-screen sports, while The Three Crowns is characterized by wood paneling and whitewashed walls and serves craft beer with seasonal British fare.

Similarly, the Old Fountain is a free house that has a roof terrace, classic pub food, and a rotating menu of cask ales.

Other stops include the Golden Bee, Old Street Records, and the Callooh Callay Bar.

12. Authentic British Food & Drink Private Tour in London – Local Taverns & Pubs

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• 2 local markets
• Alcoholic beverages
• Coffee break in a secret bar
• Private tour (London pub walking tour)

There’s no better way to enjoy the scrumptious food and drink that London has to offer than like a local on this private tour , which takes you through the East End.

This is truly a culinary adventure, ideal for those who want to taste authentic British cuisine while avoiding tourist-trap restaurants.

Your tour guide will take you to Spitalfields, where you’ll enjoy a coffee and an English sweet treat in one of the most impressive churches in the city.

Of course, your culinary tour will be incomplete without fish & chips washed down with beer, which is why your next step is a tavern that serves just that.   

Next, you’ll go to Brick Lane to visit a historic tavern famous for its Scottish egg (hard-boiled egg covered by sausage meat and fried or baked) and draught beers.

Your final stop is Middlesex Street, where you’ll eat a traditional British pie made with puff pastry filled with slow-cooked vegetables or meat.  

13. London Magical Pubs: drink and explore! : pub walks London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional tour guide
• Tales of the most important figures of the city
• Lively commentary from your guide
• Some of the most historic pubs in the city

History and pubs go hand in hand in London, and there’s no better way to learn about the past than with this walking tour of the most historic pubs present in the city.

On this tour, you’ll learn more about the important figures of London and where they spent all their free time.

For instance, you’ll see the last Victorian gin palace in the city and check out the pubs where Charles Dickens used to drink mead (a pub with a Victorian-style interior called the Lamb) and Queen Elizabeth I used to come to dance (Ye Olde Mitre, one of the most difficult pubs to find that also has no TV and where Samuel Jackson has also spent a good chunk of time).

The other three stops include the Crown Tavern which was frequented by Lenin before he went to Russia (it’s even rumored that he might have met Stalin here!), the Blackfriars Bridge which has an extravagant religious-themed interior, and the Seven Stars, one of the few places that survived the Great Fire of London.

At each stop, you can purchase drinks to taste their wares while they indulge you in a lively commentary. 

14. Notorious Pubs of White Chapel & the East End   

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional, friendly, and informative tour guide
• Free drink at every pub
• Hotel pickup
• Personalized experience with a private guide

The last pub crawl tour on this list that you should definitely check out is this tour of the notorious pubs of White Chapel and the East End that feature stories of murders, writers, and royalty.

On this tour, you’ll follow your guide to traditional pubs where you’ll enjoy a soft drink or beer.

As you step back in time, explore the historic side of the city and the hustle and bustle of the West End, and soak up the atmosphere, you’ll hear stories of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, torture, and treason.

The stops on this tour include the Blind Beggar Public House (home of a legendary gangland killing of the 20th century), the White Hart (a pub where the notorious Jack the Ripper used to pick potential victims), and Dirty Dicks (a fine London pub with a tragic history).

Since this is a private tour, you’re guaranteed to have a personalized experience. Hotel pickup is also available for your ease.

15. Private Walking Tour: Historic and Hidden Pubs of London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• One complimentary drink at each stop
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Professional local guide

As you might have noticed by now, no tour to London is complete without visiting at least one traditional pub, and this tour is going to take you to five of them.

As you explore the historic pubs, you’ll get undivided attention from your private guide and a glass of soft drink, wine, or beer at each stop.

Since this is a private tour, you can customize it to your preferences.

This way, you can spend longer at the places you like most.

You can also ask your guides for tips and explore London as the locals do.

The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and you can choose between morning and afternoon departures.

Overall, this is a nice and relaxed, enjoyable, and informative tour that’s tailored to your pace. Some of the most interesting stops on this tour include the Mayflower Pub, George, the only surviving galleried pub from the Tudor times, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, and Ye Olde Mitre.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best London Beatles Tours
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 11 Best London Bike Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
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• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
• 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
• 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 9 Best London East End Tours

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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THE 10 BEST London Bar, Club & Pub Tours

Bar, club & pub tours in london.

