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Drinking in London’s History on a Historic London Pub Tour

By Jennifer Dombrowski 11 Comments

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One of the best ways to learn about London’s history is by literally drinking your way through some of London’s oldest pubs. No, seriously! We learned more about the Great Fire, wars and London’s literary links on a historic London pub tour than on all of our previous dozen or so jaunts in to London combined.

The exterior of Blackfriar Pub, which looks like a mini version of NYC's Flatiron Building adorned with monk statues

A London Historic Pub Crawl through the City of London

A first little fun fact about London: the metropolis is made up of 33 districts and the City of London, or simply “the City” as it’s known by locals, is the oldest part of London. Though these days some of London’s most famous modern skyscrapers call the City of London home and its known as the financial and business center of London, its history goes back to the Romans forming a settlement there in 1AD.

As the City of London is the oldest part of London, it should come as no surprise that some of oldest pubs in London can also be found there. And it should also be no surprise that some of the finest short term apartments in London can be found nearby. If you’re going on a London pub crawl and don’t want to tote around all your stuff with you, you can find some convenient luggage storage in London nearby while you enjoy the tour.

Fittingly, we met our guide Nigel at St. Paul’s Cathedral to begin our tour of historic London pubs. The pubs we’d be visiting all have a story to tell, and most have links to the Great Fire of London in 1666. City of London pubs also wouldn’t be the only sights we’d see. We’d not only get a few pints of beer, but a London history tour along the way.

The statue of Queen Anne with the towers of St. Paul's Cathedral rising up behind her in London

This one square mile in the center of London was once home to a whopping 140 churches and a mind blowing 3000 pubs and bars. But when the Great Fire of London swept through for nearly five days in September of 1666, it consumed over 13,000 houses and buildings and burned 87 churches, including St. Paul’s Cathedral. By the time the fire was finally extinguished, it had gobbled up a third of London.

We say our pub tour fittingly began at St. Paul’s Cathedral because it was the architect Sir Christopher Wren who not only rebuilt the cathedral, but much of the City of London after the Great Fire. St. Paul’s Cathedral was already in a state of disrepair prior to the fire. Only one week before the Great Fire was kindled on Pudding Lane, a plan was agreed upon for Sir Christopher Wren to restore St. Paul’s and add a dome to it.

After the Great Fire, Sir Christopher Wren rebuilt 52 churches in the City of London, including St. Paul’s Cathedral. Completed in 1710, the cathedral is considered Wren’s masterpiece. St. Paul’s also became the symbol for the Church of England and a renewed capital.

The National Fire Fighters Memorial depicts three fire fighters in action the morning after the Blitz

The Great Fire wouldn’t be the only event in history to drastically change London’s cityscape. Nigel pointed out the National Firefighters Memorial as we walked south from the cathedral toward Knightrider Street and some famous pubs near St. Paul’s. Though the memorial depicts three firefighters in action at the height of the Blitz, it is a reminder of all the firefighters killed in the line of duty throughout the United Kingdom.

The exterior of the Centre Page pub on Knightrider Street in London

The Centre Page , formerly the Horn Tavern, has been standing since the 1660s. It’s recorded in writings as early as April 1663 when Samuel Pepys wrote about it in his famous diaries The Complete diary of Samuel Pepys . It not only survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, but managed to stand through the German’s air raids on London from 1940 – 1941 during WWII.

The Centre Page is also one of the most famous dickensian pubs. Charles Dickens mentioned the Centre Page, known at the time as the Horn Coffee House, in his first novel The Pickwick Papers .

Jennifer and Tim clinking their half pint glasses in front of the bar at the Centre Page in London

The Centre Page is known for their cask ales, and as with all the stops on Walks’ historical pub crawl, half pints were passed around to enjoy.

A balcony rings around the upstairs of The Cockpit where patrons would watch the cockfighting below

Wandering through the tiny lanes of the City of London, we came to one of the infamous backstreet boozers: The Cockpit. It gets it name from its sordid history of the cock fights that took place there. Looking at the surviving gallery, it’s easy to imagine a time when Londoners whooped and yelled from the high galleries around the pit while throwing back booze and gambling as feathers fluttered up toward the 18-foot high ceiling.

One of the more interesting pubs in London, it dates back to the 1800s. The Cockpit wasn’t likely the site of bloody battles between cockerels for too long though, since cock fighting was banned in 1835.

But the history in this building wasn’t always so fowl (see what I did there?). Before it was a pub, the building is said to have been owned by William Shakespeare himself two centuries before cock fighting took place here.

Today The Cockpit is known as one of the best pubs in the City of London. You’ll find a good selection of draft beers and a friendly and warm atmosphere.

A fat, happy monk stands over the corner of the Blackfriar Pub

One of the newer pubs, at least in terms of London history, we visited was the Blackfriar Pub . Nigel also proclaimed it to be his favorite. And of all the pubs near Blackfriars, it’s also many a local’s favorite watering hole while waiting on the infamously delayed transportation at Blackfriars Station.

Built in 1875 on the site of a 13th century Dominican Priory, we’re lucky to have this beautiful pub left in London today. It was nearly demolished in the 1960s, but it was saved in a campaign led by the poet Sir John Betjeman. It’s now a Grade II-listed building.

Wood panel reliefs adorn every wall with jolly monks inside the Blackfriar Pub

Over half pints of the seasonal cask ales available on tap that Nigel selected for us, we heard a bit more about the Dominicans whose long black robes earned them the name Black Friars. In homage to the Black Friars, every where you look the pub is decorated with wooden panel reliefs, statues and even stained glass windows depicting jolly, smiling Black Friars. It’s certainly the atmosphere that makes Blackfriars one of the best pubs in London.

Since medieval times, Fleet Street, named for London’s famous buried river that runs beneath it, has been known for its copious amount of pubs. So it’s no surprise that several of the most historic pubs in London can be found on Fleet Street. And that’s precisely why we headed off toward Fleet Street.

The tiered spire of St. Bridge's Church in London

Nigel snaked through the back lanes for a look at another of Wren’s masterpieces first. Though a church has stood on the site of St. Bride’s Church since at least the 7th century, the current one was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1675. It’s Wren’s second tallest church, with only St. Paul’s standing taller.

The exterior of The Old Bell Tavern with its stained glass window

The church looms over another building Wren designed: the Old Bell Tavern . It was established in 1670 and is the second oldest pub in London. There had previously been a tavern that stood in same the spot, but it consumed by the flames of the Great Fire. Wren rebuilt the pub for the masons working on rebuilding St. Bride’s Church after the Great Fire of London. At one time, one of London’s first printing presses even operated here around 1500.

The Old Bell quickly became the Fleet Street pub of choice among the many printers and journalists working nearby. Hanging near the bar a framed copy of the Daily Mail, which was published the morning after the Blitz, proclaims “St Paul’s stands unharmed in the midst of the burning city”.

The best seat in the tavern is at the front at the tables near the stained glass window, where a kaleidoscope of colors dances on the floor.

Four seaonal beers on tap available at The Old Bell Tavern

Less touristy and frequented than another of London’s oldest taverns, the nearby Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, the Old Bell Tavern is known for its craft beers. The ales change seasonally and Nigel selected two for our small group to try.

