Legendary Historic Pubs in the UK – Famous British Taverns

Historic pubs in the UK are more than just places to grab a pint – they are living museums of British culture and history. From centuries-old coaching inns to tucked-away taverns in city alleys, these establishments have witnessed royal visits, inspired literary giants, and hosted notorious outlaws. The allure of historic pubs UK lies in their ability to transport you to another era. Each creaking floorboard and smoke-darkened beam has a story to tell, making famous British pubs an integral part of the national heritage. In this article, we explore some of the most legendary pubs across Britain – including several of the oldest pubs in the UK – highlighting their historic patrons, architectural quirks, and the tales (and ales) that make them special.

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Charles Dickens in a legendary UK pub or raising a tankard where knights and highwaymen once drank, visiting these pubs is like stepping into a time machine. From London’s literary watering holes to rustic village inns in Wales and Scotland, each pub featured below offers a unique chance to step into living history. Enjoy an engaging journey through alehouses of old – and perhaps plan your own pilgrimage to experience their timeless charm.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, London – A Literary Time Capsule on Fleet Street

One of London’s most iconic historic pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street dates back to the 16th century (rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London). Tucked away down a narrow alley, its dimly lit interior boasts oak panelling, open fireplaces, and vaulted cellars thought to belong to a 13th-century monastery. The lack of natural light and maze of gloomy rooms give it an atmosphere unchanged by time – walking inside truly feels like entering the 17th century. Plaques by the bar list the many famous figures who frequented this Grade II listed tavern.

Notable Patrons: Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is best known for its literary associations, having welcomed a who’s who of writers over the centuries. Charles Dickens was a regular and even set a scene in A Tale of Two Cities here. Other reputed patrons include satirist Oliver Goldsmith, poet Alfred Tennyson, mystery writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, humorist P. G. Wodehouse, and American author Mark Twain. Dr. Samuel Johnson lived nearby and likely visited as well. With such a roster of literary greats, it’s no surprise the pub still exudes a bookish charm – you can easily imagine Victorian scribes debating ideas over pints of ale. In fact, the pub is mentioned in works by Dickens, Stevenson, Wodehouse and more, cementing its place in literary history. There’s even an old legend about a ghost (the Midwife’s Ghost ballad of 1680) haunting the pub, adding a dash of folklore to its mystique.

Why Visit: To sip a drink in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is to drink where classics were conceived. Visitors come for the authentic Old London ambiance – think sawdust on the floor, snug little rooms, and creaky staircases. In winter, a roaring fire in the grate completes the scene. This pub is also on CAMRA’s National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors, reflecting its well-preserved character. Signature Drink: As a Samuel Smith’s pub, it serves only the brewery’s traditional ales. Be sure to try their Old Brewery Bitter, drawn from oak casks in the cellar. Paired with a hearty steak-and-kidney pie, it’s a proper Victorian lunch Dickens himself would approve of. Visiting Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese feels like joining a timeless club of patrons – a must for literature lovers and history buffs alike.

The Eagle and Child, Oxford – The Inklings’ Intellectual Pub

Oxford’s The Eagle and Child (affectionately nicknamed “The Bird and Baby”) is a historic pub renowned for its connection to a famous literary circle. Operating since the 17th century (first mentioned by name in 1684), this Grade II listed pub sits on St Giles’ in Oxford and exudes old-fashioned cosy charm with its low ceilings and narrow passages. The pub’s quirky name and sign – depicting a child carried off by an eagle – come from a local legend and the crest of the Earls of Derby. But what truly puts the Eagle and Child on the map of famous British pubs is its role as the meeting place of The Inklings writers’ group.

Notable Patrons: From the late 1930s through the 1940s, The Eagle and Child’s back room (the “Rabbit Room”) hosted informal lunchtime gatherings of some legendary literary minds. C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, along with fellow Inklings like Charles Williams and Owen Barfield, met here every week to discuss drafts and swap stories. Imagine the conversations that echoed in these walls – chapters of The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia were doubtless debated over pints. It was here in 1950 that Lewis first distributed proofs of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to his friends. The pub proudly displays memorabilia of the Inklings era, including photos and letters, allowing visitors to feel the creative spirit that once filled the snug. Earlier in its long history, the pub was owned by an Oxford college and local lore suggests it served as an inn for travelers as far back as the English Civil War, but it’s the 20th-century literary legacy that shines brightest.

