If there’s one thing London does well, it’s a good pub. In fact, the city has been smashing the pub game for centuries, home to everything from old taverns steeped in history, to iconic pubs that have earned cult status in more recent years. So, in celebration of International Beer Day on August 1, we bring you a round up of some of the most legendary locals, historic haunts, and unforgettable places to raise a glass.
1. The Spaniards Inn
Something of a literary legend, this Grade II listed Hampstead pub features in Charles Dickens’ Pickwick Papers and Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Also thought to be the birthplace of highwayman Dick Turpin, The Spaniards Inn is now a bit of a hotspot for sighting local celebs. Its quaint interior and beautiful back garden are steeped in the kind of literary charm Dickens himself might have enjoyed.
📍Spaniards Road, NW3 7JJ
2. The George Inn
Another London pub that was well-known to Dickens, The George Inn dates back to the 16th century and has been nicknamed ‘Shakespeare’s local’ for its proximity to the Globe Theatre. It even has a three-sided amphitheater courtyard, once hired as a performance space, before the Globe and the Rose had opened.
📍75 Borough High Street, SE1 1NH
3. The Hawley Arms
The Hawley Arms holds a special place in Camden’s music history, once known for being a favourite of Amy Winehouse. But the pub also gained notoriety in the noughties as a hang out for plenty of other big names in the indie music scene, such as Razorlight and Arctic Monkeys. This spot has a welcoming, unpretentious vibe and there’s even a cosy roof terrace tucked away up the stairs.
📍2 Castlehaven Road, NW1 8QU
4. The Freemasons Arms
Just a stone’s throw away from Hampstead Heath, the Freemasons Arms prides itself on offering the country pub experience in London. The building dates back to the early 19th century, and many of its original features are still intact, most notably, the full size skittle alley in the basement. One of only two left in the entire city, this alley is where people would gather to play cheese and pin, a game that dates all the way to the 17th century. It still holds scheduled games and tournaments today!
📍32 Downshire Hill, Hampstead Heath, NW3 1NT
5. The Marquis
From film cameos to music gigs, The Marquis in Covent Garden has an impressive CV when it comes to cultural moments. It has featured in the likes of Mary Poppins Returns and Last Christmas – but most recently, the pub became the talk of the town after hosting a surprise gig for Green Day in November 2023. Star-power aside, The Marquis is consistently ranked in the top 10% of London pubs, thanks to its cosy and inviting atmosphere. Where better to enjoy a pint this International Beer Day?
📍51-52 Chandos Place, WC2N 4HS
6. The Good Mixer
A true symbol of the Britpop era, The Good Mixer is widely believed to be the very place where the infamous Blur vs Oasis feud first kicked off. Back then, it was a second home to indie icons, music journalists, and hopeful newcomers alike. Today, the pub stays true to its roots, championing both grassroots talent and music lovers. There you can watch live music every Thursday and Sunday, DJs every Friday and Saturday, and enjoy free entry all week long.
📍30 Inverness St, London NW1 7HJ
7. The Troubador
This Earl’s Court pub is known for giving a stage to artists early in their careers, many of whom later went on to become global superstars. From Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix to Florence & The Machine and Adele, The Troubadour has a seriously impressive roster of past-performers under its belt. It’s still a live music venue to this day, and it even has a cute and cosy garden tucked away in the back.
📍265-267 Old Brompton Rd, London SW5 9JA
Please drink responsibly.