The Princess Louise - High Holborn - Pub Reviews

The Princess Louise is a historic pub in central London (208 High Holborn, WC1V 7EP) known for its remarkable late-19th-century interior and authentic old-world charm. This Grade II* listed Victorian watering hole – built in 1872 with a spectacular 1891 interior – exudes period character while serving the needs of today’s pub-goers. Owned and operated by Samuel Smith’s Brewery, it’s one of the few pubs in the UK that has retained its original “snob screens” and multi-room layout, giving patrons a rare glimpse into Victorian pub life. The Princess Louise has long been a favourite for history enthusiasts, local office workers, and tourists alike, drawn by its stunning décor, affordable pints, and hearty food. The pub holds a solid customer rating (around 4.3★/5), reflecting a positive reputation for atmosphere, heritage, and service. Opening hours are 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM on Sundays, making it a convenient stop for lunch, after-work drinks, or an evening out.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Princess Louise offers a cosy, no-frills setting that puts its historic atmosphere front and centre. Don’t expect modern pub games or high-tech distractions here – in fact, you won’t find pool tables, dart boards, or big-screen sports broadcasts at all. The pub deliberately eschews TVs and loud music in favour of conversation and an ambiance reminiscent of Victorian times. This is in line with Samuel Smith’s ethos of maintaining pubs as “havens from the digital world,” free from electronic noise and focused on socialising the old-fashioned way. Patrons come to enjoy the architectural splendour and quiet buzz of chatter rather than darts tournaments or football matches.

As is common in central London, there is no on-site parking available – the Princess Louise sits along bustling High Holborn with only street parking (limited and not advised) nearby. Most visitors arrive by foot or public transport (more on that later). The pub also doesn’t host typical weekly events like quiz nights or live music sessions; the historic interior is the main attraction rather than any entertainment add-ons. One unique feature, however, is an upstairs function room that can be hired for private gatherings and is also used as additional seating, especially during lunch and dinner service. This upstairs area is simpler in décor compared to the lavish ground floor, but it provides extra space when the downstairs gets crowded. For those needing a breath of fresh air, there isn’t a dedicated beer garden, but there are occasionally a few benches or standing spots just outside the pub – perfect for a quick pint on a pleasant day (and handy for patrons with dogs, since indoors is not dog-friendly). Overall, the Princess Louise sticks to a traditional pub formula: good beer, conversation, and a historic setting take precedence over modern entertainment, making it a refreshing change if you’re looking to unwind without digital distractions.

Food on Offer

The menu at The Princess Louise centres around hearty, traditional British pub fare, executed in a straightforward yet satisfying way. This isn’t a gastropub with avant-garde cuisine, but rather a place where classic comfort foods shine. Bangers and mash (sausages with mashed potatoes and gravy) and steak-and-ale pie are staples here and frequently earn praise from visitors for hitting the spot after a pint or two. A particular standout often mentioned by regulars is the Guinness pie – a rich, savoury pie packed with tender meat simmered in Guinness stout, topped with a flaky golden crust. It’s the kind of pub dish that warms you up on a damp London day and showcases what traditional British cooking is about. Portions tend to be generous, and the style is unpretentious home-style cooking.

Vegetarians and lighter eaters will find a few options as well, though the selection leans more toward comforting classics than health-focused fare. On weekdays, lunchgoers can grab sandwiches or a ploughman’s platter if they want something light. An interesting offering from the Princess Louise is its house-made cordials – old-fashioned fruit cordials that the pub mixes with sparkling water to create refreshing non-alcoholic drinks. Flavours can vary (elderflower cordial is a common traditional choice in British pubs), and these provide a nice alternative for those not drinking alcohol. It’s a nod to Victorian temperance drinks and adds to the historic charm (plus, they’re quite refreshing!).

Keep in mind that the food service has specific hours. Generally, the kitchen operates at lunchtime and in the early evening on weekdays (for example, roughly 12:00–2:30 PM and 6:00–8:30 PM Monday–Thursday, with a shorter lunch service on Friday, and limited or no food service on weekends). This means if you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, you might find the menu somewhat limited or the kitchen closed after lunch. The focus on core pub classics means the menu doesn’t overwhelm with choices, but what’s on offer is well-executed. Sunday roasts are not a regular fixture here, unlike some other pubs – if you’re visiting on a Sunday, you’ll likely find the standard menu rather than a special roast menu. That said, the dependable quality of the fish and chips, pies, and sausages keeps both tourists and locals satisfied. Many patrons report that the food is exactly what you’d hope for in a traditional pub: tasty, filling, and reasonably priced for central London. Don’t expect haute cuisine, but do expect to leave full and happy. And if you have a sweet tooth, you might check if they have any classic British desserts on the board (sticky toffee pudding, when available, would be a delight to end a meal with). In summary, The Princess Louise’s food offering complements its old-fashioned atmosphere – it’s all about comfort and tradition on the plate, providing the perfect accompaniment to a pint of ale.

