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Legendary pubs in London where history and mystery meet

These 10 legendary pubs are more than just watering holes—they are portals to the past, where the echoes of pirates, poets, criminals, and ghosts linger in the air.
The Grenadier: Tucked away in Belgravia, The Grenadier is not only haunted by the ghost of a soldier named Cedric, but it is also said that Napoleon’s troops drank here during the Napoleonic Wars. Another lesser-known fact is that visitors leave money pinned to the ceiling as a symbolic gesture to pay off Cedric’s debt, hoping to calm his restless spirit. Photo (outdoor): Matt Brown, Flickr CC BY 2.0 Interior: grenadierbelgravia.com
The Grenadier: Tucked away in Belgravia, The Grenadier is not only haunted by the ghost of a soldier named Cedric, but it is also said that Napoleon’s troops drank here during the Napoleonic Wars. Another lesser-known fact is that visitors leave money pinned to the ceiling as a symbolic gesture to pay off Cedric’s debt, hoping to calm his restless spirit. Photo (outdoor): Matt Brown, Flickr CC BY 2.0 Interior: grenadierbelgravia.com


Pubs, short for «public houses,» have been at the heart of British culture for centuries, serving as places where communities gather, stories are shared, and history is made. The origins of pubs can be traced back to Roman Britain when the Romans introduced tabernae—establishments that served food and drink to weary travelers. However, it wasn’t until the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons that the concept of alehouses emerged.

The first establishments that resembled modern pubs appeared after 965 AD, when King Edgar introduced laws requiring alehouses to be licensed and monitored by local authorities. These early pubs served homemade ale and provided a meeting space for locals. By the Middle Ages, inns and taverns flourished, catering to travelers, merchants, and pilgrims.

The oldest pub in britain: Where it all began

While the title of «Britain’s oldest pub» is still debated, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans, Hertfordshire, claims to be the oldest, with origins dating back to 793 AD. Other contenders include The Old Ferryboat Inn in Cambridgeshire and The Bingley Arms in Leeds, both of which have served patrons for over a millennium.

Pub culture in london: A thriving tradition

London, as the capital of Britain, boasts a particularly rich pub culture. With its diverse neighborhoods and deep historical roots, the city is home to over 3,500 pubs, each with its own unique character and history. From historic taverns frequented by literary icons to riverside pubs once favored by pirates and smugglers, London’s pubs offer a journey through time.

Many of London’s oldest pubs survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, the Blitz during World War II, and rapid urban modernization. Today, these establishments serve as living monuments where visitors can enjoy a pint while experiencing the echoes of the past.

The price of a pint in london today

As of 2025, the average price of a pint of beer in London ranges between £6.00 and £7.50, depending on the pub and location. Prices tend to be higher in central London and tourist-heavy areas, while local pubs in less commercial neighborhoods may offer pints for a slightly lower price. Craft beers and imported lagers typically command a higher price, while traditional ales and lagers tend to be more affordable.

London’s changing drinking habits

While traditional cask ales and lagers remain popular in London’s pubs, the city has seen a craft beer revolution in recent years, with many historic pubs now offering a wide selection of locally brewed IPAs, stouts, and ciders. Despite the rise of trendy bars and cocktail lounges, London’s iconic pubs continue to thrive, offering a timeless space where history and hospitality converge.

Whether you’re seeking a chilling ghost story, a glimpse of literary history, or a connection to London’s criminal underworld, each of these pubs offers a unique experience where history and hospitality blend seamlessly.


The Grenadier (Belgravia): A haunted soldier’s debt

Founded: 1720 (opened to the public in 1818)

Nestled in a quiet mews in Belgravia, The Grenadier was originally built as an officers’ mess for the First Regiment of Foot Guards. The pub’s eerie legend revolves around a young soldier named Cedric who was beaten to death after being caught cheating at cards.