It’s also worth nothing that the Old Bell Tavern has a long history of not only attracting drinkers, but foodies too. It was recommended as far back as 1815 when the pub appeared in London’s first ever good food guide, The Epicure’s Almanack of 1815 . It’s no wonder The Old Bell Tavern is known to be among the best old pubs in London.

The exterior of The Tipperary, which is green and decorated with shamrocks and flowers

Our pub crawl ended just a short walk down Fleet Street from the Old Bell at another of the famous pubs in London. The Tipperary was built with stones taken from the Whitefriars Monastery in 1605, and the pub managed to survive the inferno of the Great Fire of London in 1666.

It was originally called The Boar’s Head, until it was purchased by Mooney’s Brewery of Dublin in 1700. The name was then renamed to The Tipperary to commemorate the Great War song.

Guinness on tap inside The Tipperary in London

As proclaimed by a sign outside, they claim to be the first Irish pub in London and the first to sell Guinness in England. Whether or not the claim is actually true is debated, but there’s no denying they’re proud of their Irish heritage. Shamrocks abound in the mosaic tile floor and Guinness is on tap.

While you could go on your own pub crawl of these City of London historic pubs, you’d be missing out on the hidden sites and interesting facts we learned along the way by taking a guided tour.

At around $22 per person (the average cost of a pint of beer in London is around £5 or about $6), it was well worth it for the good beer and entertaining history lesson. Leaving in the afternoon, it’s the best pub crawl in London if you want something a little more low-key, want to learn some interesting history of London and are looking for recommendations of the best pubs in London.

Know Before You Go

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

July 20, 2019 at 11:56 AM

This looks like such a great tour. I’m not a beer drinker but love how the Brittish pubs also have cider on tap!

Juergen Klein says

July 21, 2019 at 1:42 PM

I don\’t know if for me a Historic London Pub Tour would be the best way to learn about the city. I\’m not a beer drinker and I never drink before the evening… In any case, I would assume that alcohol would probably cloud my memory of all the facts to remember from the tour. I was surprised to read that the Old Bell Tavern, established in 1670, is the second oldest pub in London. In small villages of the UK you can often find historic pubs dating back to the 12th, 13th, or 14th century.

Jennifer Dombrowski says

July 22, 2019 at 10:30 AM

You can enjoy a beer or a drink without getting drunk. With walking and taking time between each of the pubs to see little known about sites in the City of London, everyone from our small group enjoyed and remembered the tour.

Small villages in the UK didn’t have the Great Fire that basically obliterated London. The City of London is the oldest part of London and the fire ravished it. Over 1/3 was destroyed. So it’s really not surprising that the Old Bell is the second oldest pub in London.

Hannah says

July 22, 2019 at 10:29 AM

I can’t believe the Blackfriar pub was nearly demolished! The 1960s have a lot to answer for architecturally! The Old Bell used to be our “local” near my office, so is a favourite of mine. I don’t drink beer, but enjoyed Thistly Cross cider amongst other tipples!

July 22, 2019 at 11:28 AM

And the funny thing is after looking at this post… I drank in all of the pubs! 😀 Black Frair is my favorite, I love the architecture there and they serve my favorite craft beer. Not bad food in there either 🙂

Linda (LD Holland) says

July 23, 2019 at 8:26 AM

We are in London in August. So maybe we will follow you on a pub tour! Hubby does love his thick stout beers. Great to get a little sightseeing and history on your pub tour too. Although by the end of a pub crawl I might not be remembering much. We will definitely want to visit the Cockpit if it is one of the best pubs in London. Interesting that the Old Bell Tavern was rebuilt by Wren after the Great Fire.

sherianne says

July 23, 2019 at 3:10 PM

I love how ornate the pubs are in England. I did a DIY pub crawl through London’s Fleet Street and I see now that was a mistake, the history provide on a tour is what brings these places to life

Chris Bloomfield says

July 23, 2019 at 5:50 PM

The Blackfriar Pub sounds like a church where you can drink beer and that is pretty cool! The Old Bell Tavern must be doing something right in the kitchen, since it has been recommended for more than two hundred years! I love history, so this walk sounds like something I would love to do.

Rosemary says

July 23, 2019 at 10:10 PM

Even though I’m not a beer drinker, I do appreciate exploring a place through a historical food or drink. The pubs you visited each have an amazing story to tell. The decor in the Blackfriars is quite impressive and it is no wonder it is so popular. What a fun and unique way to explore London, while drinking and tasting the local culture.

Tami Wilcox says

July 26, 2019 at 6:42 AM

3000 pubs and bars! Oh my gosh! I’m always up for a good historic tour, and I’m actually headed to London next month, so this was very intereting to me. There’s so much to do and see in London, I’ve been challenged narrowing it down, but I will check into this!

July 29, 2019 at 2:59 AM

I have been lucky enough to visit London on business and was taken to pubs after work, it is such a unique and fun culture! I love food and beverage tours, so doing one on pubs would be a lot of fun!

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London Historical Pub Walking Tour

London Historical Pub Walking Tour

Our London pub tour takes you to some of the most historic pubs and watering holes in the city. It’s a great way to get a feel for one of Britain’s most famous cultural pastimes. You’ll get to visit London’s most famous pubs & ale houses on a guided afternoon walk. Your entertaining guide will share infamous stories about London, as you pass some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

London Pub Tour:

  • Visit some of the oldest pubs, alehouses and taverns in the city! These ancient hidden gems will be brought to life by your guide
  • You’ll visit at least 4 of London’s oldest inns, taverns and gin places
  • Drink along “The Street of Shame”, following in the footsteps of Dickens and Shakespeare
  • Hear stories about London’s most ghostly pub and learn lots of fun, interesting facts from your friendly guide
  • Enjoy classic London sights including St Paul’s Cathedral as you walk through narrow cobbled streets
  • At the end of the tour, why not enjoy some pub food like fish & chips?

Why take this tour?

English is famous for its drinking heritage, and London has long been associated with its many pubs and taverns. It’s a long-standing British tradition to enjoy a few pints of beer and this tour will give you a taste of this culture. You’ll get to see some of London’s most famous watering holes, with plenty of stories to keep you entertained along the way. A great way to spend 3-4 hours in the city!

Tour Includes:

  • Professional tour guide
  • Walking tour

Tour Excludes:

  • The food and drink are not included in the tour price. You will need to bring some cash so that you can buy your own drinks.
  • Meeting point: Outside St Paul’s Underground Station (Exit 2)
  • End point: Close to Holborn Underground Station (at approx. 5-6pm)
  • The tour lasts 3-4 hours
  • This is a small group tour that operates with a maximum of 14 people
  • You must give 72 hours notice of departure in order to cancel this product
  • If you appear to be under the age of 25, you need to bring photo ID
  • Its strongly encouraged for you to have some lunch before the tour, as there is not time to have lunch during the tour.

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

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Historic London Pub Tour

london pub history tour

Tour Information

Historic london pub tour highlights.

Join us on the City of London pub tour to see the most; iconic, historic, and unusual pubs in London.

You will get to experience London like a true local visiting some of London's best traditional pubs and hidden gems with an entertaining local guide.

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Click here to view our full selection of free London walking tours .

We will explore secret alleyways and hear Tales from some of London’s greatest pubs, from where people have imbibed for over 500 years.

We will learn about the origin of London's famed Gin Palaces of the 19th Century as we wander through streets that would have been home to beggars, thieves, and vagabonds.

