Of all the things to do in London, visiting at least a few classic English pubs should be on every UK visitor’s list.
Dark interiors, wooden bars and cask ales are as much of a part of London as sights like Big Ben. Our Self-Guided River Thames Pub Crawl London features the most iconic pubs on or near the waterway.
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London Pubs on The Thames
In a dimly lit room, the wooden floor creaks and a fireplace crackles in the corner as a quick-witted bartender fills dimpled mugs with tepid cask ale.
The scene is a typical London pub – and could accurately describe any one of the thousands in the city. Yes, thousands.
Classic English pubs are a staple in London and the whole of the United Kingdom. A throwback to a bygone era that remains oddly fashionable in the modern metropolis. And we can’t get enough of them.
Still, with more than 40 pubs along the River Thames in London, it would be unrealistic to get to them all in a single day.
Therefore, instead of designing a single London Pub Crawl, we created 3 bar crawls in London to pubs by River Thames.
While we believe these are the best pub crawls in London along the River Thames, some are located in the City of London.
As this is one of our Favorite London Areas, we share details of an Oldest Pubs in London Crawl, as well!
Best Classic Pub Crawl London
A River Thames pub crawl in London is a fantastic way to combine sightseeing and essential experiences. Most of the pubs on the Thames River offer outdoor seating and phenomenal views.
Each London pub tour features a specific area – Central London, East London and Greenwich. These are all well-connected, too.
They can be reached on foot, with public transport or by boat. Yep, you can visit some of these on a Thames Clipper pub crawl!
That said, the East London River Thames Bar Crawl features some of the oldest pubs in London. The furthest crawl – in Greenwich – highlights both modern and historic pubs.
London Pub Crawl Guide
Our Self-Guided London bar crawl includes the best pubs on the Thames. For each, we include a pin drop and information about the venue. At the end of the post, we include a complete map of pubs on the Thames.
Tips for Sightseeing in London
Each bar crawl of the London river pubs could also work well with daytime sightseeing. For example, tour the sights in Westminster using our Self-Guided Walking Tour.
Then visit either the Central London pubs along the Thames in the evening or the East London pubs by the river.
The next day, begin with our guide of Things To Do in Greenwich, then embark on the Greenwich Pub Crawl.
Central London Bar Crawl to 7 Pubs by the Thames
This is one of the best Central London Pub Crawls and a highlight for many visitors. It takes tasters from the north side of the river across to the south bank and from Blackfriars Bridge to Tower Bridge.
#1 The Blackfriar
MAP. The Blackfriar is one of the best bars in the city – and a perfect place to kick off a London historic pub crawl. This Nicholson’s bar isn’t directly on the river, but it is legendary and said to be haunted.
The triangular Art Nouveau building was built in 1875 on the previous site of a monastery. The dark, wooden interior is brightened by light streaming through the stained-glass windows and shimmering brass.
Almost always crowded, on pleasant days, patrons spill out the front door and into the adjacent park. The Blackfriar bar has rotating taps – and helpful bartenders who are happy to make suggestions.
#2 Doggett’s Coat and Badge
MAP. Another Nicholson bar on our London pub crawl tour is The Doggett’s Coat and Badge. It sits right on the river on the south end of Blackfriars Bridge.
Named in honor of Thomas Doggett, as he was responsible for starting the London Bridge to Chelsea rowing race on the Thames 300 years ago and awarded the winner a coat and badge.
The riverside location comes with a small outdoor seating area, which fills up quickly on nice days. However, the interior is charming – and there are a few tables inside by the windows.
#3 Founders Arms
MAP. Founders Arms, a Young’s & Co establishment, is one of the best located pubs along Thames River. The modern bar features a fantastic outdoor space – with a long deck that provides an impressive city view.
No open seats on the patio? No problem. Guests can stand along the terrace to take in the London Skyline and St. Paul’s Cathedral while watching boats sail up and down the river.
Founders Arms is also a great spot for dining on the River Thames. Serving classic British fare, they features a special brunch and Sunday roast, too.
#4 Anchor Bankside
MAP. Dating to at least the mid-1600s, Anchor Bankside is one of the fun bars on our riverside pub crawl in the London borough of Southwark.
A Green King Pub, it is located in a traditional brick building, with red painted trim, featuring cozy rooms on multiple levels. The spacious waterfront deck is super for sunny afternoon and warm nights.
It was long a favorite watering hole in London’s early theater district. It is also where Samuel Pepys watched the Great Fire of London across the river in 1666.
Today, locals, tourists and even dogs are invited in. Exuding a classic British atmosphere, they offer a nice range of beers and a menu of pub classics, too.
#5 The Old Thameside Inn
MAP. Next up is The Old Thameside Inn. We first spotted this place during our boat ride and were determined to find it once back on land!