Why Visit: For fans of fantasy literature, stepping into The Eagle and Child is a pilgrimage. The very same snug room where Tolkien and Lewis laughed and philosophised still exists, maintaining an intimate, book-lined atmosphere. You can sit in a corner with a pint and almost sense the pipe smoke of Tolkien’s presence. The pub is currently undergoing refurbishment to sympathetically restore it (after a closure in 2020) and plans to reopen with its historic charm intact, including a boutique hotel upstairs. Signature Drink: When it’s open, savoir a pint of real ale (the pub is known for well-kept cask ales) or a hearty stout – and toast to the fellowship of writers who found inspiration at this very spot. The Eagle and Child’s blend of scholarly heritage and genial pub comfort makes it a truly legendary UK pub where literature and leisure meet.

The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead – Haunt of Highwaymen and Poets

Perched on the edge of London’s Hampstead Heath, The Spaniards Inn is a 16th-century pub brimming with romance, intrigue, and literary lore. Built in 1585 as a tollgate inn on the old road to London, this whitewashed tavern has hardly changed in centuries. It’s named after a Spanish ambassador who supposedly lived there in James I’s time, and its Grade II listed building retains low wooden beams and a charming wood-panelled interior. Outside, a verdant beer garden provides a tranquil retreat in summer – famously, poet John Keats is said to have penned his “Ode to a Nightingale” under a tree here. With its rustic ambience and storied past, The Spaniards Inn feels delightfully removed from the bustle of modern London.

Notable Patrons: This pub’s history reads like an adventure novel. Notorious highwayman Dick Turpin is thought to have been a regular – local legend claims Turpin was born here, as his father was once the landlord. At the very least, we know 18th-century highwaymen frequented the area and likely used the inn as a lookout for stagecoaches on the Finchley Road. (Turpin’s horse, Black Bess, was even reputedly stabled here.) In 1780, during the Gordon Riots, the inn’s landlord cleverly placated an angry mob by offering free ale until authorities arrived – saving nearby Kenwood House from attack. Literary figures have also left their mark: Charles Dickens immortalised the Spaniards in The Pickwick Papers, and Bram Stoker references one of the inn’s ghost tales in Dracula. The pub’s guestbook of history includes painter Joshua Reynolds and poets Lord Byron and John Keats, all of whom enjoyed its hospitable charms. Little wonder The Spaniards Inn is celebrated as one of the capital’s most atmospheric pubs, where artists and rogues rubbed shoulders.

Why Visit: Today, The Spaniards Inn invites visitors with its timeless, cosy vibe. In winter you can warm up by a crackling fire in one of the snug nooks; in summer, the walled beer garden is perfect for al-fresco pints with a view of Hampstead Heath’s greenery. The pub’s centuries-old character has been lovingly preserved – you might even spot the old toll-house across the narrow lane, forcing traffic to slow as it did 300 years ago. Keep an ear out for ghost stories too: staff whisper about a resident spectral figure (Turpin’s ghost, perhaps, or the forlorn spirit of a Spanish mistress). Signature Drink: The Spaniards Inn usually offers well-kept cask ales – a pint of Fuller’s London Pride or a locally brewed bitter is a popular choice. In the evenings, you might opt for a glass of rich red wine or a classic gin and tonic from their historic bar. With its mix of cozy charm and colorful history, the Spaniards is undoubtedly a pub with famous patrons and a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of old London lore.

The George Inn, Southwark – London’s Last Galleried Coaching Inn

Hidden down a cobbled courtyard just off Borough High Street, The George Inn is a rare architectural gem: the only surviving galleried coaching inn in London. This Grade I listed pub dates back to the medieval period (first mentioned in the 1540s) and was rebuilt in 1677 after a fire. In its heyday, The George was a bustling inn-yard where coaches would arrive and depart, and travelers lodged overnight in the upstairs rooms. Remarkably, it still retains its glorious two-level wooden galleries overlooking the courtyard – an evocative sight that instantly transports you to 17th-century London. Owned by the National Trust since 1937 for preservation, The George Inn today is a living monument to London’s coaching age and a beloved stop for history-minded pub-goers.