London Historic Pubs Tou

We'll discover five iconic watering holes visited by some of London's most infamous characters, each with a history to tell.

These include some of the best-preserved traditional pubs in England.

Each pub we visit will have a very different atmosphere and history but all share a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a wonderful building.

Highlights:

  • Visit pubs frequented by London's most famous poets, writers, and free thinkers!
  • Follow in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth I and visit the hardest-to-find pub in London.
  • Explore parts of London as a local and get away from the tourist crowd.
  • Drink in a pub that has actual jail cells in the basement from medieval times.
  • See the first Irish Pub outside of Ireland.
  • Hear the tales of and visit some of the famed Victorian Gin Palaces!

What else you should know

It's a walking tour, but there's not a lot of distance involved.

Having said that, the alleys can be very narrow and there are a small number of steps to climb throughout. Wear comfortable shoes! 

Pubs will accept cash or card payments for drinks as you prefer. You will need to pay for your own drinks during the tour!

london pub history tour

This is a tour for guests aged 18 and over only.

What to bring : Photographic ID (18 years and over only) .

Where: Outside The Blackfriar Pub (opposite Blackfriars Station - North of the river Thames). The tour finishes near Holborn Station.

london pub history tour

Duration: Approximately 2.5 - 3 Hours

When:  Wednesdays at 16:00 Book online HERE .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

The average cost of a pint is £7.

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Join us for a walk through London’s infamous liquid history...

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PURVEYOR OF LONDONS FINEST PUB TOURS

With over 3000 pubs in london, we handpick the best of the bunch for a leisurely stroll through the heart of london’s liquid history..

Believing small really is beautiful we maximize our group sizes to just 14 clients, helping us to explore the road less travelled and share some of London’s quirkier history along the way.

Whether you are a first time visitor to the city or lived here all your life, our local guides will open your eyes & ears to another side of London whilst sharing a drink or two with you along the way.

london pub history tour

Brad, USA “This experience was really so much more than just a pub tour. Yes, we went to numerous historic & beautiful pubs and our excellent tour guide was well versed in the history of the pubs and the ales we sampled. But we also walked the City of London and the guide was also extremely well versed in both the local history and architecture. I can not say enough positive comments about this experience”
Cameron, New Zealand “We did this on our first day in London and it was a great start to the trip. Our wonderful guide took to us to really interesting, unique pubs around London that we may have not thought to venture into on our own. We learned a lot of history about the pubs and the city itself and drank many delicious beers, ciders, and gin.”
Mateusz, London “I'm very interested in the history of London and not many people can surprise me with some new interesting facts but our guide on the tour showed to me that I still need to learn lot”
Rob, Nottingham, UK “The relaxed pace and style of the tour was brilliant. Learned so much about the city and it's history, in spite of having been several times before. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes history and a pint of ale!”

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Ideal for birthdays, celebrations and any other special event, you can experience London with your family, friends and work colleagues with a tour tailored to your interests.

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“There is nothing which has yet been contrived by man, by which so much happiness is produced as by a good tavern or inn.” Dr Samuel Johnson

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london pub history tour

Liquid History Tours

Founded by local Londoners to celebrate the quirkier side of London life & history. Perfect for the culturally curious, our small group walking tours delve into the road less-travelled. Escape the bustle and join us as we dive into the heart of London’s liquid history.

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Historic Pub Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Historic Pub Tours

The fun way to experience london, explore ancient laneways and amazing pubs and hear tales of naughty, crazy music legends, famous actors and infamous criminals., virtual experiences.

Bringing the best of British pub culture through this hilarious interactive virtual experience, and all from the comfort of your own home or office.

Perfect for drinks with friends, team building or a gift that's outside the box.

london pub history tour

We're a collection of local and veteran entertainers, history buffs and musical guides, who've come together to show you the hidden depths of London and its secret venues and best locations. 

Experience London like a true local, in the company of a true local. 

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Historic Pub Tours

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London has been home to some of the greatest musicians, artists, actors and criminals in history, from the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix to Karl Marx, George Orwell and Shakespeare.  

Come visit the same venues, pubs and areas that they all frequented, partied and played.

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Want to visit London's most iconic landmarks and Old City sections, but don't want a regular boring tour? 

Why not discover and explore London, while taking regular breaks to enjoy a drink at some of London's grandest and most historical pubs too!

london pub history tour

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Historical Pub Walking Tour of London

Historical Pub Walking Tour of London

Experience a Historical Pub Walking Tour of London on this afternoon pub crawl. Accompany your guide on a fun and educational tour in and around the city, where you’ll visit at least four historic pubs and taste different brews (own expense). Pop into centuries-old ale houses, see literary haunts favoured by writers like Charles Dickens and learn about local drinking culture through the ages.

Walking Tour Highlight:

  • Visit four traditional London pubs in London Bridge, the City of London, Fleet Street, and Holborn
  • Discover what a real London pub looks like on a visit to an alehouse in Blackfriars
  • Sit down in a pub once frequented by Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Small-group tour with a maximum of 14 people ensures a more personalised experience
  • Duration of the Tour – 3 to 4 hours Approx.

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What’s Included in the Pub Walking Tour

  • Local guide
  • Food and drinks

Book this Tour

Departure & Return

Departure point.

30 Newgate St, London EC1A 7HL, UK. Please check below for the Google map. Your guide will see you outside Cafe Nero on Panyer Alley.

Departure Time

Return details.

Kingsway, Holborn, London WC2B 6AA, UK

What To Expect from the Tour

Your afternoon pub tour begins at St. Paul’s, where you will meet your guide and set off for the first stop of your tour. As you walk, check out city attractions like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the bustling Fleet Street. Pass the site of a Shakespearean playhouse, then pop into the Art Nouveau Pub at Blackfriars for a drink. Grab a pint (own expense) and enjoy colourful stories from this neighbourhood’s banking community.

London Pub Tour

Next, head down Fleet Street, flush with pubs and gin palaces to service the journalists and literary greats of the day. Stop at a proper London boozer for a civilised drinking experience. Buy yourself a delicious local ale (or two), admire the authentic medieval decor, and enjoy the buzz as regulars and newcomers fill up the wooden tables surrounding the horseshoe bar.

Continue along Fleet Street, the former stomping grounds of Charles Dickens, who once resided in Furnival’s Inn (now Holborn Bars). Visit a 17th-century pub that was a favourite of Dickens and fellow writers Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Alfred Lord Tennyson. Sip on a delicious beer and cider (not included) and soak up the literary history of the place.

Your tour ends at the edge of Covent Garden with plenty of time (and insider information) to continue the fun at another local pub. Don’t miss out on this great weekend tour. Quench your thirst this summer, and enjoy a historical pub walking tour of London.

the black friar art nouveau pub london

Itinerary of the Pub Tour

Pass By: St. Paul’s Cathedral

Enjoy fine views and the quirky history of the area.