Ghostly encounters:

Cedric’s restless spirit is said to haunt the pub, especially in September, the month of his death. Visitors and staff have reported objects moving, unexplained footsteps, and chilling whispers. Some claim his skeletal remains lie beneath the pub’s cellar, adding to its haunted allure.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: One of London’s oldest and most atmospheric pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese was rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, but few know that its cellars date back to the 13th century, possibly connected to a Carmelite monastery. Frequented by literary greats like Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the pub’s labyrinth of dark, candlelit rooms has inspired countless writers. An unusual fact is that the pub once kept a parrot named Polly, who became famous for her foul-mouthed outbursts. When Polly died in 1926, newspapers around the world ran obituaries, cementing her place in the pub’s quirky history. Photo (outfoor) David, Flickr CC BY 2.0 Interior: ye-olde-cheshire-cheese.co.uk/
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: One of London’s oldest and most atmospheric pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese was rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, but few know that its cellars date back to the 13th century, possibly connected to a Carmelite monastery. Frequented by literary greats like Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the pub’s labyrinth of dark, candlelit rooms has inspired countless writers. An unusual fact is that the pub once kept a parrot named Polly, who became famous for her foul-mouthed outbursts. When Polly died in 1926, newspapers around the world ran obituaries, cementing her place in the pub’s quirky history. Photo (outfoor) David, Flickr CC BY 2.0 Interior: ye-olde-cheshire-cheese.co.uk/

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street): A literary time capsule

Founded: Rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is one of London’s oldest and most atmospheric pubs. Its labyrinth of dark, candlelit rooms and underground cellars date back even earlier, surviving the Great Fire of London.

Famous patrons:

This pub has welcomed literary greats like Charles Dickens, who mentioned it in «A Tale of Two Cities,» and Samuel Johnson, who reportedly spent many hours at the bar. Rumors persist that the ghost of Johnson’s beloved cat, Hodge, still prowls the pub’s cellar.

The Spaniards Inn: Established in 1585, The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead is famous for its connection to Dick Turpin, the notorious highwayman who is said to have hidden there while evading capture. But few know that John Keats, the renowned poet, is believed to have written part of his masterpiece «Ode to a Nightingale» in the pub’s garden. Another fascinating fact is that the inn played a role in the Gordon Riots of 1780, where rioters used it as a gathering point before marching on London. Adding to its intrigue, the pub is said to be haunted by two spirits—Turpin’s father, who was once the landlord, and a Spanish gentleman allegedly murdered in a duel on the premises. Photo: facebook.com/thespaniardshampstead
The Spaniards Inn: Established in 1585, The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead is famous for its connection to Dick Turpin, the notorious highwayman who is said to have hidden there while evading capture. But few know that John Keats, the renowned poet, is believed to have written part of his masterpiece «Ode to a Nightingale» in the pub’s garden. Another fascinating fact is that the inn played a role in the Gordon Riots of 1780, where rioters used it as a gathering point before marching on London. Adding to its intrigue, the pub is said to be haunted by two spirits—Turpin’s father, who was once the landlord, and a Spanish gentleman allegedly murdered in a duel on the premises. Photo: facebook.com/thespaniardshampstead

The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead): Dick Turpin’s hideout

Founded: 1585

Located on the edge of Hampstead Heath, The Spaniards Inn is steeped in legend and folklore. It is said to have been a favorite haunt of Dick Turpin, the infamous highwayman, who used the pub as a hideout while evading capture.

Ghostly presences

Turpin’s ghost is said to linger in the upstairs rooms, and some have reported hearing phantom hoofbeats outside, as if the highwayman is still riding through the night.