Notable Patrons: Over the centuries, The George Inn has hosted countless figures, but two names stand out. William Shakespeare lived and worked in Southwark (the Globe Theatre was nearby), and it’s believed he likely visited The George or its predecessor – indeed, Elizabethan theatrical troupes performed in inns like this, using the inn yard as a stage. While Shakespeare’s visits remain the stuff of speculation, one literary giant we know for certain drank here is Charles Dickens. Dickens visited The George and mentioned it by name in his novel Little Dorrit, giving the inn a cherished place in literature. In fact, one of the indoor bars today was once the “Coffee Room” frequented by Dickens – you can still sit in the Parliament Bar or Middle Bar where he took his drink. The George’s history also brushes up against Chaucer: it stood next to the old Tabard Inn, where the pilgrims of The Canterbury Tales began their journey in 1380s (the Tabard is long gone, but a plaque nearby commemorates it). By the Victorian era, parts of The George were unfortunately demolished during railway expansion, but thankfully one wing was spared as a working pub, later protected by preservationists who recognised its unique heritage.

Why Visit: Walking into The George’s courtyard is like walking into a Tudor painting. The exterior’s timber-framed galleries decked with flower boxes are exceedingly Instagram-worthy, especially when lit up at dusk. Inside, the pub offers multiple cozy bars and a restaurant upstairs – once former sleeping quarters for coach travelers. Every nook is steeped in history: old photographs and drawings on the walls recount The George’s story. Despite its age, it’s a lively pub popular with locals and visitors alike, often buzzing with conversation and occasionally hosting ale tastings or historical talks. Signature Drink: The George is operated by a brewery (Greene King) and typically has a great range of cask ales. Many visitors opt for a pint of Greene King IPA or the house George Inn Ale if available, to enjoy in the sunshine of the courtyard. For a true London experience, grab your pint and sit out in the courtyard benches, imagining the clatter of coach wheels on cobbles. A visit to The George Inn is a journey into London’s past – it’s easy to see why Dickens and possibly Shakespeare found inspiration here, and why it remains one of the famous pubs in British culture.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, Nottingham – England’s Oldest Inn?

Carved into the sandstone cliff beneath Nottingham Castle, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem claims to be England’s oldest pub, with a legendary founding year of 1189 AD. Whether or not it can prove that exact date, there’s no doubt this Grade II listed inn is ancient and extraordinary. The pub’s quirky name comes from the idea that it was a stopping point for Crusader knights on their “trip” to the Holy Land (in old parlance, “trip” meant a stopover). Stepping inside, you immediately notice why this pub is unique – several of its rooms are actually caves hollowed from the rock, once used as the castle’s brewhouse. Winding passages connect snug, cave-like bars with low ceilings. Historical artifacts adorn the walls, and there’s even a wishing well and an old cockfighting pit on display. The atmosphere is dim, cool, and atmospheric – fitting for a pub that’s stood for over 800 years (by its own proud claim).

Notable Patrons: Given its age, the Trip (as locals call it) has accumulated many legends. It purports to have refreshed King Richard the Lionheart’s crusaders in the 12th century – whether myth or fact, the Crusader lore is part of the pub’s identity. More concretely, records show the pub operating by the 18th century under names like “The Pilgrim”. Over time, it became the favored haunt of castle soldiers, local merchants, and town officials. One long-serving Victorian landlord, George “Yorkey” Ward, is said to haunt the pub to this day – staff report playful ghostly pranks they attribute to him. In fact, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem revels in a reputation as one of the most haunted pubs in Britain. Its most famous fixture is the Cursed Galleon, a dusty model ship kept in a glass case. According to legend, every person who tried to clean it met an untimely end – so now it remains covered in centuries of dust, left untouched for fear of the curse! Tales like these, along with whispers of a lady in white roaming the caves, make a visit to the Trip equal parts historic and spooky fun.

