The Best Pubs in London

It's always pub season as far as we're concerned and in London, we have more than enough to choose from. So when coming to choose some of the very best, it was an almost impossible decision but we have a good mix of places which offer you something a bit different. The perfect places to hang out with your friends, chill out in the sun and enjoy some ice-cold refreshment.

The Wenlock & Essex, Islington

Image credit: Wenlock & Essex

The Wenlock & Essex is known for its "unusual" selection of beers, where you'll be given the option to taste some truly hidden gems. They also offer a selection of cocktails and premium spirits in what is one of the smartest bars in the Islington area. Any trip to North London can be made better with a visit here.

The Hawley Arms, Camden

The Hawley is one of the most recognisable pubs in the Camden area. Known as Amy Winehouse's favourite pub, it was her regular and is also a frequent haunt of some icons of the indie music scene including Wolf Alice. There's always a good time to be had here and of course, the music selection is incredible.

The Coach & Horses, Soho

Image credit: Coach and Horses, Soho

The Coach & Horses is a pub with a rich history. With its eye-catching red and white colour scheme, you can't really miss it in Soho. A London institution, you'll find plenty of people favouring this as their go-to place for a pint and a catch-up with their friends. It has an endless amount of charm.

The Crown & Shuttle, Shoreditch

Image credit: Crown & Shuttle

Here, in the bustling streets of Shoreditch, you'll find a retreat that is the perfect place to sit down in the sun. Grab yourself a bench at The Crown and Shuttle in one of the area's most sociable pubs. With the terrace offering you plenty of rays of the sun, this place is a Summer hotspot. 

The Shacklewell Arms, Dalston

Image credit: Shacklewell Arms

The Shacklewell Arms is not only a pub but also a music venue. When you've finished thrashing around in the basement, you can wash away the sweat with a cold one. The night doesn't often end with the gig, plenty of people stay and socialise here afterwards and someone may even kick off the karaoke.

The Four Thieves, Clapham

There is never a dull moment at The Four Thieves. There's always something going on here whether it be karaoke, comedy nights, bottomless brunches and good old-fashioned pub quizzes. That's also not including the number of games they have to play with arcade machines and even virtual reality being in the mix. All this paired with drinks makes for a brilliant combo.

Crown & Anchor, Brixton

Here, at the Crown and Anchor in Brixton which opened in 2011, up to 25 taps on at a time, offering a fantastic range of ale, cider and craft beer. Determined to seek out the best brewers from across the world, they are constantly bringing in new tastes and you should get down to see what they have on offer.

The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park

The Faltering Fullback is one of the nicest pubs in Finsbury Park. With a rooftop terrace that is surrounded by plenty of green scenery and an indoor hall with screens on to watch all of the live sporting action, you can't go wrong here. The Thai food they serve is pretty special too.

The Sun Tavern, Bethnal Green

The Sun Tavern offers punters a selection of classic cocktails and an instantly welcoming environment. Not only do they have amazing local ales but they frequently have live music and resident DJs to lift the atmosphere of the place even more. If there cocktails leave you wanting more you can even order a delivery of them right to your door.

The Blue Anchor, Hammersmith

The Blue Anchor in Hammersmith is an iconic West London sight. You'll find it located right on the banks of the river Thames, a short walk from Hammersmith Bridge. Originally license in 1722, it has endured the test of time which shows you just how highly regarded this scenic pub is.

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

Header image credit: The Crown and Shuttle