Tucked away near the stunning Southwark Cathedral on cobblestoned streets, The Old Thameside Inn is filled with history…and good beer.
The brick building with exposed wooden beams was originally used as a spice house. Plus, the long deck literally hovers over the river with a great view of the Sky Garden.
Today, the Old Thameside is touted as a Specialty Pie House (a feature of most Nicholson Pubs), with a dedicated British savory pie menu to please palates.
#6 The Horniman at Hayes
MAP. The next stop on our Central Pub Crawl London route is The Horniman at Hayes, yet another Nicholson’s venture!
Located in a former tea warehouse, The Horniman at Hayes boasts a well-decorated interior, especially during Christmas in London!
While the interior is gorgeous and classic, we also love the outdoor tables with views of Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast and the City of London skyline.
#7 The Vault 1894
MAP. This tiny gem is tucked under the arches of the Tower Bridge! The space may be tight, but if the weather’s decent, pop out into the beer garden.
As the last stop on your first Thames River Crawl, you might be feeling a wee bit peckish. Dig into a London classic with an order of the Vault 1894’s fish and chips. Cheers to London!
East London River Thames Pub Crawl
The East London pubs on the River Thames are a step off the heavily trodden tourist trail. It’s the best London pub crawl to see some of the oldest bars on the River Thames.
#1 The Angel
MAP. Begin your East London Pub Crawl on the River Thames at The Angel. Occupying an area that is steeped in history, The Angel is a fantastic neighborhood boozer complete with a wood burning fireplace. There’s even a view of Tower Bridge!
#2 The Mayflower
MAP. Dating to the year 1550, The Mayflower claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames. Whether that is accurate or not, it is absolutely true that it’s quintessentially English.
Nestled in the Rotherhithe district along a cobblestone lane, the interior is cozy and welcoming. However, the best seating for river views is from the deck.
In fact, it marks the site where the Mayflower was moored prior to beginning its journey to the New World in 1620!
Travel Tip: Unless you want to swim (no, don’t) take the Overground from Rotherhithe one stop to Wapping to continue your crawl on the north bank of the Thames.
#3 The Prospect of Whitby
MAP. The Prospect of Whitby dates to 1520 and also claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames, bearing some original features (like the 400-year-old stone floors).
Most of the classically decorated rooms have views of the river and there is an outdoor beer garden, as well.
With its long history, The Prospect of Whitby has seen a slew of merrymakers pass through its doors.
From sailors and smugglers to politicians and princesses, it is often featured on guided London pub tours. They serve a full menu of British Fare, too.
We indulged in a sausage platter – a perfect accompaniment to any beer. Other notable dishes include a Sticky Pickle Sausage Roll and the Steak & Ale Pie.
#4 Captain Kidd Pub
MAP. One of the pubs overlooking the Thames, Captain Kidd is housed in a former coffee warehouse. Spread over three floors, it also boasts a large, riverside outdoor seating area.
Named after William Kidd, who was a 17th century pirate hanged on nearby Execution Dock. The décor tells the story of Kidd and features a nautical design.
Although big bay windows face the river, allowing natural light in, the interior is dim and cozy. As a Samuel Smith pub, the only beers on tap are from their brewery, which was established in 1758.
#5 Town of Ramsgate
MAP. Continuing our Historic Pub Tour London in East London, the Town of Ramsgate dates back to 1545.
It sits on the same site as a previous pub that dates to the 1460s, is classic and intimate. It too claims to be the oldest pub on the River Thames (but, it’s disputed by some).
Inside the brick building, cask ales line the bar and there is a small garden faces the river. Being such a historic spot, it’s difficult to not go with a classic cask choice, like a pint of London Pride.
London to Greenwich Pub Crawl
The final of our London Pub Crawl routes works its way east to Greenwich. For this Self Guided Pub Crawl London, we recommend taking the Thames Clipper ferry.
Make a stop at Canary Wharf on the way to visit one of the most famous bars on pub crawls in London.
#1 The Grapes
MAP. A famous boozer that is featured in all of the best London pub crawls, The Grapes is a must for fans of historic bars.
Housed in a building from the 1720s (and on the site of a former pub dating to 1583), The Grapes is a classic British pub that has long been a destination for writers and artists. In fact, Charles Dickens was said to be a patron.
That said, fans of Lord of the Rings flock to the bar to see Gandalf’s walking stick that is displayed behind the bar.
The narrow bar has a smattering of historic memorabilia – plus there are two small outdoor spaces to enjoy river views.
Travel Tip: Take the Thames Clipper Uber Boat from Canary Wharf to Greenwich Pier.
#2 The Sail Loft
MAP. In stark contrast to the previous stops, The Sail Loft is one of the new bars on our Greenwich pub crawl.