Why Visit: Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a must-visit pub for history enthusiasts. Few pubs can match the novelty of enjoying a drink in a medieval cave tavern – you can even see sections of rock where beer was brewed for Nottingham Castle’s garrison long ago. The pub functions like a museum, with signage explaining its lore and antique items (old tankards, muskets, helmets) on display. Despite the throngs of tourists, it retains the feel of an intimate, quirky inn from yesteryear. It’s also a great starting point for exploring Nottingham’s other historical sights, sitting right at the foot of the castle. Signature Drink: Naturally, you’ll want to try a traditional English ale here. The pub serves a selection of local and national ales; one fitting choice is the “Olde Trip” Ale, a malty brew named in honor of the pub (brewed by Greene King). Otherwise, grab a pint of hearty stout or a crisp cider – beverages that have been enjoyed on this spot for generations. Take the cellar tour or join the Saturday ghost walk that departs from the Trip if you’re eager to hear all the eerie anecdotes. Visiting Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem truly feels like having a pint in Nottingham’s deepest history, complete with ghosts and all!

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, St Albans – England’s Oldest Pub Legend

In the cathedral city of St Albans lies a storied tavern often touted as the oldest pub in England. Ye Olde Fighting Cocks claims an origin as far back as AD 793, and while that exact date is debated, there’s no denying the pub’s venerable age and unique character. The building itself has an odd octagonal shape – it was originally a medieval pigeon house (dovecote) built in the 11th century, later converted into an alehouse. Over time, the structure was moved and rebuilt a short distance from St Albans Abbey (now cathedral) after the dissolution of the monasteries. Today, this Grade II listed pub sits by the River Ver, with low timber beams and cozy alcoves that exude medieval charm. Its name, “Fighting Cocks,” comes from the historic sport of cockfighting which took place here in the 19th century – the pub even has a small pit area where the cocks once sparred. The prefix “Ye Olde” was added in Victorian times to emphasize its antiquity, and locals often call it simply “The Cocks.”

Notable Patrons: With such longevity, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks has amassed many legends. One especially famous tale is that Oliver Cromwell spent a night here during the English Civil War (1640s) – local lore insists the future Lord Protector slept at the inn, and they even displayed a chair dubbed “Cromwell’s chair” as a relic. While hard evidence of Cromwell’s stay is scarce, the story adds to the pub’s mystique. The proximity to St Albans Cathedral meant it likely hosted countless pilgrims and clergymen in medieval times. Tunnels are rumoured to run between the pub’s beer cellar and the cathedral, supposedly used by monks in secret – a nod to its ecclesiastical neighbour. In more recent years, the pub has been a hub of the community and has won several pub awards for its atmosphere and beer selection. It was even listed by Guinness World Records as the oldest pub until that title category was retired due to verification issues. Authentic or not, the claim to ancient origins draws visitors from around the world.

Why Visit: Ye Olde Fighting Cocks offers a quintessential old-English pub experience. Its interior is delightfully quaint – you’ll find intimate rooms with low doorways (watch your head!), an inglenook fireplace, and centuries-old wooden furnishings. There’s a large beer garden for summer days, where you sit under willow trees by the pond of Verulamium Park, adjacent to the pub. The sense of history is palpable; staff are often happy to share the pub’s anecdotes, from ghost stories to the reason behind its unusual shape. After a stroll around St Albans’ Roman ruins or beautiful cathedral, the pub makes an ideal stop for refreshment. Signature Drink: This pub prides itself on serving excellent real ales, often from local Hertfordshire breweries. Try one of their rotating guest ales or a classic bitter – it’s said they keep a fine cellar. Enjoy your pint with a plate of fish and chips or a Sunday roast; the pub is known for its good food as well. Visiting Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is like stepping back to Saxon times (with better beer taps) – it’s a legendary UK pub that lives up to its fame and is well worth the short trip from London to experience.

The Skirrid Mountain Inn, Wales – Medieval Tavern with Ghostly Legends

Tucked in the Welsh countryside near Abergavenny, The Skirrid Mountain Inn lays claim to being Wales’ oldest pub, with roots allegedly stretching over 900 years. Documents suggest an inn on this site as early as the year 1110, though the current stone building mainly dates to the 17th century. The pub’s name comes from the nearby Skirrid Mountain, which, according to myth, cracked in two at the moment of Jesus’s crucifixion (Skirrid is sometimes called the “Holy Mountain”). This small village inn looks every bit the part of an old coaching stop: white plastered walls, dark wooden ceiling beams, and a large hearth. Yet beneath its quaint charm lies a dramatic and eerie history – one that has earned the Skirrid Inn a reputation as the most haunted pub in Wales.