Beers on Tap

As a Samuel Smith’s Brewery pub, The Princess Louise exclusively serves the brewery’s own range of beers – an aspect that both distinguishes the pub and delights beer enthusiasts looking for a truly authentic pint. You won’t find big-name brands like Guinness or Carlsberg here; instead, you’ll be choosing from a line-up of traditional Yorkshire brews and specialty concoctions from Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery in Tadcaster. The flagship beer – and the lone cask ale usually on hand – is Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery Bitter, a classic English bitter drawn from the hand-pump in the time-honoured way. This ale, often simply called “OBB,” is beloved for its malty, slightly fruity character and is served in the Princess Louise’s own dimpled pint mugs at a proper cellar temperature. For many, enjoying a pint of Old Brewery Bitter in such a historic setting is a must-do experience.

Beyond the bitter, the pub offers a variety of Samuel Smith’s draught and bottled beers. On tap you can expect an Organic Lager (a clean, crisp lager – formerly known as Ayingerbräu before the rebranding – now often just called Sam Smith’s Pure Brew Lager or Taddy Lager depending on strength) and perhaps Alpine Lager (a lighter 2.8% ABV brew), catering to those who prefer something pale and refreshing. Stouts and porters are also part of the line-up: you might find Samuel Smith’s Extra Stout or the famous Oatmeal Stout available in bottles, offering rich, roasty flavours. There’s also typically an Organic Wheat Beer and occasionally a Cider (Samuel Smith’s Organic Cider) on offer for variety. One fun quirk of the brewery’s range is their fruit beers: these are bottled Belgian-style fruit ales (like cherry, raspberry, strawberry, or apricot) that are sweet, tart, and surprisingly potent. They make for a great dessert beer or just a tasty treat – and yes, you can order them and have the bartender pop the bottle for you to enjoy at your table.

The commitment to traditional brewing methods by Samuel Smith’s adds an authentic touch to every pint. Their beers are generally vegan (except for the stout and one or two others) and brewed with classic techniques; for example, the Old Brewery Bitter is still fermented in stone Yorkshire squares, giving it a distinctive character. While the beer selection is limited to Sam Smith’s own products, it’s by no means narrow – within that portfolio you have a bit of everything: ales, lagers, stouts, wheat beer, fruit beer, cider, etc. Part of the fun for international visitors is trying beers they might not see elsewhere (one American reviewer was thrilled to sample brews like the Organic Wheat and the Extra Stout, which aren’t available in the States). The pub serves each beer in the appropriate glassware, and you’ll find that prices are very reasonable compared to other London pubs (more on that next). One thing to note: as is typical for Sam Smith’s pubs, you won’t find any modern craft IPAs or guest beers rotating on tap – it’s all the brewery’s heritage line-up. So if you’re a craft beer hunter looking for the latest hazy IPA, this isn’t the spot for that. However, if you appreciate a well-kept pint of traditional ale or lager in an incredible setting, the Princess Louise will not disappoint. Every sip here comes with a side of history, and many would argue it simply makes the beer taste better.

Price Range & Value

By central London standards, The Princess Louise offers exceptional value for money – in keeping with Samuel Smith’s reputation for affordable pints. The general price range is ££, roughly £10–£20 per person for a meal with a drink, which is quite moderate given the location and the unique environment. A pint of ale or lager here typically costs notably less than at neighbouring pubs; regulars often comment that the beers are some of the cheapest in Holborn, if not all of London’s Zone 1. For example, a pint of Old Brewery Bitter or the lager might be around the £3–£4 mark, which is refreshingly low compared to the £5–£6+ you’d pay for similar pours elsewhere in the city (keep in mind prices can change, but Sam Smith’s has historically kept prices low). Food portions are generous and priced in the low teens for most mains – you might pay ~£12 for that steak & ale pie with sides, or under £10 for a hearty plate of bangers and mash. Given the quality and the portion size, most visitors feel they get their money’s worth and then some. There’s a kind of egalitarian philosophy at work: Samuel Smith’s pubs aim to be accessible to all, not charging a premium just because they could for the central location or tourist footfall.