Stop At: Blackfriars Bridge

Visit London’s finest art nouveau pub

Duration: 15 minutes

Admission Ticket Free

Pass By: St Bride’s Church

Hear the tale of the “Wedding Cake” church

Pass By: Fleet Street

Explore the “street of shame” and visit a number of historic pubs

Pass By: Dr Johnson’s House

See the home of the famous wordsmith and meet his favourite cat Mr Hodge

Pass By: Prince Henry’s Room

See a building dating to 1610 and the gateway to the Knight’s Templar

Stop At: The Old Bank of England Pub

See London’s finest banking hall, and now a pub

Duration: 20 minutes

Admission Ticket Free:

Pass By: Royal Courts of Justice

Listen to the legal tales and enjoy the majestic architecture

Pass By:  Lincoln’s Inn

See London’s oldest tailor and traverse the heart of legal London.

Pass By:  Sir John Soane’s Museum

Be inspired to return to this exquisite collection.

Stop At  Princess Louise We sometimes stop for a drink in this fine Victorian gin palace-style watering hole.

Pass By: Covent Garden

We finish our walk on the edge of Covent Garden with more pubs and restaurants a short walk away.

Additional Tour Info:

  • Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
  • The minimum age is 18 years
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Most travellers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travellers

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

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15 Best London History Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to book the best London history tours?

You’ve come to the right place because I’m covering the top London history Tours here.

How do I know?

I’ve lived in England since 2012 and have explored far and wide, so I know that one of the best things to do in London for history buffs is book a tour and explore.

Only quality tours are included in this list so you know that every tour you book is worth your money and time.

Don’t want to read to the end of the article?

The best tour of London History is: Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History.   

It has 5 out of 5 stars with over 100 reviews, so you can’t go wrong!

london pub history tour

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London history tour is the Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

There are plenty of other London history tours to choose from, so let’s get right down to it.

In this list, you’ll find 15 of the top-rated London history tours so you know you’re making the right choice.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best London History Tours

1. roman ruins to blitz bombings: a walking tour of london’s fiery history : history tours in london.

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 110+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

  • Walking tour
  • Small group tour 
  • Learn obscure trivia

History buffs might think they already know everything about London’s history.

This tour will dive even deeper than you ever have!

Even the most learned historians will learn something new on this tour.

Learn about more than 2,000 years’ worth of history.

This well-rounded tour will teach you about the Roman ruins, the Blitz bombings, Charles Dickens, and Anne Boleyn. 

Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll get to see the attractions up close. This is so much better than hoping to get a window seat on a tour bus!

At each of the 9 stops, you’ll be able to snap a picture and learn something interesting.

2. Natural History Museum London – Private Guided Museum Tour : history walking tours in London

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 79+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Guided Museum Tour
  • Tour Guide Exclusively For You
  • Duration 2 hours
  • Wheelchair Friendly

If you’re traveling with kids, consider booking this tour . They will have so much fun learning about history and you’ll also learn a lot!

While you can explore the museum on your own, there are benefits to hiring a guide.

They’ll tell you the highlights of each exhibit so you don’t have to read everything. This is especially great if you have kids running around.

He’ll also help you get through the museum efficiently.

Otherwise, you might spend all day there and glean the same amount of information.

3. The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try many British Foods) : London history walks

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 24+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Coffee or Tea

Calling all foodies! If you want to taste the best of Britain while learning about its history, book this tour now .

This small group tour will bring you to the best versions of classic British grub.

While you’re trying the iconic food, you’ll also learn the history of Britain and its food.

You won’t have enough time to eat at all the good restaurants in the area.

Fortunately, the tour guide will give you plenty of recommendations for the rest of your trip!

You’ll walk by many historic landmarks but will spend most of your time at the Borough Market.

This is where you will find the best food in the city.

4. London Witches and History Walking Tour

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 23+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  75 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Costumed ‘in-character’ guide
  • Harry Potter trivia

On this walking tour , you’ll learn about the witchy history of London.

Your knowledgeable guide will also be dressed in costume.

This is a good sign that they know how to have fun and will make sure everybody in the tour group is having a blast!

The guide will teach you a lot about history and magic.

You’ll especially learn about the witch trials and hauntings of London’s past. Which iconic landmarks have a spooky history?

And Harry Potter fans will be excited to catch a glimpse of some filming sites.

5. Kid-Friendly Natural History Museum & Dinosaurs Private Guided Tour in London : historic London walks

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  2.5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  50 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Blue Badge guide
  • Professional art historian guide
  • Professional Kid-Friendly Guide
  • Private tour

If you love history and have young kids, this is a good tour for you. The kids will have a blast and learn so much!

They won’t complain about being bored a single time.

But just because it’s for kids doesn’t mean you won’t learn anything.

Even history buffs will learn something new on this tour!

The guide knows the best parts of the museum.

This means that you won’t miss anything important. He’ll also be able to summarize all the important information so you don’t have to read every word on every sign.

6. History of London Photography Tour

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Led by a professional photographer
  • Amazing photo opportunities
  • Professional photography advice
  • Fascinating historical facts

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to take gorgeous photos wherever you go, then you’ll love this tour .

Not only will you have plenty of photo ops, you’ll learn the best tips for capturing those pictures.

With 10 stops, you’ll see the quintessential corners of London.

You’ll learn some interesting tidbits about the area’s history.

And you’ll take astonishing photos that will look like they belong on a magazine cover!

Whether you love looking at photographs of the city or would rather be behind the lens, you’ll enjoy this tour.

And you’ll really love showing off the pictures to your friends when you get home!

7. The Beatles Magical History Black Taxi Tour London

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 29+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4-5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Private Transportation in a Licensed London Black Taxi
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Bottled water
  • Parking Fees

Beatles fans will love this tour !

Music lovers in general will be able to enjoy learning the history revolving around this iconic band.

You’ll follow in the footsteps of these legendary musicians and learn about their history.

Spend some time at Abbey Road Studios and immerse yourself in music history.

You’ll even have a chance to get your picture taken while walking across the street!

Relive the ‘60s at Carnaby Street. See where Beatlemania was born at the London Palladium.

And visit 3 Savile Row where you can discover so much Beatles memorabilia at the place where they held their last live show.

8. Pub Tour London (Drinking History)

london pub history tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-2 hours| ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Small group
  • London history

This tour is limited to 6 people so you’ll be able to bond with the others as you drink your way through London!

You’ll explore London and even see a lot of parts that you might have missed. You’ll also learn a little bit about the history everywhere you go!

The highlight of this tour is Fleet Street.

Home to several historic pubs, you’ll learn about their history and their brews.

Be sure to enjoy a drink in the same places as Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Samuel Johnson.

9. The Natural History Museum of London: Private Half-Day Tour

Natural History Museum London. Large room with stone steps and ceiling windows.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Professional guide
  • Reserved entrance time
  • Personalized experience

The Natural History Museum in London is a must-see attraction!

It’s often considered the most important center for the research of natural history and sciences.

This museum is huge and can be hard to get through.

That’s why you should hire a guide to make sure you see all the important parts!

They can also summarize the information so that you can get the highlights without reading every single sign.

Since it’s a private tour, it can be personalized to your preferences.

Spend more time on your favorite exhibits and less time on those that you don’t find interesting.

10.   London’s Hidden Gems and Secret History Private Guided Tour

london pub history tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

If you want to see parts of London that only the locals know about, go on this tour .

You’ll see landmarks that you’ve probably never even heard about before.

But by the end of the tour, you’ll know the interesting history behind each of these stops! 

The local guide will help you have an enjoyable tour and give you tips for the rest of your trip.

He’ll bring you on a route that you probably never would’ve found on your own.

He’ll also share all the inside information that even a lot of locals don’t know!