Notable Patrons & Legends: The Skirrid Inn’s backstory is a heady mix of rebellion, punishment, and paranormal activity. Local legend holds that the inn served as a rallying point for supporters of the 15th-century Welsh hero Owain Glyndŵr, who led a revolt against English rule. It’s said Glyndŵr himself met his men here before riding off to battle, giving the pub a patriotic folklore status. Later, in the 1600s, an upper room of the inn was supposedly used as a courtroom by the notorious Hanging Judge George Jeffreys (though Jeffreys’ involvement is debated) – and those convicted of crimes met a grim fate. According to legend, up to 180 people were hanged from an oak beam over the staircase inside the inn, for offences ranging from sheep stealing to treason. Chillingly, the staircase still bears what are claimed to be rope marks from these executions. With such a bloody history, it’s no wonder many ghosts are said to linger. Guests and ghost-hunters report encounters with spirits of the hanged, an angry former innkeeper, and even the shade of a heartbroken woman. The Skirrid Inn has been featured on TV’s Most Haunted and attracts paranormal enthusiasts from far and wide.

Why Visit: If you love a side of supernatural with your pint, the Skirrid Inn is a must. By day, it’s actually a cosy country pub – wooden settles, a big fireplace, and friendly staff serving hearty Welsh fare (like lamb cawl stew). The rural setting is gorgeous, nestled in the Brecon Beacons National Park with views of green mountains. History lovers will appreciate knowing they’re sitting in a place that has offered hospitality (and perhaps final confession) to travellers for centuries. After dark, the atmosphere undeniably turns more atmospheric, and you might feel a slight shiver on that staircase. The pub often hosts organised ghost hunts and overnight paranormal events, for those brave enough. Signature Drink: While you’re here, try a pint of Welsh ale – breweries like Brains or Tiny Rebel are often on tap. Many visitors toast with a dram of Welsh whisky (Penderyn, for example) to steel their nerves before exploring the allegedly haunted rooms upstairs. The Skirrid Mountain Inn blends antiquity and the uncanny, making it one of the most legendary historic pubs you can experience in the UK.

The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh – Scotland’s Oldest Pub with Royal Connections

In the historic Duddingston village of Edinburgh stands The Sheep Heid Inn, widely acclaimed as Scotland’s oldest surviving pub. Tradition holds that an inn has operated on this site since 1360, which, if accurate, makes it perhaps the oldest pub in Edinburgh (and one of the oldest in Scotland). Tucked down a lane near Arthur’s Seat and Duddingston Loch, the Sheep Heid has the look of a classic country coaching inn: a rambling 18th-century building with stone walls and a cosy interior of low beams and candlelit corners. The pub’s curious name (“Sheep Head”) has a tasty origin – it refers to a local delicacy of boiled sheep’s head broth (powsowdie) once popular here. However, another story attributes the name to a rather extravagant gift: King James VI of Scotland (later James I of England) was so delighted with the hospitality here that in 1580 he presented the landlord with an ornate sheep’s head snuff box, encrusted with silver. That royal gift (or a 19th-century copy of it) is displayed behind the bar to this day, cementing the pub’s connection to Scottish royalty.

Notable Patrons: Over its many centuries, The Sheep Heid Inn has welcomed an impressive roster of guests. It is said that Mary, Queen of Scots herself visited, likely stopping in on her way to or from nearby Holyrood Palace. Her son King James VI definitely visited often – the inn lies along the route between his residences at Craigmillar Castle and Holyrood, and he would pause to refresh and even enjoy a game of skittles (bowling) in the yard. As mentioned, James’s gratitude for good service resulted in the famous ram’s head snuff box gift. In later years, literary greats have been associated with the pub: Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, and Sir Walter Scott were both familiar with it (Burns supposedly dined here, and Scott lived in the area as a boy). More modern visitors include Queen Elizabeth II, who reportedly had a pub lunch here in the 20th century, and even American singer Kelly Clarkson – proving the Sheep Heid’s appeal spans continents! Few pubs can boast patronage from medieval monarchs to contemporary celebrities.

