LONDON
PUB GUIDE
101 of London's Best Pubs to Visit in 2024
Love London? Make 2024 the year to explore a few of the best pubs with our free guide 💂 🇬🇧
24 James Street Marylebone London W1U 1EL
The Lamb & Flag, a Grade II listed Georgian pub in Westminster, exudes a timeless charm with its red granite facade and etched glass. Established in 1777 and steeped in history, the pub boasts a cosy, wood-panelled interior dating back to 1813. It offers a perfect blend of traditional British pub fare, from hand-battered fish and chips to hearty pies, complemented by a superb selection of cask ales and an extensive wine list. The family-friendly environment and beer garden make it ideal for sports enthusiasts and casual diners alike, promising a warm welcome and a memorable experience amidst the bustling Oxford and Bond Street shopping areas.
23 Exmouth Market London EC1R 4QL
The Exmouth Arms is an imposing Victorian pub with a tiled green facade surrounded by the trendy independent stores of Exmouth Market. The pub has an atmospheric interior with its dark leather banquettes, brick walls, stained glass and oxblood red highlights. This is a traditional boozer with a focus on craft beers. Tables outside are often packed with people soaking up the buzz of the market. This is a place to stop for a drink however on Fridays and Saturdays, when the market is in full swing, sample the surrounding food stalls, offering delicious produce.
50 Great Dover St, London SE1 4YG
Tucked away yet a mere stroll from Borough tube station, The Roebuck stands out as one of the city's most picturesque Victorian pubs. With its striking mansard roofing, Dutch gables, and a unique green dome, this venue combines historical charm with a vibrant atmosphere. Inside, you'll find a large oval bar serving locally sourced ales and ciders, alongside a diverse food menu acclaimed for its sustainability and seasonal flair. The Roebuck's commitment to local suppliers ensures a fresh, enticing offering, from sumptuous Sunday roasts to inventive vegan burgers that rival any meat counterpart. Upstairs, the function room—once graced by Charlie Chaplin—now hosts an array of events from comedy nights to quizzes, all within a cosy yet airy space that invites guests to linger longer in this offbeat gem.
18 Wilton Row, London SW1X 7NR
Hidden down a secluded Belgravian alley, The Grenadier is more than just a pub—it's a portal to London's storied past. Originally an officers' mess for the 1st Regiment of Foot Guards in 1720, this historic haunt was reborn as The Grenadier in 1818, commemorating the Battle of Waterloo. Frequented by luminaries from the Duke of Wellington to Madonna, its walls, festooned with military memorabilia, echo with tales of valor and the ghostly whispers of a card-cheating subaltern. Despite its illustrious clientele, The Grenadier remains charmingly understated, with a warm welcome and a pint of ale ready for those who navigate its hidden path.
List curated by Simon Ridgwell.
May 2024.
Simon@bestofengland.com