The Prospect of Whitby: Dating back to 1520, The Prospect of Whitby is London’s oldest riverside tavern, once frequented by pirates, sailors, and smugglers. But many don’t know that the pub was originally called The Devil’s Tavern because of its rowdy clientele. The notorious Judge Jeffreys, also known as the Hanging Judge, was a regular visitor, and a replica gallows still stands outside as a chilling reminder of the executions that took place nearby. Another little-known fact is that Samuel Pepys, the famous diarist, mentioned the pub in his writings, and Charles Dickens was also known to frequent it. The pub’s cellar is said to contain remnants of smuggler tunnels that once connected it to the Thames, adding a layer of intrigue to its already dark history. Photo:.greeneking.co.uk
The Prospect of Whitby: Dating back to 1520, The Prospect of Whitby is London’s oldest riverside tavern, once frequented by pirates, sailors, and smugglers. But many don’t know that the pub was originally called The Devil’s Tavern because of its rowdy clientele. The notorious Judge Jeffreys, also known as the Hanging Judge, was a regular visitor, and a replica gallows still stands outside as a chilling reminder of the executions that took place nearby. Another little-known fact is that Samuel Pepys, the famous diarist, mentioned the pub in his writings, and Charles Dickens was also known to frequent it. The pub’s cellar is said to contain remnants of smuggler tunnels that once connected it to the Thames, adding a layer of intrigue to its already dark history. Photo:.greeneking.co.uk

The Prospect of Whitby (Wapping): A pirate’s favorite haunt

Founded: 1520

Perched along the Thames, The Prospect of Whitby is London’s oldest riverside tavern. It was once frequented by pirates, sailors, and smugglers, making it a rough and dangerous spot during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Hanging Judge’s legacy

The pub’s most infamous patron was Judge Jeffreys, known as the Hanging Judge. A replica gallows still stands outside the pub, marking the spot where many criminals met their end.

The Ten Bells: Steeped in history and chilling mystery, The Ten Bells in Spitalfields is most famous for its connection to Jack the Ripper, as it was frequented by two of his victims, Annie Chapman and Mary Jane Kelly, before their brutal murders in 1888. But few know that the pub’s origins date back to 1752, and its interior still features original Victorian tiles, preserved for over a century. Another hidden fact is that during renovations, old police reports and newspaper clippings from the Ripper era were discovered within the walls, deepening the pub’s dark legacy. Adding to the mystery, some claim the pub is haunted by Annie Chapman’s spirit, with eerie footsteps and whispers often reported by staff and patrons alike. Photo (outdoor): Ewan Munro, Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0 Interior: Maggie Jones, Flickr Public domain
The Ten Bells: Steeped in history and chilling mystery, The Ten Bells in Spitalfields is most famous for its connection to Jack the Ripper, as it was frequented by two of his victims, Annie Chapman and Mary Jane Kelly, before their brutal murders in 1888. But few know that the pub’s origins date back to 1752, and its interior still features original Victorian tiles, preserved for over a century. Another hidden fact is that during renovations, old police reports and newspaper clippings from the Ripper era were discovered within the walls, deepening the pub’s dark legacy. Adding to the mystery, some claim the pub is haunted by Annie Chapman’s spirit, with eerie footsteps and whispers often reported by staff and patrons alike. Photo (outdoor): Ewan Munro, Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0 Interior: Maggie Jones, Flickr Public domain

The Ten Bells (Spitalfields) A chilling link to Jack the Ripper

Founded: Mid-18th century

The Ten Bells gained notoriety for its connection to Jack the Ripper, as it was frequented by at least two of his victims, Annie Chapman and Mary Jane Kelly, before their untimely deaths.

Ghostly activity:

Reports of paranormal activity abound, with visitors claiming to hear eerie footsteps and whispers echoing through the pub’s Victorian interior.

The George Inn (Southwark): Shakespeare’s last surviving link

Founded: 16th century

The George Inn is London’s last surviving galleried inn, where weary travelers once rested during the Elizabethan era. It is believed that William Shakespeare performed here, and Charles Dickens immortalized it in his novel «Little Dorrit.»

A Living Monument:

Visitors can still admire the original gallery overlooking the courtyard, where patrons gathered to watch performances and storytelling sessions.

