Best Local Pubs in London

If you are travelling to London, a trip to the Big Ben, checking out the Rosetta Stone in the British Museum, and visiting other famous landmarks are a must. These trips definitely lead to a fun and memorable day. And what could be a better way to end your busy trips down the London streets?

Your great stay Via Limehouse Hostel London would not be complete without a good night drink. So we listed down the best local pubs near your Youth Hostels Central London that we strongly recommend to pay a visit.

Lamb and Flag

Lamb and Flag was once called the “Bucket of Blood” in the 1800s due to the bare-knuckle fistfights held here. However, that was all in the past, because this pub is much more family-friendly now. Heck, you can even get free pints if you sign up to their mailing list.

This pub has been operating since 1772. Today, you can enjoy a good drink in this pub with its centuries-old wall hangings, worn wooden bar and photographs of famous author Charles Dickens, who was believed to be a regular here.

However, the area can get uncomfortably crowded, being located at the busy Covent Garden.

The Spaniards Inn

Famous for its literary history, the Spaniards Inn in Hampstead Heath has served famous men of literature such as Dickens and John Keats. The inn was even mentioned in Dickens' “The Pickwick Papers”, while it is said that Keats' “Ode to a Nightingale” was written in the garden.

The Spaniards Inn was built in 1585 as a tollbooth at the Bishop of London's estate entrance. While the trek to this pub can be quite a challenge, it is a perfect pit stop to enjoy a good night drink if you are staying at some Youth Hostels Central London.

The Mayflower

The Mayflower, named after the ship that set sail for New England in July 1620, is another of London's oldest pubs. Over the years, this nautical-themed pub at 117 Rotherhithe Street has undergone various name changes since the 1550 until it was substantially remodelled in the 1700s and settled for its current name.

Considered to be the oldest pub on the River Thames, The Mayflower boasts of its unique atmosphere and a great drinking environment. The interior gives off a nautical vibe, with beams and wooden panelling constructing the pub while model ships, rifles, pulleys, and ropes decorate the ceilings and sideboards.

During warm days, you can even enjoy a drink while gazing at the stunning London Bridge through the pub's deck overlooking the Thames.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Originally called as the Horn Tavern, this centuries-old pub at 145 Fleet Street has stood since 1538 until it was ravaged by the Great Fire of London in 1666. After being rebuilt, it was renamed Cheshire Cheese in 1667 and has since then served ale aficionados, locals, and tourists alike.

The interior of this building feels more like a museum than a pub, with a maze of rooms, passageways, and vaulted cellars below dating back to the 13th century. With its dark corners, open fire and original portraits hanging on its walls, this old-fashioned pub warps you back in time as you enjoy a good night drink.

Being run by the Samuel Smith brewery, Cheshire Cheese offers reasonably priced pints for its customers.