London's oldest pubs

Discover the most historic pubs in the British capital, establishments that have witnessed centuries of tradition and culture. This selection includes medieval taverns and inns that have maintained their charm over time. Explore the corners where generations of Londoners and visitors have gathered. It is an essential guide for history buffs and beer lovers alike.

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  1. 1

    Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

    58 Global Votes
    • Es uno de los pubs más antiguos de Londres

      (+4)

    This pub is a historical landmark in London, rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire, with records of a tavern on the same site dating back to 1538. Its long history and association with literary figures such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain make it a cornerstone of London's pub heritage.

  2. 2

    The George Inn

    50 Global Votes
    • Único Coaching Inn con galerías en la fachada original que queda en Londres

      (+4)

    The George Inn is a pub with a history dating back to the 16th century, rebuilt in 1676 after a fire. It is the only surviving galleried coaching inn with its original facade in London, making it a unique architectural testament to the city's ancient inns.

  3. 3

    The Prospect of Whitby

    47 Global Votes
    • Es uno de los pubs más antiguos de Londres

      (+4)

    This pub is one of London's oldest, with origins dating back to 1520, and is considered the city's oldest riverside pub. Its long history and location by the Thames, with an atmosphere that evokes centuries past, make it an iconic place. It retains original features such as its flagstone floor and a pewter-topped bar, offering an authentic and historically rich experience.

  4. 4

    The Lamb and Flag

    43 Global Votes
    • Histórico

      (+4)

    This pub is an establishment with a history dating back to at least 1623, making it one of London's oldest surviving pubs. Its long history and traditional English pub atmosphere, frequented by figures like Charles Dickens, establish it as a historical landmark in the city.

  5. 5

    The Spaniards Inn

    42 Global Votes
    • Tesoro histórico

      (+3)

    The Spaniards Inn boasts a history dating back to 1585, making it one of London's oldest establishments. Its origins as a coaching inn and its connection to historical figures and legends, such as highwayman Dick Turpin, underscore its deep roots in the city's past.

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  7. 6

    Ye Olde Mitre

    25 Global Votes
    • Maravilloso pub histórico

      (+4)

    This London pub stands out for its profound history, with origins dating back to 1546 or 1547, making it one of the city's oldest establishments. Despite being rebuilt in 1772, it maintains its traditional atmosphere and historic charm, offering an authentic English pub experience.

  8. 7

    The French House

    15 Global Votes
    • Pub histórico

      (+1)

    This pub is a historic establishment in London, with a rich history dating back to 1891. It has been a significant cultural meeting point, frequented by artists and writers, and played an important role during World War II as an unofficial headquarters for Charles de Gaulle.

  9. 8

    The Old Bell

    12 Global Votes
    • Precioso pub del siglo XVII

      (+4)

    The Old Bell is a historic pub built in 1678 by Sir Christopher Wren, making it one of London's oldest establishments with a significant architectural legacy. Its origins are tied to the city's reconstruction after the Great Fire, serving the masons working on St Bride's Church. This pub offers a tangible connection to London's history through its architecture and its long-standing tradition as a tavern.

  10. 9

    The Mayflower

    0 Global Votes
    • El pub más antiguo en la ribera del Támesis

      (+3)

    This pub is considered the oldest on the banks of the Thames, with records dating back to 1550 under previous names like The Shippe. Its rich history is intertwined with that of the famous Mayflower ship, whose captain, Christopher Jones, is buried nearby. It offers an authentic experience with river views and a traditional atmosphere.

  11. 10

    Cittie of Yorke

    0 Global Votes

    This pub is a historic establishment with a presence on the site dating back to 1430, making it one of London's oldest drinking venues. Its current building, rebuilt in the 1920s, evokes an 'Olde England' and is Grade II listed, also featuring in CAMRA's National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors.

Frequently asked questions

This ranking evaluates and highlights the pubs with the longest and most documented history in London, focusing on their age and historical relevance within the city.
Age is determined based on known historical records, such as the date of its first opening, or the date of its reconstruction if it has survived events like the Great Fire of London, demonstrating its continuous legacy.
It means that the pub, or at least its location and function, existed before 1666 and, although it may have been damaged or rebuilt, it maintained its identity and activity as a pub after the fire, highlighting its historical resilience.

How we built this ranking and what to consider when choosing

This ranking has been compiled to offer an insight into London's oldest pubs with the most historical legacy. We focus on establishments that have been pillars of the community throughout the centuries, reflecting the city's rich history.

  • Selection is based on the establishment date or first documented mention of the pub, prioritizing those with a continuous history as a 'public house'.
  • Special consideration is given to pubs that have survived significant historical events, such as the Great Fire of London, or that have been rebuilt and maintained their essence over time.
  • Pubs recognized for their antiquity in various sources and lists of historic London pubs are included.
  • Contextual information about each pub's founding, reconstructions, and historical anecdotes contributes to its inclusion and position in the ranking.
  • Documented Age: The pub must have a clear establishment date or historical reference placing it among London's oldest.
  • Historical Continuity: Priority is given to establishments that have maintained their function as a pub throughout the centuries, even if they have been rebuilt.
  • Cultural and Historical Relevance: Pubs that have been frequented by notable figures or have legends and anecdotes associated with their long history.
  • Survival of Key Events: The pub's resilience or reconstruction after events like the Great Fire of London is valued, demonstrating its legacy.