Why Visit: The Sheep Heid Inn offers a delightful blend of rustic charm and unique attractions. One highlight is its vintage skittle alley – tucked behind the pub is a fully functioning bowling alley from the 19th century, one of the oldest surviving alleys in Britain. You can actually rent some skittles time and play a traditional game in the same spot James VI rolled balls centuries ago. Inside the pub, you’ll find warm tartan carpets, a snug fireplace, and walls adorned with antique portraits (perhaps of past patrons). It’s an intimate space to savoir classic Scottish pub cuisine – locals rave about the haggis, neeps & tatties and the Sunday roasts. The surrounding Duddingston village is picturesque for a stroll, and you can easily combine a trip here with a walk up Arthur’s Seat or around Holyrood Park. Signature Drink: When in Scotland, whisky is always a fitting choice – the Sheep Heid carries a good selection of Scotch whiskies. You might sip a smooth single malt after dinner. Alternatively, try a pint of local Scottish ale (Caledonian Brewery’s “Deuchars IPA” is a solid Edinburgh brew) or a refreshing cider. With its skittle alley and storied hospitality, The Sheep Heid Inn offers not just a meal or drink, but a chance to join in a tradition of merriment that has endured for six centuries.

The Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast – Victorian Splendour in Northern Ireland

Crossing over to Northern Ireland, no historic pub tour would be complete without The Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast. Often simply called “The Crown,” this pub is less ancient than others on our list but equally legendary for its architectural grandeur and cultural significance. It was established around 1849 (originally named The Railway Tavern) and then extravagantly refurbished in 1885 into the glorious gin palace we see today. Stepping inside The Crown is like stepping inside a Victorian time capsule. Every surface is lavishly decorated: the exterior is tiled with polychromatic mosaics including a gilded crown motif at the entrance, and the interior gleams with stained glass, carved mahogany woodwork, and Italian ceramic tiles from floor to ceiling. Gaslit lanterns cast a warm glow on the highly ornate ceilings and a long oak bar with an antique heated footrest for patrons. Ten wooden snugs (private booths) line one side of the bar, each with a door, etched glass windows, and old-fashioned bell-pushes to call for service. The pub’s opulence reflects the 19th-century boom in Belfast – it truly is a “jewel” of Victorian pubs, now proudly owned by the National Trust for preservation.

Notable Patrons: The Crown has been a beloved haunt for Belfast locals and visitors for over a century. It’s said that during World War II, American GIs on leave mingled with Belfast residents here under the gaslights. Over the years, the pub’s unique ambience attracted writers, artists, and even politicians. Famed poet Sir John Betjeman once described The Crown as one of the great bar-rooms of the world and was instrumental in advocating for its preservation in the 1970s. Indeed, it was thanks in part to public campaigns that The Crown was saved from potential demolition and restored – a project completed in 1981 and again in 2007, each time ensuring every stained glass window and hand-carved pillar was painstakingly conserved. The pub’s cinematic interior has appeared in films like Odd Man Out (1947) and Divorcing Jack (1998), making it something of a screen star as well. While no single historic figure is tied to the Crown’s lore, its status as a Victorian landmark means that anyone from opera singers to prime ministers might have passed through those doors over the last 140 years.

Why Visit: The Crown Liquor Saloon offers a drinking experience unlike any other – it’s part pub, part art exhibit. Visitors often spend their first few minutes just marvelling at the craftsmanship: the colourful glass lamp shades, the mosaics of clowns and fleur-de-lis, and the intricately carved wood angels that adorn the bar. For privacy or just for fun, you can tuck into one of the snug booths, slide the door closed, and ring the little bell for service like it’s 1889. Despite being a tourist highlight, the Crown is still very much a local pub too, so you’ll find a friendly mix of people. It can get busy during peak times, but that’s part of the lively Irish pub atmosphere. Signature Drink: Naturally, many come here to enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness beneath the stained glass – it feels almost ceremonial in these sumptuous surroundings. The Crown, being a Nicholson’s pub, also offers a range of ales and a good whiskey selection. An Irish whiskey neat or an Irish Coffee might be just the thing to sip as you soak in the historical vibes. Visiting the Crown is like drinking in a living museum of Victoriana – an absolute must when in Belfast, and indisputably one of the most famous pubs in the UK for its beauty alone.