The Viaduct Tavern: Built in 1869, The Viaduct Tavern in Holborn is one of London’s most haunted pubs, but few know it stands on the site of Newgate Prison and its underground cellars are believed to contain remnants of the prison’s cells. Some of these cells allegedly held condemned prisoners awaiting execution, adding a sinister layer to the pub’s history. While the pub is known for its elegant Victorian décor, it’s the ghostly encounters that truly make it famous—staff and patrons have reported unexplained whispers, objects moving on their own, and sudden temperature drops. A lesser-known fact is that policemen patrolling the area in the late 19th century often refused to walk near the pub at night, fearing they might encounter restless spirits. Photo: viaducttavern.co.uk/
The Viaduct Tavern: Built in 1869, The Viaduct Tavern in Holborn is one of London’s most haunted pubs, but few know it stands on the site of Newgate Prison and its underground cellars are believed to contain remnants of the prison’s cells. Some of these cells allegedly held condemned prisoners awaiting execution, adding a sinister layer to the pub’s history. While the pub is known for its elegant Victorian décor, it’s the ghostly encounters that truly make it famous—staff and patrons have reported unexplained whispers, objects moving on their own, and sudden temperature drops. A lesser-known fact is that policemen patrolling the area in the late 19th century often refused to walk near the pub at night, fearing they might encounter restless spirits. Photo: viaducttavern.co.uk/

The Viaduct Tavern (Holborn): A gateway to Newgate prison

Founded: 1869

Built on the site of the notorious Newgate Prison, The Viaduct Tavern is one of London’s most haunted pubs. The pub’s cellars are said to contain remnants of old prison cells where condemned prisoners awaited execution.

Prisoner spirits:

Staff and patrons have reported ghostly encounters, including unexplained banging noises and sightings of shadowy figures believed to be the souls of prisoners who met their fate at Newgate.

The Mayflower: Dating back to 1620, The Mayflower in Rotherhithe is named after the famous ship that carried the Pilgrims to America. What many don’t know is that the pub stands on the exact spot where the Mayflower was moored before its historic voyage, and the pub still has a copy of the original ship’s manifest, listing the names of the passengers who sailed to the New World. Another hidden fact is that the pub has the only license in England that allows it to sell American stamps, a tribute to its transatlantic legacy. Visitors can also spot a commemorative plaque honoring the ship’s journey and its impact on American history. Photo (outdoor): Alison Day, Flickr CC BY-ND 2,0 Interior: mayflowerpub.co.uk
The Mayflower: Dating back to 1620, The Mayflower in Rotherhithe is named after the famous ship that carried the Pilgrims to America. What many don’t know is that the pub stands on the exact spot where the Mayflower was moored before its historic voyage, and the pub still has a copy of the original ship’s manifest, listing the names of the passengers who sailed to the New World. Another hidden fact is that the pub has the only license in England that allows it to sell American stamps, a tribute to its transatlantic legacy. Visitors can also spot a commemorative plaque honoring the ship’s journey and its impact on American history. Photo (outdoor): Alison Day, Flickr CC BY-ND 2,0 Interior: mayflowerpub.co.uk

The Mayflower (Rotherhithe): Where the pilgrims set sail

Founded: 1620

The Mayflower pub in Rotherhithe is named after the famous ship that carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620. Legend has it that the pub’s pier was the very spot where the Mayflower began its historic voyage.

Historic documents

The pub proudly displays replicas of original documents related to the Mayflower’s journey, allowing visitors to step back into one of the most pivotal moments in history.