• Bars & Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Comedy Clubs
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Jazz Clubs & Bars
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• Karaoke Bars
• Coffeehouses
• Blues Clubs & Bars
• Country & Western Bars
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Trafalgar Square / Embankment
• City of London
• Covent Garden
• Notting Hill
• Spitalfields
• Good for Big Groups
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• Hidden Gems
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Liquid History Tours

2. Jeff Wayne's The War Of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience

3. SANDEMANs NEW Europe - London

4. Strawberry Tours

5. London Party Pub Crawl

6. See The Sights Tours

7. Guri in London

8. Gin Journey

9. Insider London - Day Tours

10. Withlocals

11. AleHunters

12. 1 Big Night Out Pub Crawl

13. Be At One Liverpool Street

14. Rosotravel - London Tours

15. The Shoreditch Pub Crawl

16. Pigeon Tours

17. Private Tour of London's Historic Pubs

18. Banana Pub Crawl

19. Shake, Rattle and Stir

20. London Pub Crawl

21. Nuts Pub Crawl London

22. Hard Rock Cafe - Europe

23. Imagine Experiences

24. Layered Reality

25. Travel Curious

26. In The City Tours

27. The London Pub Crawl Company

28. Fox Club Crawl

29. 1 Big Night Out Shoreditch Pub Crawl

30. Beyond the Map London

What travelers are saying

• Liquid History Tours
• See The Sights Tours
• Strawberry Tours
• Guri in London
• Insider London - Day Tours
• SANDEMANs NEW Europe - London
• Gin Journey
• Private Tour of London's Historic Pubs
• Layered Reality
• Jeff Wayne's The War Of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience
• The Shoreditch Pub Crawl
• 1 Big Night Out Pub Crawl
• London Party Pub Crawl

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Taylor Swift fans flock to London pub apparently referenced on new album

Staff at the Black Dog in Vauxhall ‘100% certain’ theirs is the pub mentioned in song of the same name

Last Thursday was shaping up to be a normal day for the Black Dog pub in south London , until its social media traffic mysteriously started ramping up.

The reason was that Taylor Swift’s new album had leaked, featuring a song that shared its name. Within an hour of its release, the small venue was deluged with excited fans, while its staff scoured CCTV for a sighting of the world’s biggest pop star.

Over the course of the weekend, thousands of devoted Swifties, as Taylor’s fans call themselves, descended on Vauxhall to feel closer to their favourite artist. The Black Dog’s lyrics reference spotting that an ex-boyfriend was entering the pub – most likely the British actor Joe Alwyn, who lives in the area.

Lily Bottomley, an events and social manager for SC Soho, the small hospitality group that owns the Black Dog, said the mention had taken the neighbourhood pub by surprise.

“I was like, wow, what a coincidence, that’s crazy. Then traffic got bigger, and then just exploded when her album went live. We created a TikTok, started posting, interacting with fans. We’re completely booked out this week and we’re nearly full for her tour dates. It’s been amazing for the business, the fans have been overwhelmingly positive,” she said.

The atmosphere was one of “celebration, super jovial, really good vibes” at the weekend, Bottomley said, adding that the pub had hired last-minute security to deal with the surge.

Bottomley said fans were particularly interested to learn whether it was Alwyn or Swift’s other British ex-boyfriend, Matty Healy, referred to in the song. She has confirmed that the pub has had “a certain blond regular in a few times”, in a coy reference to Alwyn’s hair colour.

She is “100% certain” the pub is the one referenced in the song, since Swift has previously talked about nights out in neighbouring Brixton.

She said: “We’ve been looking at past security footage [for Swift]. We haven’t found anything but you never know. I’ve heard that whenever she visits places she puts a cap on, so we could have missed it. We’d love to have her back.”

When the Guardian visited at the pub’s opening at midday on Monday, a steady stream of Swifties were paying their respects.

Emilia Linton, 24, and Katie McGowan, 28, had rushed to the Black Dog before flying home to Vienna, and were keen to secure some content for their Instagram Stories.

