A pint at a wooden bar, a table full of oysters, or a long lunch that effortlessly turns into drinks: a good pub is essential for a weekend in London. Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between a classic interior and good food. There are plenty of places where both are taken seriously.
This selection of pubs in London ranges from Notting Hill and Chelsea to Bermondsey and Kentish Town. Some are perfect for a quick drink, while others are places where you’d want to book a table and make an evening of it. Or reserve for the Sunday Roast. Here are ten charming spots, each offering something unique and worth exploring.
My Favorite Pubs in London
1. The Cow: Guinness and Oysters in Notting Hill
At The Cow, it’s not just about the pint. This pub is also renowned for its oysters and other seafood dishes. Guinness and oysters is a famed combo here, though you’re welcome to opt for a glass of wine instead.
Downstairs is the pub and the restaurant is located upstairs. I’d visit here after an afternoon exploring Notting Hill, when you’re not quite ready to return to your hotel and a small snack likely turns into something more.
Address: 89 Westbourne Park Road, Notting Hill.
2. The Walmer Castle: A Pub on Ledbury Road
The Walmer Castle is located on Ledbury Road, amidst the shops and restaurants of Notting Hill. A great spot to remember if you’re discovering this area and want to stop off along the way.
Inside, you’ll find a classic pub interior with plenty of character and a typically British menu. It’s a place to enjoy a drink, or you can plan a lunch or dinner here.
Pair The Walmer Castle with a stroll along Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road. Especially handy if you need a seat and someone to pour you a drink after shopping.
Address: 58 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill.
3. The Garrison: Dining on Bermondsey Street
The Garrison is located on Bermondsey Street, one of my favorite streets in London. You’ll find restaurants, shops, and wine bars all close by, making it easy to combine a visit to this pub with an afternoon in the area.
This is a spot where the food is a main attraction. The decor is more modern than a classic pub. There’s also a charming terrace.
Planning to explore Borough Market or the London Bridge area? This is a 25-minute walk away and a great spot away from the tourist crowds. Be sure to reserve for dinner.
Address: 99–101 Bermondsey Street, Bermondsey.
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4. The Anglesea Arms: A Classic Pub in South Kensington
The Anglesea Arms is in South Kensington. Benches out front and greenery on the facade make it exactly the sort of pub where you’d want to stop during a walk to see what’s on the menu.
Inside, you’ll find a classic setting. This location is well worth a visit while spending a day in South Kensington, perhaps after a museum visit or a walk in the area. Note the location: there’s also an Anglesea Arms in Hammersmith.
Address: 15 Selwood Terrace, South Kensington.
5. The Orange: Pizza and Pub in Belgravia
At The Orange on Pimlico Road, the pub is on the ground floor with a restaurant above. You can drop in for a drink or make it a longer lunch. The menu features wood-fired pizzas alongside more traditional British dishes like fish & chips.
Its location by Orange Square makes it a great stop if you’re strolling around Belgravia or shopping near Elizabeth Street and Sloane Square. Inside, it’s brighter and more polished than some classic London pubs.
If after lunch you’re not keen to travel further: The Orange also has a few hotel rooms.
Address: 37 Pimlico Road, Belgravia.
6. The Alfred Tennyson: Lunch on Motcomb Street
The Alfred Tennyson is at a corner among the Belgravia shops. Downstairs is the pub; upstairs is Alf's restaurant. It shares the same owners as The Orange.
A perfect stop if you’re heading to Belgravia. First, peruse the shops on Motcomb Street, then settle in for a meal and see if you have time for the rest of your plans.
The Alfred Tennyson and The Orange are both in Belgravia but offer distinct experiences. Choose the one that fits best with your walk and where you’d prefer to dine.
Address: 10 Motcomb Street, Belgravia.
7. The Cadogan Arms: A Pub on King’s Road
King’s Road is one of those streets where you can easily linger longer than planned. Browsing shops, ducking into side streets, and popping into places. The Cadogan Arms sits on this Chelsea street and offers a warm welcome.
The interior is classic and richly appointed, with lots of wood and details fitting for a traditional pub. The menu is typically British with Scotch Egg and Crispy Lamb Ribs; it’s also a delightful spot for a Sunday Roast.
Address: 298 King’s Road, Chelsea.
8. The Surprise: A Pub in a Side Street of Chelsea
The Surprise is nestled on Christchurch Terrace, hidden among the homes of Chelsea. Here, you’re away from the bustle, but King’s Road isn’t far. A true local spot, where neighbors pop in for a drink or meal.
Grab a seat at the bar downstairs, with the restaurant upstairs. Visit on a Sunday for the Sunday Roast and take your time. This isn’t the sort of lunch you squeeze between appointments.
Address: 6 Christchurch Terrace, Chelsea.
9. The Parakeet: Dining in Kentish Town
For The Parakeet, head to Kentish Town, north of the center. This isn’t the most obvious stop if you’re spending just an afternoon around Westminster. It’s more a pub to plan an evening around, or to visit if you’re staying in this part of London.
You’ll find a mix of pub ambiance and a kitchen that cooks over an open flame. The bar is perfect for a drink, but dining here is excellent too.
Address: 256 Kentish Town Road, Kentish Town.
10. The Old Bank of England: A Pub in a Former Bank
With high ceilings, chandeliers, and a grand hall: The Old Bank of England on Fleet Street looks different from most pubs on this list. The building was once a Bank of England branch (since 1888). Today, you come here for a drink or meal amidst a stunning interior.
This is a larger, busier setting than the small neighborhood pubs in Chelsea and Notting Hill, making it a fun variation in this selection.
Address: 194 Fleet Street, London.
Which London Pub Will You Choose?
If I had to pick, I’d go for The Surprise or The Cow. The Surprise for a long Sunday roast in the residential streets of Chelsea, away from the crowds. The Cow for a pint of Guinness with oysters after an afternoon in Notting Hill. Both are great reasons to keep your plans for the rest of the day more flexible.
Practical Tips for Visiting Pubs in London
Want to just have a drink? Some pubs have a separate restaurant area, and a table there isn’t always intended for just drinks.
For an extended lunch, dinner, or Sunday roast, booking a table is wise, especially on weekends.
All My London Addresses on the Map
Want to see which pubs, restaurants, and other spots are nearby while on the go? In my Google Maps with e-book, I’ve gathered my selection by neighborhood.
Useful if you decide to spontaneously drop by somewhere after a stroll through Notting Hill, or if you want to pre-select restaurants around your hotel. Find the London map here.