The Lamb and Flag: Established in 1623, The Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden is best known for its rowdy past, earning the nickname «The Bucket of Blood» due to the bare-knuckle boxing matches that took place in the 18th century. But few know that the pub was a favorite haunt of Charles Dickens, who referenced it in his works. Another lesser-known fact is that the pub survived a murder attempt on poet John Dryden in 1679, when he was ambushed just outside the premises in what is believed to have been a politically motivated attack. Despite its violent history, The Lamb and Flag remains a charming spot where visitors can sip a pint in a place where history and literature collide. Photo: lambandflagcoventgarden.co.uk/
The Lamb and Flag: Established in 1623, The Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden is best known for its rowdy past, earning the nickname «The Bucket of Blood» due to the bare-knuckle boxing matches that took place in the 18th century. But few know that the pub was a favorite haunt of Charles Dickens, who referenced it in his works. Another lesser-known fact is that the pub survived a murder attempt on poet John Dryden in 1679, when he was ambushed just outside the premises in what is believed to have been a politically motivated attack. Despite its violent history, The Lamb and Flag remains a charming spot where visitors can sip a pint in a place where history and literature collide. Photo: lambandflagcoventgarden.co.uk/

The Lamb and Flag (Covent Garden): The bloodiest pub in london

Founded: 1623

The Lamb and Flag earned the nickname «The Bucket of Blood» due to its reputation for hosting bare-knuckle boxing matches in the 18th century. The pub was a notorious site for violent brawls and dangerous encounters.

Charles Dickens’ favorite:

Charles Dickens frequented this pub, and references to its gritty atmosphere can be found in his works. Though the brawls have long ceased, the pub retains its historic charm.


The Anchor: Dating back to 1615, The Anchor on Bankside is rich with maritime history and is famously known as the spot where Samuel Pepys watched the Great Fire of London in 1666, recording the event in his diary. But many don’t know that the pub was once a favorite haunt of 17th-century pirates and smugglers, who used its proximity to the Thames to transport contraband goods. Another hidden fact is that William Shakespeare is believed to have frequented the pub, given its location near the original Globe Theatre, making it a gathering place for actors and playwrights of the time. Today, visitors can enjoy a pint while soaking in the ambiance of a place where London’s literary and seafaring history converge. Photo: greeneking.co.uk
The Anchor: Dating back to 1615, The Anchor on Bankside is rich with maritime history and is famously known as the spot where Samuel Pepys watched the Great Fire of London in 1666, recording the event in his diary. But many don’t know that the pub was once a favorite haunt of 17th-century pirates and smugglers, who used its proximity to the Thames to transport contraband goods. Another hidden fact is that William Shakespeare is believed to have frequented the pub, given its location near the original Globe Theatre, making it a gathering place for actors and playwrights of the time. Today, visitors can enjoy a pint while soaking in the ambiance of a place where London’s literary and seafaring history converge. Photo: greeneking.co.uk

The Anchor (Bankside): Where Samuel Pepys witnessed the great fire

Founded: 1615

Perched along the Thames, The Anchor was where Samuel Pepys famously watched the Great Fire of London in 1666, recording his observations in his diary.

A window to history:

The pub’s riverside location and rich maritime history make it a popular destination for those interested in London’s seafaring past.


The Sherlock Holmes Pub: While most visitors come for the recreation of Holmes and Watson’s study at 221B Baker Street, few know that the pub’s location on Northumberland Street was likely inspired by The Northumberland Hotel mentioned in «The Hound of the Baskervilles.» Another little-known fact is that the pub’s collection of Holmes memorabilia was originally created for the Festival of Britain in 1951 and was so popular that it was permanently moved to the pub in 1957. Additionally, the upstairs exhibit includes authentic Victorian furniture and props that have been meticulously maintained over the years, making it a true hidden gem for Holmes enthusiasts. Photo by Sara Groblechner on Unsplash
The Sherlock Holmes Pub: While most visitors come for the recreation of Holmes and Watson’s study at 221B Baker Street, few know that the pub’s location on Northumberland Street was likely inspired by The Northumberland Hotel mentioned in «The Hound of the Baskervilles.» Another little-known fact is that the pub’s collection of Holmes memorabilia was originally created for the Festival of Britain in 1951 and was so popular that it was permanently moved to the pub in 1957. Additionally, the upstairs exhibit includes authentic Victorian furniture and props that have been meticulously maintained over the years, making it a true hidden gem for Holmes enthusiasts. Photo by Sara Groblechner on Unsplash

A tribute to the world’s greatest detective

The Sherlock Holmes Pub, located in the heart of London, Regno Unito (United Kingdom), is a must-visit destination for fans of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective, Sherlock Holmes.