11. Brixton History and Culture Private Walking Tour : historical tours in London

london pub history tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Local guide
  • Cultural history
  • Quintessential locations

If you love exploring the cultural scene, you’ll love Brixton.

This is the most diverse area of London.

Brixton is home to several types of international cuisine.

This neighborhood has a rich history of immigrants settling in.

You’ll also find a variety of art!

With 5 main stops, this tour will cover the main attractions of Brixton.

You’ll have a deeper appreciation for many of the cultures in this world.

You’ll also see the results of what happens when people come from all over the world to live in the same area.

12. World War II History in London Private Guided Tour : history tours London

Imperial War Museum

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-7 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Private Walking Tour of London WWII Sights 
  • 5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
  • Skip-the-line tickets to the Churchill War Rooms (only in 4 and 7-hour options)
  • Free admission to the Imperial War Museum (only in 7-hour option)

World War II buffs will enjoy this tour . Explore the main WW2 sites of London on this tour.

You can choose a 2-hour, 4-hour, or 7-hour option depending on how much you want to see!

The tour begins at Waterloo Place and includes a visit to Royal Naval Division War Memorial and the Palace of Westminster.

If you choose a longer tour, you will get to visit the Churchill War Rooms.

On the longest tour, you’ll also have admission to the Imperial War Museum.

If you have all day, this is the best way to learn about the Second World War! If you only have a few hours, you’ll still be able to learn a lot!

13. London History Taxi Tours

london pub history tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 21+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Private transportation
  • London History tour
  • Several photo ops

Your knowledgeable tour guide will know his way around the city and be able to get you everywhere safely and efficiently.

He’ll pass by the most iconic London landmarks so you’ll have a chance to see everything on your bucket list!

This private tour is personalizable and flexible.

You’ll be able to adjust the itinerary to spend more or less time at different locations since there won’t be a ton of other tourists!

You’ll stop at 6 places, including Mayfair, Southwark, and the Financial Centre of London and the UK.

14. Unique Mayfair Lifestyle and History Walk – Private Custom Tour

london pub history tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Private, personalized itinerary
  • Expert Local Guide
  • Additional suggestions for the rest of your stay

Mayfair is a quite trendy part of London. Experience the architecture. Enjoy the fashion scene. Explore hidden passages.

Not only will you visit art galleries and designer stores.

You’ll also learn about their history on this tour .

Visit Mayfair, Savile Row, and Bond Street.

Learn what makes them so iconic in the London art scene!

Stop by St. James’ Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Fortnum & Mason. See how they are still influencing modern-day art.

You’ll have a chance to do some shopping and taste some tea.

You’ll also get to bond with other tourists who have similar mindsets as you.

15. 2-Hour Private LGBTQ+ History Tour of London with a Licensed Guide

london pub history tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Private Tour
  • Professional qualified guide
  • Tour of Bloomsbury
  • London’s LGBTQ history and culture

This private tour accommodates up to 15 people who are excited to learn about LGBTQ history in London.

Explore the Bloomsbury district as you learn about the artists, writers, and philosophers who played a big role in shaping London’s LGBTQ community.

Your guide will share a wealth of information, including over 300 years’ worth of LGBTQ history.

Instead of the history lessons you’ve learned before, you’ll learn about history from a minority’s perspective.

This will help to shape your ideas about everything you know!

You’ll even learn some Polari, a secret gay language in London.

Want more London tours? Check these out!

  • 13 Best London Tours with Afternoon Tea
  • 5 Best London Speedboat Tours
  • 5 Best Tower of London Tours
  • 5 Best Westminster Tours in London
  • 5 Best Winston Churchill Tours in London
  • 7 Best Borough Market Tours
  • 7 Best James Bond Tours
  • 7 Best Black Cab Tours of London
  • 11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors
  • 11 Best London Art Tours
  • 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
  • 11 Best Full Day London Tours
  • 9 Best Tours of London’s East End
  • 11 Best Private Tours in London
  • 17 Best London Food Tours
  • 17 Best London Harry Potter Tours
  • 11 Best London Bus Tours
  • 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
  • 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
  • 9 Best London Literary Tours for Bookworms
  • 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Bike Tours
  • 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Museum Tours
  • 21 Best London Walking Tours
  • 11 Best London Rock N Roll Tours
  • 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
  • 19 Unique London Tours
  • 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
  • 7 Best London Helicopter Tours

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the tour guy travel blog

10 Best and Most Historic English Pubs In London in 2024

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: October 30, 2023

London has an amazing history and some of its pubs date back to the 16th century. Using my local knowledge, I can point you toward your first stop for a welcoming atmosphere and memorable drinking experience. Not all of them are historical landmarks, but all are amongst the capital’s best pubs. Check out the best English pubs in London with history.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our  best London tours  for a memorable trip, and the  top things to do in London .

10 Top Pubs In London with History

If you’re visiting London, you have to make a stop at an English pub. And with a history as rich as London’s, you might as well make it a historical pub! However, not all are created equal.

As a local expert, I’ve put together this list of the best and most historic pubs in London. Expect great beer, a warm and inviting atmosphere and, in some cases, tourist attractions close by. Want to see the best of London in a day ? Check out our awesome London tours and day trips.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

10. Spaniards Inn

london pub history tour

Historic | 16th Century | Great English Poets | Hampstead

This historic pub in leafy Hampstead oozes character. Built in 1585, they’ve tried to retain some of the 16th-century authenticity with antique-looking furnishings and fireplace. It’s not particularly close to a train station, but you’ll enjoy the trek through quiet lanes and greenery to find it. 

Britain’s greatest writers including poets Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and his wife Frankenstein author Mary Shelley are said to have been pub regulars here. Interestingly, the publicans also claim another great English poet John Keats wrote his classic poem “Ode to A Nightingale” in the beer garden.

Address: Spaniards Rd

9. Brew Dog

london pub history tour

€€ | Super-sized | Specialist | Craft Beers | Tower Hill Tourism | Historic Church

If you’ve ever drunk at a highly recommended pub but still believe all beer tastes the same, then this pub is my personal recommendation for an unforgettable drinking experience. It’s easy to find because it is one of London’s biggest pubs and seems to take up a whole block on one end of the street! 

Some of their specialty craft beers are pricey, but you can buy quarter pints to sample their rich variety without going over budget. It’s not too far from attractions in London’s Tower Hill like the Tower of London. Also, All Hallows-by-the-Tower, one of London’s oldest churches and St. Dunstan in the East, the ruins of a gothic church are nearby.

Address: 21 Great Tower St

Popular London Tours

london pub history tour

Best Selling Tour

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

How can you explore London’s top attractions without getting overwhelmed? By joining this guided small group tour! With 1,000 years of history and acres of buildings, the Tower of London is easier to explore and understand with the help of your local guide. Best of all, you’ll even see the famous crown jewels and have a boat ride down the River Thames.

london pub history tour

Top Selling Tour

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

This is the perfect tour for someone who wants to get to know the real Westminster Abbey. With skip-the-line entry, you get some quiet time in the nave of the abbey with your guide and small group before exploring the tombs of notable kings, queens, philosophers, and more. Depending on the day, you’ll even get to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out the best London tours to take and why .