In terms of overall value, customers consistently praise the Princess Louise for delivering an “experience worth every penny.” You’re not just buying a drink or a meal, but a little time travel to the Victorian era – and that’s included at no extra charge. Unlike some theme pubs or ultra-trendy bars that inflate prices for the atmosphere, here you get honest prices for honest pints in an extraordinary setting. That combination of reasonable cost and high-quality surroundings leads many to call this pub a “bargain” and a must-visit.

Do note a couple of practical points: The Princess Louise is cash-only for payments (as of the latest updates). This may surprise some, since many pubs and bars in London now prefer cashless transactions, but at Sam Smith’s establishments tradition wins out. Be sure to bring some cash (and make sure your pound notes are the current polymer ones, as one amused patron found out when an old paper £20 note was refused). There’s an ATM nearby on High Holborn if you’re caught short, but best to plan ahead to avoid a scramble. Also, tipping isn’t generally expected for bar service in UK pubs – you can if you feel the service was excellent, but there’s no obligation. There’s no table service in the main bar area, so you’ll order at the bar and pay on the spot (which makes the cash-only aspect easier to manage). If you dine upstairs, you might pay after your meal, but again, cash is king here.

In summary, the Princess Louise sits in that sweet spot of value: you get to enjoy a world-class historic interior, decent hearty food, and well-kept beers at prices that won’t break the bank. It’s an increasingly rare find in London to have such an affordable pint in such sumptuous surroundings. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or just someone who appreciates a great deal, this pub will leave you very satisfied that your pounds were well spent.

Customer Service

Walk into the Princess Louise and you’ll typically be greeted (at least during quieter times) with a warm, no-nonsense welcome from behind the bar. The pub’s staff have a reputation for being efficient and polite, keeping the operation running smoothly even when there’s a crowd pressed up to those gorgeous mahogany bar counters. Because the pub often gets busy (especially during the after-work rush and early evenings), the bartenders here have mastered the art of quick service. Regulars note that despite the sometimes packed conditions, the team manages to pull pints promptly and accurately, and they handle the Victorian-era layout (with its multiple little “snug” areas and a central island bar) adeptly, so nobody waits too long in any section. If you arrive at a peak time – say 6 PM on a Friday – you might have a short wait to catch a bartender’s eye, but the general consensus is that the waits are much shorter than you’d expect given the throngs that can descend on this place. Many patrons acknowledge that even when they had to queue, “the unique setting more than compensates” for any delay, as you can admire the decor while standing in line for your drink.

In terms of attitude, the staff at the Princess Louise are often described as professional and to-the-point, with a friendly edge. Don’t expect the overly chummy, chat-for-five-minutes style you might get in a quieter country pub – in central London pubs the service tends to be a bit brisk. But if you strike up a conversation during a lull, you’ll find the bartenders are quite proud of their pub’s heritage and can share a tidbit or two about the interior (“Yes, the snob screens do move!” or “Make sure you see the gents’ toilets, they’re marble!”). They’re also usually happy to recommend a beer to suit your taste, especially if you’re new to Sam Smith’s brews. Since the pub doesn’t play music or have TVs blaring, the staff often help set the tone with a bit of light conversation or a friendly comment, contributing to the overall welcoming vibe. International visitors often report feeling comfortable here, as the staff are used to a diverse crowd and are patient if someone is unfamiliar with British pub etiquette (for example, they’ll gently remind you to order at the bar if you sit waiting at a table, since table service isn’t the norm).

One thing to keep in mind: the Princess Louise, like all Sam Smith’s pubs, does enforce certain house rules (no swearing, for instance, as part of the brewery’s “Victorian” conduct policy). The staff will politely (or firmly, if needed) ask rowdy customers to tone it down. Fortunately, it’s actually pretty rare to see any trouble here – perhaps the ornate surroundings inspire good behaviour. Most customers describe the atmosphere as civilised and relaxed, which the staff certainly help maintain. If you visit outside the rush hours, you might even find the service positively doting: during a quiet mid-afternoon, the bartender might walk over to collect empty glasses from your snug or check if you need anything else, a nice touch in a busy city. Overall, customer service at The Princess Louise earns high marks. It’s not service with flashy flairs or corporate polish; rather, it’s the kind of solid, friendly-but-efficient service that makes you feel both well-treated and comfortably left to enjoy your pint in peace. In an environment as unique as this pub, the staff’s ability to balance quick service with approachability goes a long way in turning first-time visitors into repeat patrons.

