I love when an establishment has character and pubs in London are no exception!
Luckily London is renowned for its eclectic mix of cafes and pubs, whether that’s a long line of history or just a fun element.
Taking the time to explore these cafes and pubs in London will surely add a twist to your London adventure. See you there!
CHURCHILL ARMS, KENSINGTON
One of the must-visit pubs in London
The pub has a history dating back to the late 18th century and was originally known as the “Church-on-the-Hill”. During the 1800s, Winston Churchill’s Grandparents were regular visitors which eventually led to the naming of the pub after World War 2 – in honour of Churchills grandchild, the wartime Prime Minister from 1940-1945 (and again from 1951-1955) Winston Churchill.
One of the most striking features of the Churchill Arms is its exterior, which is decorated with flowers and greenery. The pub is famous for its beautiful floral displays, including hanging baskets and flower-covered walls, and has earned the nickname of “London’s most colourful pub.” The interior of the Churchill Arms is filled with an extensive collection of Churchill memorabilia, including photographs, paintings, and other things.
In addition to its typical pub menu, the Churchill Arms is also known for its Thai restaurant, which serves authentic Thai food. This combination of British and Thai culinary offerings adds to the pub’s unique character (and they even have an outdoor beer garden).
Open daily from 11am to 11pm (kitchen from 12-9.30pm)
AVE MARIO, COVENT GARDEN
I don’t say this lightly but Ave Mario is the BEST restaurant I’ve ever been to. They serve genuine Italian food everyday, (Honestly the best carbonara ever – I had to order another one) but what is most eye-catching, is the amazing decor. With its dramatic lighting, marble floors, and towering ceilings, the restaurant is modelled like the grandeur of 1950s Italy. The restaurant has 3 floors, with each its own interior design. The toilets are fun with led-lights and a water tower. And even their drinks are served in fun glasses.
Did I mention I went here for my 20th birthday and had the whole restaurant sing happy birthday in italian?
THE SHERLOCK HOLMES PUB
Travel back in time in one of the most famous pubs in London
This pub near London’s Charing Cross Station, is much like the countless other pubs in the area. But the interior is full of references to the many books and films Sherlock Holmes featured in and when you step upstairs there is a life-size copy of the apartment shared by Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Originally the pub was named the Northumberland Arms but when its owners were able to purchase the entire Sherlock Holmes exhibit after it returned from a world tour in 1957, the bar changed into a theme pub.
Open every day from 11am to 11pm*
ELECTRIC SHUFFLE BAR
One of many shuffle bar pubs in London but located inside London Bridge station!
Inside the arches of London Bridge Station, Electric Shuffle is a fantastically immersive and entertaining venue. Electric Shuffle has transformed the traditional shuffleboard game into a fun social event that enables groups of up to 16 to compete. With Electric Shuffle Tournaments, they can connect shuffle tables and make a competitive experience with all players (imagine 320 guests battling for Electric Shuffle victory while keeping track of the live leaderboards)!
Info:
Open daily from 11.30am to midnight*
If you want to play, they require the gaming fee to be paid in advance (£10 pp)
ATTENDANT COFFEE ROASTERS – FITZROVIA
This might sound a bit disgusting, but this cafe is nestled in a former Victorian toilet below ground. Now obviously transformed into a cozy spot, but the original urinals now serve as decorations and coffee benches.
Be aware that it’s a tight space and only a few seating spots.
Also be aware that Attendant Coffee Roasters is a chain with several locations in London – so make sure to specifically set route for the one in Fitzrovia to visit the toilet-cafe ;))
THE OLD BANK OF ENGLAND
One of the most historic pubs of London
Located in Fleet Street, the old bank of england was originally a Law Courts branch of the Bank of England from 1888 to 1975 before it was turned into a pub in 1994. Today it’s more of a cafe than a traditional pub but still a great spot to enjoy a pint and fish n’ chips in a historical setting. It has an old but classy feel with large chandeliers, bookshelves and flower fabric covered chairs.
MRS. RIOT
If colorful interior, vibrant cocktails and bottomless drag brunch are not enough to lure you in, then I don’t know what will. To use their own words “Mrs Riot is inspired by Kitty Clive, one of London’s first sirens, rebels and role models who changed the course of history. Forget Marilyn or Madonna, Mrs Riot was a vivacious, vulgar and lucrative icon of 1700’s theatreland, and is back after 300 years to invite you to her party!”
Join wednesday drag bingo, free fizz thursdays or one of their many events! Read more here
THE ESCAPOLIGIST
This basement bar in Covent Garden is designed to be an escape from the ordinary, and has a vibe of an eccentric Victorian-era men’s club. They host lots of different themed parties and even throw a famous Mamma Mia bottomless brunch every Saturday!
Open every day from 4pm to midnight*
THE SHIPWRIGHTS ARMS
A true Victorian of pubs in London
Located near London Bridge, The Shipwrights Arms is a Grade II listed pub built in 1884. It retains its traditional Victorian charm with an original tiled mural depicting shipwrights at work and a central island bar, which is for classic British pubs. Nevertheless you get the essence of a classic British pub overlooking the Thames!
Opening hours: daily 12pm to 12am
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