8. The Lamb & Flag

london pub history tour

Very Small | Covent Garden | West End | Outdoor Drinking | Laid Back

Whether or not this is London’s smallest pub, it certainly has an interesting history. There’s barely room to squeeze past customers and order your drink, yet tourists flock here in spite of, or because of this. Remarkably, there are more people standing outside with their drinks than inside, because they can’t fit in!

In the 1800s, it was notorious for holding illegal bare-knuckle fights and there are vintage fight posters that highlight this historic connection. Also, poet John Dryden was allegedly attacked in the pub’s alley by thugs sent by the Earl of Rochester. The pub’s owners have honoured Dryden by naming one of their upstairs rooms after him.

Address : 33 Rose St

7. Founders Arms

london pub history tour

Riverside Pub | Stunning Views | Bankside Tourist Attractions | Tate Modern | Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

You can soak up the unique atmosphere of London’s Bankside and enjoy amazing views along the River Thames. This pub reaps the benefits of such a location with lots of full-length windows and a riverside terrace. Notably, it’s in Southwark’s cultural centre minutes away from the Tate Modern gallery and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. So, explore Bankside!

Attractions such as Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hinde galleon and the Clink Museum are also along this stretch of the river. But my advice is to get a riverside table and enjoy the magnificent views of St Paul’s Cathedral at night. You’ll agree, few pubs can match the combination of lively tourist location and down-to-earth pub vibe. 

Address: 52 Hopton St

6. The Dove

london pub history tour

London’s Smallest Pub | Locals Rather Than Tourists | Laid Back | King Charles II

It’s a peculiar coincidence that London’s smallest pubs also seem to have the most interesting histories. Here again, this pub was once in the Guinness Book of Records for having the UK’s smallest bar.

Locals and publicans alike take pride in the rumours that King Charles II visited with his mistress Nell Gwyn. One might guess that these historic figures sought these small, off-the-beaten-track pubs to get some privacy. Similarly, I recommend you visit if you want somewhere a little quieter. 

Address: 19 Upper Mall

5. The Good Mixer

london pub history tour

Traditional | Local Favourite | Britpop | Oasis vs Blur | Amy Winehouse | Live Music | Camden

At first glance, this Camden Town pub doesn’t seem to have that stand out quality as something special. What sets the Good Mixer apart is its connection to British pop history. Camden is where the Britpop independent rock movement of the 1990s took off and most of its stars headed for The Good Mixer. 

There’s a much-repeated story about Liam Gallagher from Oasis and Graham Coxon, the guitarist from Blur, having a light-hearted disagreement in the bar. Bar stool gossip turned it into a Britpop rivalry, which triggered their race to top the music charts first. It still attracts rock musicians and fans but the hardcore customers are locals who have seen new owners and trends come and go over the years.

Address: 30 Inverness St

4. The Rake

london pub history tour

€€€ | Small | Non-Traditional | Specialist | International Selection | Craft And Keg Beers

The rather flat and plain-looking exterior tells you this is not a traditional English pub. Most English pubs have an architectural quality that links them with a period in history, such as Tudor, Georgian, or Edwardian.

However, this more modern pub was never made to attract the average drinker but is a must-visit for beer lovers who are true connoisseurs or anyone who wants to sample specialty craft beers.

Interestingly, it was in the national press a few years ago for serving the country’s most expensive beers but it serves reasonably priced pints as well. It’s also one of London’s smallest pubs. All those extras that traditional English customers love such as darts, snooker and Sky TV are not needed here, nor is there space for them. 

Address: Borough Market, 14A Winchester Walk

3. Worlds End

london pub history tour

London’s Biggest Pubs | Very Popular | Rock Music Fans | Underworld Club | Live Music | Camden

The Worlds End is a landmark pub in Camden Town and is known throughout the UK for its rock music-loving customers. One of the reasons visitors prefer this pub is because it’s literally across the road from the train station. But more importantly, it has vyed for the position of London’s largest pub over the years and word quickly gets around about the huge crowds inside that spill outside and the buzzing atmosphere.

This North London pub has an equally famous basement club called The Underworld. I’d say, pick the Worlds End to socialise over a beer and the Underworld for rock gigs but don’t expect your conversation to be heard in either.

Address : 174 Camden High St

2. The Crown Tavern

london pub history tour

€€ | Quiet | Traditional | Family Pub | Lenin And Stalin

At first glance, there’s nothing remarkable about the look of this pub. However, it’s spotlessly clean, warm and inviting, has polite staff, and is certainly a match for other local pubs. But its appeal has grown around rumours about its historic clientele.

There are unsubstantiated stories about Lenin and Stalin hooking up for a pint here in 1905. This is claimed to be their first meeting in the UK. As a result, the pub attracts a flow of customers because of this story alone.

Address: 43 Clerkenwell Grn

1. Blind Beggar

london pub history tour

London’s East End | Quiet | Local Favourite | The Kray Twins | Footballer Bobby Moore

This traditional pub in a working-class area of London’s East End is notorious as the place where 1960s gangsters Reggie and Ronnie Kray used to drink and also killed a rival gangster. It’s now a landmark in East End history and the gangland connection remains to this day. That said, the current owners are unconnected to that lifestyle.

Many curious visitors seek it out to walk in the footsteps of the Krays. However, it’s a very quiet, traditional pub and no longer has the star attraction which saw celebrities such as actress Barbara Windsor and England football captain Bobby Moore frequenting it in the 1960s. Bobby Moore even owned the pub in 1966, which was the year England won the World Cup.

Address: 337 Whitechapel Rd

london pub history tour

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Reader Interactions

Comments (2).

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January 6, 2022

Tell me you hate beer without telling me you hate beer… listing a brewdog as your first choice for top London pubs

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January 7, 2022

Haha.. its true, we do skew toward wine as an organization. Why don’t you like Brewdog?

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Money blog: Are you really getting a tax cut? Any help for pensioners? What does this mean for election date? Join our live Q&A

Read the Money blog for all the latest consumer news - with insight into what today's budget means for your pocket. Watch and follow our live Q&A from 3.30pm - and submit a question below.

Wednesday 6 March 2024 16:57, UK

  • Follow this blog for consumer news and insight into what budget means for you. For comprehensive coverage of the budget, check out our Politics Hub
  • Spring budget - what was announced?
  • Calculator : Are you really getting more in your pay packet? National insurance cut vs income tax threshold freeze
  • A British ISA - what does it mean and does it help savers?
  • Paul Kelso analysis : Budget a rabbit-free zone showing little has moved since autumn
  • Nationwide criticises chancellor

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

Judging by the political, business and independent forecaster reaction, this was a budget that shattered no one's world. 

There's been no whopping economic reaction but the markets are noticeably pleased.

The indexes of most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange are all up. The FTSE 100 of 100 most valuable companies is this afternoon at a high not seen in more than a week. There are even bigger gains on the larger index, the FTSE 250, which rose to the highest level since the start of the year. 

Before Jeremy Hunt even started announcing his budget the pound was up against the dollar, up near a monthly high. That ticked upwards again once he stopped talking and £1 buys $1.2733.

Sterling fell against the euro, however, with £1 equal to €1.1682, down from €1.1707 this morning. Just a few weeks ago a high of €1.1766 was reached.

For the last couple of hours a panel of experts have been answering your questions about the budget - and what it means for your bank balance.

Thanks to the thousands of people who submitted questions - and sorry if we didn't get to yours.

Scroll down to read through the answers.

