2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.1
The Coach & Horses Soho, Greater London City Pub
Step into Soho’s timeless heart at The Coach & Horses, a legendary London pub where literary history, real ale, and old-school charm still hold sway. Tucked along bustling Greek Street, this Grade II-listed gem has welcomed punters, playwrights, and pint-lovers for over 150 years. With wood-panelled walls, vintage interiors, and a no-nonsense pub menu, it’s an atmospheric spot for a casual pint or a cosy chat. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this Soho classic never misses a beat.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.2
Blythe Hill Tavern Forest Hill, Greater London
A true local treasure in South London, the Blythe Hill Tavern is the kind of pub people cross the city for. Traditional, no-frills, and full of warmth, this Irish-run freehouse is known for its immaculate real ale, friendly atmosphere, and time-honoured charm. With its three snug bar areas, dartboard, and garden out back, it’s the perfect place for a quiet pint, a proper chat, and a taste of classic London pub culture done absolutely right.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.3
The Devonshire Soho, Greater London
A classic London pub reimagined with a modern, elevated twist, The Devonshire brings new life to Soho’s pub scene without losing an ounce of tradition. Tucked down Denman Street, just off Piccadilly Circus, it blends handsome interiors, expertly poured pints, and a buzzy upstairs grill room that’s already earned a cult following. Whether you’re after a proper pint, a perfectly chargrilled chop, or a taste of Soho’s next great hangout, The Devonshire delivers with charm, class, and character.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.4
Skehan's New Cross, Greater London
Tucked on a quiet corner in New Cross, Skehan’s is a proper Irish freehouse with a big heart and a loyal local following. With its cosy wood-clad bar, friendly welcome, great Guinness, and secret beer garden, this pub punches well above its weight. Throw in Thai food, regular live music, and one of the best Sunday vibes in SE London, and you’ve got a gem that feels like home — whether you’re a local or a lucky first-timer.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.5
The Harp Covent Garden, Greater London
Small in size but huge in reputation, The Harp is a Covent Garden institution beloved by ale lovers, locals, and theatre-goers alike. Tucked just off Trafalgar Square, this narrow, colourful pub is famous for its stellar selection of real ales, friendly bar staff, and stained-glass windows that frame a perfect pint. A true characterful gem, The Harp’s welcoming buzz, rotating taps, and no-nonsense charm make it a must-visit for anyone seeking proper pub culture in central London.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.6
The French House Soho, Greater London
A Soho legend with bohemian flair, The French House at 49 Dean Street is a historic and eccentric pub that has long attracted artists, actors, and free spirits. Known for serving drinks in half-pints only and a strict no-mobiles policy, it champions conversation, culture, and tradition. With its Franco-British charm, stripped-back interior, and bustling yet intimate vibe, this is the heart and soul of old Soho — where stories are swapped and history still lives on in every sip.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.7
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.12
The Coach & Horses Soho, Greater London City Pub
Step into Soho’s timeless heart at The Coach & Horses, a legendary London pub where literary history, real ale, and old-school charm still hold sway. Tucked along bustling Greek Street, this Grade II-listed gem has welcomed punters, playwrights, and pint-lovers for over 150 years. With wood-panelled walls, vintage interiors, and a no-nonsense pub menu, it’s an atmospheric spot for a casual pint or a cosy chat. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this Soho classic never misses a beat.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.13
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.18
Chesham Arms London, Greater London
Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, the Chesham Arms is a hidden gem for those seeking a quintessential British pub experience. Situated in Greater London, this charming venue delights patrons with its blend of vintage décor and contemporary flair. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe, the Chesham Arms attracts a lively crowd of locals and tourists alike. Whether you're socializing at the bar or enjoying live music, this timeless pub ensures a memorable night out filled with hearty laughs and good cheer.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.19
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.27
Ye Olde Mitre Holborn, Greater London
Tucked away down a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it alleyway off Hatton Garden, Ye Olde Mitre is a magical time capsule pub with roots stretching back to 1546. Once part of the estate of the Bishops of Ely, this tiny tavern brims with charm — all crooked beams, leaded windows, and low-ceilinged snug rooms. Beloved by locals, legal minds, and real ale enthusiasts alike, it’s a true hidden gem where history, tradition, and a well-poured pint come together in perfect harmony.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.28
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.31
Dartmouth Arms London, Greater London
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Greater London, the Dartmouth Arms is your quintessential neighborhood pub, where the warmth of tradition meets a lively social scene. With its cozy interiors, vintage decor, and a fantastic array of local ales and craft beers, it’s a hotspot for laid-back evenings and spirited gatherings alike. Whether you’re a local enjoying a pint after work or a tourist soaking in the atmosphere, the Dartmouth Arms offers an inviting blend of friendliness and fun.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.32
The Audley Public House Mayfair, Greater London
A masterpiece of heritage and design, The Audley Public House brings traditional pub culture to the heart of Mayfair with elevated style. Lovingly restored by Artfarm, the pub retains its Victorian soul while embracing a striking modern edge, blending original details with contemporary British art. Whether you're sipping a pint of real ale at the beautifully tiled bar or enjoying refined pub food upstairs at Mount St. Restaurant, The Audley is where tradition and taste meet seamlessly on Mount Street.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.33
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.34
The Churchill Arms Kensington, Greater London
A riot of colour and character, The Churchill Arms is one of London’s most iconic and instantly recognisable pubs. Famous for its over-the-top floral displays and Churchill memorabilia, this Kensington institution blends old-school British pub charm with a surprise twist — a popular Thai restaurant tucked in the back. With hanging baskets spilling onto the pavement, historic interiors, and a warm, eccentric energy, it’s a must-visit for pub lovers, tourists, and locals alike.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.35
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.38
Bradley's Spanish Bar , Greater London
Tucked away in the heart of Greater London, Bradley's Spanish Bar offers a lively escape with a dash of Iberian flair. Known for its cozy atmosphere and vibrant energy, this hidden gem is a hit amongst locals and tourists alike. Step inside to find a retro-style interior adorned with eclectic Spanish trinkets, while lively tunes and spirited conversations fill the air. With its extensive selection of Spanish wines, beers, and delicious tapas, Bradley's fosters a friendly and sociable vibe that's perfect for unwinding and mingling with friends or someone special.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.40
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.45
The Seven Stars Holborn, Greater London
Tucked beside the Royal Courts of Justice, The Seven Stars is a wonderfully eccentric slice of London history. One of the city’s oldest surviving pubs, dating back to 1602, it brims with character: low ceilings, crooked timber beams, and a resident cat in ruff collar named Raymond. Known for its witty chalkboard musings, strong legal crowd, and traditional British food, this Holborn hideaway is a rare and beloved institution where time seems to pause — and the pints are proper.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.46
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.47
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese London, Greater London
Step back in time at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a legendary Fleet Street pub that’s steeped in London lore. Rebuilt shortly after the Great Fire of 1666, it’s a true time capsule with sawdust floors, twisting staircases, low ceilings, and centuries of literary history. Once frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, this dark and cosy labyrinth of bars and cellars offers cask ales, traditional pub fare, and one of the most evocative drinking experiences in the city.
2024 The Standard - The 50 Best Pubs In London - No.48