London pub tradition is ancient, but do you know some pubs have been catering for over 400 years? Any visitors to London will doubtlessly be induced to take a tour of the city’s most historic pubs centuries-old watering holes popular to host the likes of literary legends as well as legions of thirsty enthusiasts who desire togetherness, good times, and delicious plates of fish and chips.
Many of these traditional pubs are steeped in history. They still contain original features dating back generations, and even if they are upgraded now, they still retain those iconic houses.
Imagine sipping a beer in the same place where Samuel Johnson, Charles Dickens, and many other legends have raised a glass.
From middle-edge pubs to historic coaching inns, these pubs have seen world wars, uprisings, and centuries of London’s evolutions.
If you love history, good wine and beer, and a cozy atmosphere, the guide listed below the 5 best and oldest most historic pubs in London you should visit once. Let’s dig deep.
Contents
5 Oldest pubs in London await you
1. The black Friar
The Black Friar is one of London’s oldest and most unique pubs. It is built on the site of the old Dominican friary. The pub was built in 1875 on the site of 13the century Dominican friary, it promotes incredible Art Nouveau interiors, stained glass, patchworks, and bishops on the walls.
Why to visit:
- It is a stunning Art Nouveau pub built in the Middle Ages.
- The oldest pub includes a curved wooden monk and detailed patchworks or mosaics.
- The stunning curved front makes it one of London’s best and most unique pubs.
- The pub has an old cozy atmosphere with classic British amber brew and ample pub food.
- The pub indulges you in the nostalgia.
Location: 174, Queen Victoria St, EC4V 4EG, London, UK
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 11.30 am to 11.00 pm
Sunday: 12. 00 pm to
Contact No.: 020 7236 5474
Ratings: 4.1 out of 5
2. The Old Bell
The Old Bell pub has impressive architecture and is one of London’s oldest pubs. Sir Christopher Wren built the pub as his masons in 1670 and rebuilt it by the Olde Watling. The pub is famous for its classic ales.
Why to visit:
- A pub built by Sir Christopher Wren, rebuilding St. Bride’s Chruch.
- Oldest and unique interiors with wooden beams and classic pubs.
- It is a favorite haunt for Fleet Street Journalists.
- It offers classic British ales and ample pub food.
Location: 95, Fleet Street, EC4Y 1DH, London, UK
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 10.00 am to 11.00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 10.00 am to 1.00 am
Sunday: 10.00 am to 10.30 pm
Contact no.: 020 7372 4290
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
3. The Seven Stars
The seven stars behind the Royal Court of Justice were developed in the year 1602, which is one of the oldest pubs in London.
The pub survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, as it is the oldest historic pub in the city.
The atmosphere in the pub is unconventional and legal themed, and it is located in the heart of London.
Why to visit:
- The pub survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, as it is one of the historic pubs in London.
- It has a cozy ambiance and historical interior and you will deeply indulge in the nostalgia here.
- The pub has the icon of a cat, Ray brown who wears an Elizabethan ruff collar.
- Wide range of classic as well as crafted beers and drinks.
Location: 53, Carey St, WC2A 3Qs, London, UK
Opening hours: All day 12.00 pm to 10.00 pm
Contact No.: 02072428521
Ratings: 4 out of 5
4. The George Inn
The Gorge Inn was built to serve people from 1583, London’s last galleried inn. This pub has welcomed various famous faces.
Shakespeare was a regular guest here, and his plays were performed here in the courtyard for years. Nowadays biggest attraction here is Smokin’ Sessions which offers BBQ meats, beats, and beer.
Why to visit:
- This is the last surviving galleried in London.
- Historic, exterior with wooden balconies overlooking a courtyard.
- Large beer garden.
- The pub is owned by a national trust.
Location: 74, Borough High St, SE1 1NH, London, UK
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday: 11.00 am to 11.00 pm
Thursday to Saturday: 11.00 am to 12.00 am
Sunday: 11.00 am to 11.00 pm
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
5. The Grapes
The grapes pub is a bunch of grapes that has stood on the rough Limehouse reach for 500 years was built in 1583. Grapes Pub survived the Second World War and rebuilt the friendly atmosphere of a local for Limehouse residents. The pub has welcomed sailors, smugglers, and even famous literary figures over the centuries.
Why to visit:
- The pub is located on the riverside and has a maritime history.
- The enchanting ambiance and cozy, historic interiors include low ceilings and wooden beams.
- The stunning riverside terrace.
- The pub is co-owned by Sir Alan McKellen.
Location: 76, Narrow Street, E14 8BP, London, UK
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 12.00 pm to 11.00 pm
Sunday: 12.00 pm to 10.30 pm
Contact No.: 020 7987 4396
Ratings: 4 out of 5
Conclusion
In conclusion, The oldest pub in London is more than just a pub where you visit and grab a drink, they are a living part of London’s rich history. Each of the pubs included above has unique stories, whether it is the literary charm of the Grapes pub or the Stunning art of the Black Friar pub.
As you walk through these historic pieces, their wooden floors, and centuries-old walls remind you about the footsteps of poets, sailors, and monks as well.
Every pub included above the list has survived the test of time right from the Great Fire of London to World War II, which makes them a timeless landmark of the city. So next time you visit London must visit any of these pubs and raise a glass and toast the rich history of London.