Thanks to our experts:   Greg Marsh, consumer champion and CEO of household money-saving tool Nous.co; Robert Salter, associate director at financial advisers Blick Rothenberg; Iona Bain, founder of the Young Money Blog; business correspondent Paul Kelso; and political correspondents Matthew Thompson and Gurpreet Narwan.

How has this gone down with the people Hunt was desperate to please - Tory MPs?

Matthew Thompson, political correspondent, says: "You are very astute, Izzy. 

"Certainly, polling data suggests the British public would slightly prefer public spending increases to tax cuts, though that gap is narrowing. But it has led people to question whether the focus on tax cuts at this budget was more aimed at internal party management than at the public's priorities.

"Some Tory MPs will be happy that they now have a significant retail offer to take back to their constituents. But others will be unhappy that the chancellor did not go further. Not least the former home secretary Priti Patel, who told Sky News yesterday that the overall tax burden was still too high.

"Let's not forget even in spite of today's tax cuts, it is still set to hit record highs by 2028/29. Dame Priti, and many others like her in the party, are deeply unhappy at that state of affairs.

"And that is to say nothing of the open revolt that is breaking out among Scottish Conservative MPs, who are livid over the decision to extend the windfall tax on energy companies."

Was there any help for struggling mortgage holders and how worried should we be about recent rises in mortgage rates?

Greg Marsh, CEO of Nous.co, says:  "The chancellor didn't reveal any specific new help for mortgage holders in his spring budget today.

"Anyone struggling to meet their monthly payments at the moment can apply for help under the government's mortgage charter, which came into force last summer.

"The policy allows households to temporarily swap to interest-only payments, or extend their mortgage term for a set period - without it having an impact on their credit rating. 

"For the 1.2 million mortgage holders due to refinance this year, this is going to be a seriously worrying time.

"Two years ago, a typical household could get a mortgage for less than 2% whereas now the average rate is considerably above 5%.

"Someone with a typical £200,000 mortgage who fixed two years ago and is refinancing today will see their payments increase by just over £400 per month, or around £5,000 per year."

Emily James :

Is national insurance cut effectively offset by the tax threshold freeze until 2028?

Robert Salter, associate director at financial advisers Blick Rothenberg, says: "While taxpayers - or rather those taxpayers who are in employment or self-employment - should welcome the 2% drop in employee and self-employed national insurance contributions, it is fair to say this cut is not necessarily a tax cut for most of the population. 

"For example, people who are living on pension income, savings or letting income have not been liable to NICs and will get no benefit from the cut.  

"Moreover, many employees and self-employed individuals will still be 'caught out' and overall pay higher taxes despite the NIC cut, through the process of fiscal drag. This is when they are drawn into paying taxes at higher rates simply because of an inflation-linked increase in their pay. 

"However, whether people 'win' (via the NIC cuts) or lose because of the impact of fiscal drag will depend on each person's exact position and also assumptions one makes about future pay rises and the like.  

"However, someone on a zero-hour contract or doing seasonal work, for example, is increasingly likely to become liable to income taxes (and NICs), because the annual personal tax allowance has remained at £12,570 and would typically therefore be 'losing' from an overall tax/NIC perspective."

Does this look like a budget for an immediate election or an autumn one?

Matthew Thompson, political correspondent, says: "Hi Matilde. It is certainly the consensus among Westminster watchers that this didn't have the "feel" of a May election budget. 

"Now, it is perfectly possible that we're all completely wrong – it wouldn't be the first time. But let me explain why it looks that way.

"Overall, as my colleague Ed Conway has explained, this budget was a smaller fiscal event even than the autumn statement. 

"In part that has to do with the worsening public finances. But it wasn't an elaborate giveaway. There wasn't a particular "rabbit" pulled out of a hat to wow people into voting Conservative tomorrow. 

"Instead it felt more like a slow and steady budget. There are significant retail offers, like cuts to NI and changes to child benefit, but I think the reasonable assumption would be that the government would like to wait, allow those to bed in, allow inflation to fall further, and goodness knows, maybe even squeeze in one more fiscal event for some goodies before an eventual election. 

"But then, what do I know?"

Will national insurance cut mean less money goes into the things it pays for like pensions, or will that money come from elsewhere?

Paul Kelso, business correspondent, says:  "The chancellor has spent the last month trying to balance the political demand for some sort of mass-market tax cut with the fiscal reality of an economy in recession and public services in crisis. The aim is to try and put a few more pounds in your pocket, so you will be better disposed to the Conservatives come the election, while not cutting the things you care about. Pension are high on that list and the 'triple-lock' was confirmed in the autumn statement. 

"The NI cut announced today is balanced by tax increases for business and the wealthy, including an extension of the oil and gas windfall levy, and changes to the 'non dom' status under which largely foreign millionaires – including at one stage the prime minister's wife - could live here and enjoy all the benefits of the state without paying tax on their overseas earnings."

Michael Khalil:

Will I be better off at the end of each month in terms of money after this budget? Is this budget designed to capture votes before an election or will it make real difference to me?

Greg Marsh, CEO of Nous.co, says:  "One of the chancellor's key announcements in his spring budget was a 2p cut to national insurance. 

"For a typical earner on £30,000 p/a this will mean they pay £349 less in tax in the next year. 

"For someone earning £60,000 they'll pay £754 less this year.

"However, what this doesn't take into account is the impact of stealth taxes, which are costing a worker on £30,000 around £253 this year alone.

"Stealth tax rises occur when the government freezes tax thresholds instead of increasing them in line with inflation, and they mean that more people are dragged into paying tax at a higher rate. 

"In short - while the government is decreasing some taxes, it's increasing others. 

"Many workers, particularly those on the lowest incomes, are going to be worse off overall.

"It's also crucial to consider the impact of the last two years of rising prices.

"Households have seen their bills rocket, and the cut to national insurance won't be enough to make up for that."

My wife and I are both over 70 and survive on the state pension. The news of 2p off national insurance is nice for those able to work. Meanwhile, pensioners are still paying income tax on the state pension, which in my opinion should be tax free. What help was there for us in this budget?

Robert Salter, associate director at financial advisers Blick Rothenberg, says: "The reality is that this budget was very much focused on employees and the self-employed rather than the wider income tax paying population.  

"As you say, those who live on their pensions (or investment or letting income generally) are not liable to national insurance contributions and will therefore receive no benefit from the 2% cut that Jeremy Hunt has announced in the budget. 

"It is also true to say that with the personal tax allowance frozen at £12,570 a year and this level presently expected to last until at least April 2027, an increasing number of pensioners - including those who only receive some type of state pension (eg, basic state pension, SERPs or State 2nd Pension or some combination thereof) - will potentially start needing to register for self-assessment tax returns to report and pay tax on their 'excess' pension income.  

"As such, an increase in the personal allowance would have provided pensioners (and low earners generally) with real help."    

Pete Jack C:

Does the budget today mean the public finances will be in a better or worse shape when Labour inevitably takes over?

Matthew Thompson, political correspondent, says: "Thanks Pete. So the answer to this question very much depends on your definition of 'worse shape'. Certainly the Conservatives' answer would be: 'Much better because our tax changes will get more people back into work and boost growth.'

"However, a good barometer on politically contentious debates around the public finances is the highly esteemed Institute for Fiscal Studies. 