The Lamb & Flag, London – Dickens’ Watering Hole with a “Bloody” Past

Tucked away in a Covent Garden alley, The Lamb & Flag is a beloved London pub that combines literary connections with a gritty history. A pub has operated on this Rose Street site since at least 1772 (with parts of the building possibly dating to the late 1600s). In the early 19th century, the Lamb & Flag earned the nickname “The Bucket of Blood” because of the brutal bare-knuckle boxing matches once held in an upstairs room. Thankfully, those rowdy days are long past, and today this small, wood-panelled pub is known for its warm atmosphere and excellent ales. It’s Grade II listed and retains Victorian-era fixtures, including a historic bar counter and some original wood partitions inside. The walls are adorned with portraits and newspaper clippings, hinting at the pub’s colorful story. Despite its location in the heart of tourist London, the Lamb & Flag feels like a hidden gem – it still carries the air of an 19th-century tavern where artists, writers, and working folk converged over a pint.

Notable Patrons: The Lamb & Flag’s most famous regular was none other than Charles Dickens in the mid-19th century. Dickens, who lived and worked in London, was known to frequent many pubs, and he favoured this one enough that it’s mentioned in local lore as a spot where he drank (perhaps finding inspiration for his novels). Another intriguing episode involves John Dryden, the Restoration-era poet. In 1679, Dryden was reportedly ambushed in the alley just outside (Rose Alley) by hired thugs, supposedly over a satirical poem he wrote offending a noblewoman. A plaque on the pub commemorates this attack. At the time of Dryden’s scuffle, an earlier tavern stood here (then called the Coopers Arms), but the tale adds to the Lamb & Flag’s legend. Given its longevity, plenty of other notables have likely raised a glass here too. It sits near theatre-land, so one imagines actors and playwrights popping in after shows over the centuries. By the 1970s and beyond, the pub became a cherished haunt for journalists and market traders from Covent Garden Market, adding to its rich tapestry of patrons.

Why Visit: The Lamb & Flag offers an authentic slice of London pub life with a side of history. Its intimate, wooden interior can get pleasantly crowded, especially after work when pints start flowing. In summer, people spill out into the alley with their drinks (a very London scene). It’s a great place to stand elbow-to-elbow with locals and feel the city’s pub culture. Check out the upstairs room – once the scene of those bare-knuckle fights – now a relaxed seating area where you can imagine the raucous past. The pub’s location is ideal for sightseeing breaks: it’s just around the corner from Covent Garden’s shops and theatres, yet it’s easy to miss unless you know where to look. Signature Drink: Being a Fuller’s pub as of the last decade, the Lamb & Flag serves Fuller’s ales on tap. A quintessential choice is London Pride, a smooth amber ale that’s a local favourite. They often have Fuller’s ESB or guest ales as well. Pair your pint with a packet of crisps or some classic pub grub, and you’ve got a perfect respite from the city’s bustle. With its blend of literary pedigree and “Bucket of Blood” daring-do, the Lamb & Flag captures the resilient spirit of London’s historic pubs.

Raising a Glass to Living History

From oak-beamed taverns on cobbled streets to lavish Victorian gin palaces, these historic pubs across the UK offer far more than just a drink – they offer an immersive journey into the past. Each pub we explored has its own character and saga: you can debate philosophy where Oxford scholars once sat, or nurse a stout under the same roof as highwaymen and poets from centuries ago. Visiting Britain’s legendary pubs is truly like stepping into living history, where the ales come with a side of storytelling. The architectural details, the memorabilia on the walls, even the very names of these pubs are conversation starters that connect you to bygone eras.

As you travel the UK, be sure to seek out these famous British pubs and others like them. Whether it’s enjoying the convivial buzz of a London literary haunt or the haunting quiet of a Welsh mountainside inn, you’ll be participating in traditions that have been kept alive for generations. Each pint pulled and each tale told keeps the history going. So here’s a toast to the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheeses, Spaniards Inns, Trips to Jerusalem and all their counterparts – long may their stories be shared and their taps kept flowing!

Have you visited any of these historic pubs in the UK, or do you have a favourite old pub with a story to tell? We’d love to hear your experiences. Share your own tales of legendary UK pubs – whether it’s an encounter with a pub ghost, a memorable meal under an antique timber roof, or simply the feeling of connection you got from drinking in the same spot as a famous figure. By swapping stories and celebrating these establishments, we ensure that the heritage and charm of Britain’s pubs continue to thrive. Cheers!