Situated at 10 Northumberland Street, near Trafalgar Square, this iconic pub offers a unique blend of literary history, Victorian charm, and British hospitality.

A pub with a mysterious past

The Sherlock Holmes Pub was originally established as The Northumberland Arms in the early 1800s, serving as a traditional British inn and pub for local patrons and travelers.

It was officially renamed The Sherlock Holmes in 1957, after an extensive collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia was placed on display following its success at the Festival of Britain in 1951. The decision to rename the pub was made to honor Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective and to create a unique destination for Holmes enthusiasts from around the world.

Explore sherlock holmes’ world

One of the pub’s biggest draws is the upstairs recreation of Holmes and Dr. Watson’s study at 221B Baker Street, painstakingly detailed with Victorian furnishings, Holmes’ signature deerstalker hat, magnifying glass, and a plethora of clues from various cases.

  • The Study: Filled with intricate period pieces, including books, scientific equipment, and personal items, the room offers visitors a glimpse into Holmes’ fictional world.

  • The Pub Interior: The ground floor of the pub features walls adorned with Sherlock Holmes-themed artwork, photographs, and memorabilia, immersing patrons in the adventures of the great detective.

literary and cinematic connections

Over the years, The Sherlock Holmes Pub has become a favorite haunt for Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts, tourists, and even actors who have portrayed the famous detective. It’s also a popular stop for fans of the BBC’s «Sherlock« series starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman.

Great food and drinks with a touch of mystery

While soaking in the atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of traditional British pub fare, including classics like fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and bangers and mash. The pub also offers a variety of beers, ales, and cocktails, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring London.


A hidden connection to the novels

The pub’s location on Northumberland Street is no coincidence—The Hound of the Baskervilles, one of Holmes’ most famous adventures, features The Northumberland Hotel, a fictional establishment believed to be inspired by this very street.

A special place for sherlock holmes fans

For those who love mystery, intrigue, and a dash of Victorian charm, The Sherlock Holmes Pub is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a living tribute to one of literature’s greatest detectives, offering an unforgettable journey through the world of Sherlock Holmes.



Why british pubs once had to close at 11 pm

The traditional 11 PM closing time was once a strict legal requirement under the Licensing Act of 1914, introduced during World War I to reduce alcohol consumption among munitions workers.

However, this law was significantly changed with the introduction of the Licensing Act of 2003, which came into effect in 2005.

What changed under the 2003 licensing act?

The Licensing Act of 2003 gave pubs, bars, and other licensed venues much greater flexibility in setting their opening and closing hours. Under the new rules:

  • Pubs can apply for extended licenses, allowing them to stay open beyond 11 PM, with some remaining open until midnight, 1 AM, or even later.

  • Some pubs in busy areas or tourist zones can stay open 24 hours, though this is less common.

Typical pub closing times today

  • Traditional Pubs: Many still close around 11 PM to midnight, especially those in quieter neighborhoods.

  • City Center and Popular Pubs: Pubs in central London or busy areas often stay open until midnight or 1 AM, especially on weekends.

  • Late-Night Venues: Some pubs, particularly those with live music or late-night licenses, may stay open until 2 AM or later.

Exceptions and conditions

  • Special Licenses: Pubs can apply for temporary licenses to extend their hours for special occasions, holidays, or events.

  • Local Authority Control: Individual local councils have the power to approve or restrict extended hours based on the area and public interest.

The 24-hour pub

Although 24-hour licenses are rare, a handful of London pubs hold them, allowing patrons to enjoy a pint at any hour. However, most pubs still choose to close before midnight, maintaining the traditional pub atmosphere that British culture is known for.



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