“It makes you feel the song more, because you know what she’s referencing,” Linton said. “She’s a lyrical genius, she introduced me to country, and she makes it cool to be a girl again.”

While McGowan had expected a dingier locals’ pub, Linton argued that the upmarket gastropub’s “sweet, girlie” ambience was more fitting.

The pair’s friend, Liz, 23, from Leeds, said: “It feels very like, if you’re American, what you’d think a pub was. I just don’t see Taylor Swift in a ’Spoons.”

She had previously enjoyed visiting the Beechwood cafe in LA, mentioned in a Harry Styles song, and was keen to recreate the experience. “I just love getting recommendations, from friends and stuff – including my close personal friend Taylor,” Liz said.

The trio welcomed fellow Swift fan Tyler Ewings, 18, on to their table. He was visiting from Plymouth. “I thought I’d come see what it’s like, take in the vibe of it,” he said. “Swifties are a very tight-knit community and actually kind of loving. If you go to a concert you’ll talk to loads of people outside the venue.”

He said the specificity of the pub’s mention made him feel more connected to Swift. “With London Boy she referenced all kinds of places in London, but to target one place, it feels like she’s gone in deeper.”

Julien Dimitrov, 30, had dragged his reluctant boyfriend to the pub on the final day of their holiday before returning to the Czech Republic. When he realised the Black Dog was in London, he was thrilled by the coincidence. “I immediately thought I must visit it,” he said.

The pub’s mention reflects all that he cherishes in Swift: “She’s so open, so friendly, so human, down to earth, relatable – even though she’s famous.”

• Taylor Swift

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Taylor Swift fans flock to London pub after reference on new album

The Black Dog in Vauxhall has increased its security and is already making preparations for when the American singer plays dates at Wembley Stadium this summer. The pub was name-checked on US singer's 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department.

Monday 22 April 2024 16:18, UK

A London pub mentioned on Taylor Swift's new album said the sudden international recognition was "surreal" - and had received "thousands of requests" from fans wanting to buy merchandise.

The Black Dog in Vauxhall was name-checked on the US singer's 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department , and fans have already been flocking to the pub with many buying pint glasses as souvenirs.

The pub said its security had been increased and expects more fans to visit during June and August when Swift is set to perform at Wembley Stadium as part of her Eras Tour.

Staff also urged the US singer to visit the pub and stop by for a drink.

The pub told Sky News it was exploring ways to create merchandise to showcase their new links with Swift - and was also looking into the possibility of launching a beer dedicated to the American superstar.

Amy Cowley, marketing consultant for the pub, said: "We're really happy to ride this wave. It has been surreal.

"We have received thousands of requests from Taylor Swift's fans regarding merchandise, so we are setting up a dedicated email address for people to contact us on.

"People just want things to show they have been to the pub, or to have something associated with The Black Dog.

"But the weekend was very busy. We had to turn people away because so many wanted to come in. We needed extra security to deal with it all.

"Taylor Swift has nine nights at Wembley in the summer, so we're preparing for that already.

"It would be something if she would come down to the pub and have a drink with us. We would love to do something fun with her."

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She said staff had checked CCTV footage to see if Swift had been to the pub with her former boyfriends, but "the answer is they absolutely could have been, but we're just not entirely sure".

A track on the album, called The Black Dog, directly references a "bar" of the same name in the lyrics.

Swift sings: "And your location, you forgot to turn it off. And so I watch as you walk. Into some bar called The Black Dog. And pierce new holes in my heart."

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The tracklist for Swift's record has already offered hints on whether songs refer to her English ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn.

Fans have also speculated whether the pub is a reference to The 1975 frontman Matty Healy, with whom she briefly had a relationship.

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Ms Cowley said they were leaving it to the fans to work out the references on the album: "If anybody can crack it, it's [the Swifties], right?"

The pub has been stocking more pint glasses after fans bought them as souvenirs - and said the international attention had given their trade a huge boost.

"The fans are really supportive. Everyone has been keen to sample the atmosphere," added Ms Cowley.

"We're a small team and a well-loved team. It has been a tough industry in recent years, but we've been one of the lucky ones.

"But this has given us another big boost and is like the icing on the cake, really."

Related Topics

• Taylor Swift