The modern glass building and sleek waterfront patio allows guests to imbibe right on the river’s edge. It’s a fabulous perch – and on warm afternoons it’s a great place to order a classic London gin cocktail.
#3 The Gipsy Moth
MAP. Given it’s location, the nautical theme of the Gipsy Moth blends in fabulously with the Royal Borough of Greenwich. From the beer garden you even get a view of the Cutty Stark!
The interior is of course cozy for colder weather, and their full menu get’s high marks if you’re ready for a bite to eat.
#4 Trafalgar Tavern
MAP. Trafalgar Tavern was built in 1837 on the site of a former bar, The Old George Tavern. Once frequented by politicians and Charles Dickens, it actually closed from 1915 until 1965.
During this time it was used as a workmen’s club and to house seamen. Today, the grand establishment stands on the banks of the Thames with a cheerful pale-yellow exterior and a bright and airy interior.
Popular with both locals and tourists, the most coveted tables are those by the large, river-facing Regency windows.
#5 Cutty Sark at Ballast Quay
MAP. A beautiful 200-year-old pub on the Thames River, Cutty Sark embraces that history. Not to be confused with the ship of the same name, it features a brick exterior and wooden interior.
Occupying three stories, the Cutty Sark offers fine river views and features an exquisite menu of fresh, in-season food alongside famous fish-and-chips. The riverside tables are the perfect place for enjoying a pint!
Map of London Pub Crawl on Thames River
For an interactive version of our map of pubs along the River Thames, use this Google Map.
City of London Pub Tour
While we believe our tours highlight some of the best pubs along the Thames, there are a few notable bars that can be visited on an Oldest Pubs in London Crawl. These are all located in the City of London.
#1 Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
MAP. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is one of the world famous London pubs. Often claimed to be London’s oldest pub, the original venue was actually destroyed by the 1666 London Fire.
We recommend drinking your pint in the cellar, which is believed to be part of a 13th century Carmelite monastery.
#2 The Old Bank of England
MAP. The Old Bank of England Fleet Street pub is relatively new, but it is housed in the former Bank of England’s Law Courts.
The gorgeous building alone is worth taking a peek inside. That said, it’s also fun to tip pints inside the old London bus in the courtyard garden!
#3 The Seven Stars
MAP. Dating to 1602, The Seven Stars is a typical old London boozer. With creaking floorboards, friendly bar staff and a resident cat, it’s easy to get cozy at The Seven Stars.
#4 The Old Bell Tavern
MAP. Another classic boozer in London, the Old Bell features stained glass above the entrance. The building housed mason’s during the rebuilding of the City after the 1666 fire.
#5 Ye Olde Mitre
MAP. Ye Olde Mitre is dedicated to keeping tradition alive. Opened in 1547, the pub is located along a narrow alley and is the perfect place to get a ‘proper pint’ in London. (Closed Sundays!)
London Beer Mile Breweries
We have recommended bars that are perfect for a self guided London Historic Pubs Crawl. That said, it is quite easy to create a Craft Beer Crawl in London!
Bermondsey Beer Mile
Beer aficionados can skip the Greene King and Sam Smith London pubs and instead get a taste of what’s brewing on the Bermondsey Beer Mile.
Occupying the arches under the railroad tracks, this hip and industrial beer mile is a must for fans of craft brew!
Walthamstow Blackhorse Beer Mile
Located in the northern suburb of Walthamstow in an industrial park, the Blackhorse Beer Mile is a bit out of the way for most London visitors. That said, it’s a true gem in the current London craft beer scene!
Independent brewers to visit on this beer mile are Hackney Brewery, Exale Brewing, Signature Brew and Pretty Decent Beer. Then, stop by Big Penny Social for a bite to eat and some fun!
More Pub Crawls London
Travelers looking for a guided pub crawl or a themed self-guided pub tour have some more options. We are highlighting a few of the best.
Guided Historic Pub Crawl
Pub crawling London on your own is fun, but it can be even so with a local guide and fellow travelers! Join the Guided Historic Pub Crawl – one of the Best Pub Tours London!
Guided Central London Pub Crawl
Join fellow revelers on a epic night of partying. Participants visit 5 London bars – with free shots and discounted drinks. Reserve your spot!
Camden Pub Crawl
One of the best London neighborhoods for bar crawls, pub-goers can create their own pub crawl in Camden or join this highly rated tour.
Circle Line Pub Crawl
Highlighting 27 phenomenal pubs that are near Tube stations, the Circle Line Pub Crawl can be a fun night out with friends! Get more info.
Battersea Pub Crawl
Although mostly a residential area, a lot is changing in Battersea and there are a handful of places that are fun to discover on a pub crawl. Get the list.
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