When you visit many cities across the UK, the main draw of the pubs is the beer they have on offer. And while that is partly true of London, there’s so much more to London pubs than what they offer at the pumps.

Today, there are many reasons why people avoid pubs, more of us are going teetotal, and unfortunately more of us are suffering from alcohol addiction. It has become a blight on society. However, while you will find booze in every London boozer, you’ll also find so much more too. And so much more that doesn’t involve having to drink, or more importantly, having to drink alcohol.

London pubs are full of history, with so many stories to tell and to this day you can still visit them and get a real taste of what they were all about back then. So, the next time you’re visiting the city, whether it’s for a few pints or half an hour grabbing a quick Coke before getting the train, here are the historic pubs you should be visiting…

The Sherlock Holmes Pub

This pub is a tribute to the famous detective who was created by writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It’s a two-floor pub located in Marylebone and it’s a great place to grab a pint of beer and play some games.

The White Hart

This pub is located in the City of London and dates all the way back to 1539. It’s a great place to enjoy some good food and drinks, and it’s a popular spot for tourists due to its proximity to the theatres.

The West End pub is full of history. Just imagine all the actors that have treaded its boards…

The Prospect of Whitby

This pub is located in Wapping and dates back to 1520. It’s a great place to enjoy a scenic view of the Thames and is a must-visit for any pub lover. It’s a little out of the way for tourists visiting the city, but if you want a pint beside the Thames, there’s no better place to do it.

The George Inn

This pub is located in Southwark and dates back to 1676. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and it’s close to the Globe Theatre, as well as the likes of Tower Bridge and Borough Market. 

Tucked away down an alleyway that opens up to a courtyard, it’s a wonderful pub that feels like a hidden gem, even if it isn’t one.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This pub is located in Fleet Street and dates back to 1667. It’s a great spot to enjoy a beer and some traditional pub food. It’s long been a hub for journalists to flock to, and the decor really is something to marvel at.