The Top 10 Historical Pubs In London

London is the cultural hub of Britain and nowhere is this more clearly demonstrated than from within its plethora of quintessentially English pubs. Delve into the more obscure historical origins of the great British pub and enjoy our list of pubs with character, perfect for when you’re seeking an opportune thirst quenching experience or simply when craving a cultural place in which to relax.

1. The Black Friar

Pub, British

An architectural gem, the atmosphere of The Black Friar is heavily inspired by its striking art nouveau interior. The pub dates back to 1905 and the space was designed by architect H. Fuller-Clark and artist Henry Poole. The venue is adorned with figures of friars upon sculptures stretched across the parameters of the pub, as well as on mosaics and reliefs. This fascinating building has seen a tumultuous past after being threatened with demolition, before being swiftly rescued in a campaign led by poet Sir John Betjeman. Many influential cultural figures have fought for this pub, making it a historical haven worthy of maintenance.

2. Crown Tavern

Pub, Gastropub, British

St Jamess Church Clerkenwell in Clerkenwell Close and the Crown Tavern seen from Clerkenwell Green

A charmingly traditional, British-styled pub, The Crown Tavern has reserved a place in British history. The interior may well be recognizable to some, as scenes from Judi Dench’s film Notes on a Scandal were shot in the Apollo Lounge area upstairs. Lenin and Stalin notably held a meeting at the establishment in 1905, providing the tavern with a discerning political dimension. Inviting for its aesthetics alone, the space is exceptionally bright and spacious having once been a concert hall.

3. The Dog and Duck

Gastropub, Pub, Pub Grub

The Dog and Duck Pub, Soho, London, England, UK.

A fixture on the streets of Soho, The Dog and Duck is an ornate spectacle with a Victorian-styled interior, grandiose mirrors and impressive tiling. The history is best seen within the lavish architecture, which has attracted extraordinary punters. Regular drinkers at this pub have included George Orwell, John Constable and Dante Gabriel Rossetti. This pub differs from any other ordinary establishment as it has housed and perhaps inspired many great minds.

The Old Bank Of England

Previously divided into two distinct taverns – then demolished to become a branch of the Old Bank of England – this pub was restored in 1994 to its former opulence by well known brewers Turner, Fuller and Smith. Located on the grand Fleet Street, the building has been standing, nevertheless, since the 16th century and is now a historical monument. Hidden in the cellar are original vaults belonging to the bank, previously used to store bullion, and the pub still holds some of the Crown Jewels from the First World War. Legends also surround the building; it is said that the venue stood between the barber shop of Sweeny Todd and Mrs Lovett’s pie shop. Certainly, this pub has enchanting Victorian elements that resonate throughout.
The Old Bank Of England, 149 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2LT, UK

5. Ye Olde Mitre

Pub, Pub Grub

Ye Olde Mitre. Fullers pub just off Hatton Garden, London. Established in 1546

The 14th century Ye Olde Mitre resides amidst streets showered with history. As expected, ceilings are low and wooden beams abundant; sitting in the pub evokes the sensation of being a Shakespearian writer. The pub curiously has a cherry tree located in the courtyard and it is rumored that around this very tree, Queen Elizabeth danced while her father Henry VIII married next door in St. Ethelredas. Further down the street is the location where William Wallace was hanged, adding to the mystique. Keeping tradition close, the pub prides itself on their real ale.

6. The Spaniards Inn

Bar, Gastropub, Pub, British, European

The Spaniards Inn pub in Hampstead, London

The idyllic Spaniards Inn, located on the London outskirts of Hampstead Heath, binds charm to history. The literary greats often took solace within the walls of this 14th century establishment. The pub is forever preserved in Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers and it is said Keats’ Ode To A Nightingale was composed within the confines of the Inn. Other Romantic visitors include the notorious Lord Byron. The great odes to British literature were perhaps inspired by the picturesque setting of the pub, something to consider as you enjoy one of their craft ales.

7. The Star Tavern

Pub, British

The Star Tavern offers a traditional experience that has garnered the institution a plethora of awards. The most intriguing feature however, is the list of the pubs past visitors. The criminal ghost of Bruce Reynolds is said to reside at the Star, he was the ring leader of the infamous Great Train Robbery, the heist bringing the criminal gang £2.6 million in cash. The gang would gather in the confines of the pub, amongst fellow criminals, and hatch their plan. In the mortal realm, the pub welcomed significant figures during the sixties, such as Diana Dors, Peter O’Toole, Albert Finney and leading film director Alexander Korda.

8. The Viaduct Tavern

Pub, British

Amidst the art nouveau interior and between impressive succession art-styled paintings, the acclaimed Victorian Gin Palace – The Viaduct Tavern – is home to a great history of debate. The pub holds ties with the late 18th century Newgate prison. It is said the cellar of the pub was formerly four prison cells, however some argue the cellar has been redesigned to look this way. Despite the controversy, this lavish corner pub does have a shared history with the prison and a visit may still invoke an ominous undertone. Enjoy rare touches such as real ale and a unique ‘toll booth’ in which the landlord would previously exchange tokens for beer to avoid staff handling money.

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