"In a pre-budget report, they warned that the precarious state of the economy meant that tax cuts would probably not be a very good idea. Jeremy Hunt's own 'fiscal rule' is to have debt falling as a percentage of GDP in five years' time. He is set to meet that, but only barely. And even then, based only on plans to unfreeze fuel duty that nobody thinks will happen, and on cuts to public spending that nobody thinks are deliverable.

"On that basis, it is hard to see that the current plans will leave us in a fabulous position - but that may be more of an argument for scrapping the nonsense fiscal rules than anything else.

"Oh, and don't think I'm going to let you get away with calling Labour's win 'inevitable'... stranger things have happened in British politics!"

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  1. London: Historical Pub Walking Tour

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  2. Private London Pub History & Brewery Tour

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  3. Historic London Pub Crawl

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  4. City Walk: London's Historic Pubs Walk, London, England

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COMMENTS

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    The pubs we'd be visiting all have a story to tell, and most have links to the Great Fire of London in 1666. City of London pubs also wouldn't be the only sights we'd see. We'd not only get a few pints of beer, but a London history tour along the way. St. Paul's Cathedral was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1967.

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    Historic London Pub Tour. Explore London's history with a drink in hand on this historic London pub tour as you visit four of the most historic and best pubs in London. On this fun London pub tour you'll step inside centuries-old pubs and ale houses frequented by the King's and Queen's of England and London's most historical and influential ...

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    Every Wed, Fri & Sat from £ 25 per Person. Historical Pub Walking Tour. Book Now. Our London pub tour takes you to some of the most historic pubs and watering holes in the city. It's a great way to get a feel for one of Britain's most famous cultural pastimes. You'll get to visit London's most famous pubs & ale houses on a guided ...

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    Visit four traditional London pubs in London Bridge, the City of London, Fleet Street, and Holborn. Discover what a real London pub looks like on a visit to an alehouse in Blackfriars. Sit down in a pub once frequented by Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle. Small-group tour with a maximum of 14 people ensures a more personalized experience.

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    Schedule: Wednesdays. Start Time: 4:00pm (16:00) Tour Language: English. Duration: 2.5 - 3 Hours. Join us on the City of London pub tour to see the most; iconic, historic, and unusual pubs in London. You will get to experience London like a true local visiting some of London's best traditional pubs and hidden gems with an entertaining local guide.

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    Drink in centuries of London history on a beer-fueled walking tour of the capital's traditional pubs. Follow in the footsteps of literary icons like Charles Dickens and Dylan Thomas as you seek out famous drinking dens and hear stories of Victorian gin palaces, haunted beer cellars and legendary bar brawls. Cap it off by enjoying a complimentary half-pint of beer as you mingle with the locals.

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    Drink London /£25pp. start. 2pm St.Paul's Underground (Exit 2) View map. departs. Mon-Sun. Our London pub tour is a gentle 2 mile amble through some of London's ancient streets, enjoying fine views, quirky history and a drink or two along the way…. Check availabilityBuy as a gift. Tour Highlights. Historic pubs….

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    With over 3000 pubs in London, we handpick the best of the bunch for a leisurely stroll through the heart of London's liquid history. Believing small really is beautiful we maximize our group sizes to just 14 clients, helping us to explore the road less travelled and share some of London's quirkier history along the way.

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    Discover the historical pubs of London on a private walking tour along the infamous 'street of shame.' Your guide tailors the stops to your group, choosing from about 30 pubs and gin distilleries along the route. Stop for a drink at four or five famous pubs and get recommendations from your guide for drinks. Finish near Covent Garden where you can dine in a haunted centuries-old pub.

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    Meet your guide and small group in Central London. Admire such attractions as St. Paul's Cathedral and a one-time Shakespearian playhouse while walking toward your first stop. Order a pint (own expense) in Blackfriars, one of London's oldest pubs, frequented by many members of London's banking industry who work nearby.

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    LPE, East London, March 2021. The London Pub Explorer is an urban explorer documenting the changes to the culture and landscape of London's public houses. Offering walking tours to traditional inner-London pubs for the public and private groups to understand and witness the history and way of life of the honest boozer.

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    Historic Pub Tour of London highlights . Four pubs - the tour calls at four historic pubs, some dating back more than 400 years. Expert guide - your guide will regale you with tales and anecdotes of each pub's history, as well as the influential figures who frequented them.

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    We took the Strawberry Tours walking tour of London pubs with Ian and had a wonderful experience. Starting around 4 pm, it was a fun way to do "happy hour" with a diverse group of people. Our guide, Ian, was quite knowledgeable about the history and character of each of the 4 pubs we visited in the Covent Garden area of London.

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    Historic Pub Tours. Click the link above for more information. London has been home to some of the greatest musicians, artists, actors and criminals in history, from the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix to Karl Marx, George Orwell and Shakespeare. Come visit the same venues, pubs and areas that they all frequented, partied and played.

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    2 August 2020. Experience a Historical Pub Walking Tour of London on this afternoon pub crawl. Accompany your guide on a fun and educational tour in and around the city, where you'll visit at least four historic pubs and taste different brews (own expense). Pop into centuries-old ale houses, see literary haunts favoured by writers like ...

  17. Historic London Pubs Tour 1

    To sum it up, the Historic London Pubs Tour 1 - The Pub Crawl offers a captivating and immersive experience for those looking to explore the rich history and vibrant pub culture of London. With knowledgeable guides, hidden gems to discover, and the chance to enjoy drinks in historic locations, this tour provides a unique perspective of the city.

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    Guide Name: London's Historic Pubs Walk. Guide Location: England » London (See other walking tours in London) Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing) # of Attractions: 10. Tour Duration: 3 Hour (s) Travel Distance: 5.6 Km or 3.5 Miles. Author: Svetlana. Sight (s) Featured in This Guide:

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    Walking tours of London's fascinating history, led by an accredited guide. Discover London's ancient and medieval past with Historic London Tours. Book now! ... London's Best Pubs; On This Day in History; Gallery & Video; Contact +44 (0) 7783 401 129. Historic London Tours

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    Visitors on the self-guided pub tour in London can explore a selection of 10 ancient pubs, each with its own unique history and ambiance, as they wander through the heart of the city. For history enthusiasts, there are a few standout pubs that offer a glimpse into London's past. ... Research the best pubs in London for history enthusiasts ...

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    Easy Guide: Best London History Tours. #1 PICK. Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London's Fiery History. 5 out of 5 stars, 110+ reviews. Book Here! #2 PICK. Natural History Museum London - Private Guided Museum Tour. 5 out of 5 stars, 79+ reviews. Book Here!

  22. London: Historic Pubs Traditional Food Walking Tour

    As an added bonus, the tour begins in a 500-year-old pub that has a fascinating connection to Queen Elizabeth. It's a wonderful opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich history of London's pubs. Tour Cancellation Policy

  23. 10 Best and Most Historic English Pubs In London in 2024

    This North London pub has an equally famous basement club called The Underworld. I'd say, pick the Worlds End to socialise over a beer and the Underworld for rock gigs but don't expect your conversation to be heard in either. Address: 174 Camden High St. 2.

  24. Ask a question or make a comment

    Read the Money blog for all the latest consumer news - with insight into what today's budget means for your pocket. Watch and follow our live Q&A from 3.30pm - and submit a question below.