Events & Special Nights

The Princess Louise is not an events-driven pub – and that’s quite intentional. Unlike some London pubs that host weekly quiz nights, live music, or themed parties, this pub sticks to what it does best: providing a timeless place to drink and socialise. There are no regular quiz nights, karaoke, or DJ sets here, and you won’t see posters for upcoming band performances. The ambiance of the Princess Louise is more akin to a museum-piece pub or a classic tavern, and most customers come specifically to bask in that historic atmosphere rather than to be entertained by scheduled events.

That said, the pub isn’t devoid of life or special moments. The “event” at the Princess Louise might simply be the after-work rush, when the compartments fill with a cheerful mix of chatty office workers and tourists marvelling at the décor. The lack of TVs and music means that on certain occasions, you might overhear an impromptu sing-along or acoustic music if a merry group decides to start one – but this is by the patrons’ doing and not a programmed occurrence. Sports matches are generally not shown (Sam Smith pubs famously have no televisions), so during big games like the World Cup, you won’t find any official viewing parties here (on the contrary, those seeking a game will head elsewhere).

Seasonal festivities do touch the pub in understated ways. For example, around Christmas time, the Princess Louise often gets decked with some tasteful holiday decorations – imagine garlands and a Christmas tree amid the Victoriana, making it feel like a scene from Dickens. There’s no official carolling night, but the natural warmth of the pub makes for a festive atmosphere regardless. Similarly, the pub doesn’t host a formal New Year’s Eve party with tickets or anything, but it’s usually open for locals who want a traditional pint to ring in the new year in a low-key fashion.

In the past, historically speaking, the Princess Louise did have its moments as a cultural venue – notably, it was the site of some influential folk music club meetings in the 1950s and 60s, during the British folk revival. Folk legends like Ewan MacColl held court in an upstairs room, giving the pub a slice of musical history. However, today there’s no trace of that in its regular operations; it’s an interesting footnote you might read about, but not something that impacts the current vibe.

Ultimately, the appeal of The Princess Louise lies in its ambient, any-night charm rather than special events. People don’t ask “what’s on tonight at the Princess Louise?” – they go because the pub itself is the attraction. If you’re after trivia contests or a loud live band, this isn’t your spot. But if you want to experience an evening of convivial conversation in a breathtaking Victorian pub, every night here feels special in its own right. The lack of modern entertainment is a selling point for many: it means nothing detracts from soaking up the historic atmosphere and enjoying good drinks in good company.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Stepping through the doors of The Princess Louise is like walking into a Victorian time capsule. The atmosphere hits you immediately – a blend of polished wood, the gleam of etched glass, and a hum of conversation echoing beneath an ornate crimson-and-gold ceiling. The pub’s interior, splendidly preserved and restored in 2007, features an extraordinary display of Victorian craftsmanship: mosaic tile floors, carved mahogany woodwork, engraved mirrors with gilt lettering, and even Portland stone columns supporting the bar canopy. Most eye-catching of all are the famous snob screens and the layout of small compartments (snugs). Along the central island bar are a series of wooden and glass partitions creating semi-private booth areas – these are the snob screens, etched and frosted glass panes that can swing open or closed. Back in the day, they allowed more “refined” customers to drink without being seen by the hoi polloi at the bar. Today, they lend an intimate, cosy feel to each booth; you and a few friends can tuck yourselves into one of these alcoves and feel delightfully secluded, yet still part of the collective pub atmosphere. Every surface around you has details to admire: look up and you’ll notice the ceiling’s elaborate patterns and moulding, look around and each mirror and panel has Victorian motifs. Even the lamps and light fixtures have a gaslight-era charm (though they’re electric, they cast a warm, soft glow). It’s no wonder many have called this “possibly the best preserved Victorian pub interior in London” – it’s like drinking in a work of art.

Despite this rich historic decor, the Princess Louise doesn’t feel like a sterile museum – it’s very much a lively, working pub, and the vibe is usually warm and bustling. There is a gentle buzz of conversation at most hours; with no amplified music or TVs, the sound you hear is people talking, laughing, and the clink of glasses. The clientele is a real mix, which adds to the character. On a given evening, you might find after-work professionals still in their suits discussing the day’s business in one corner, a group of university students or academics (from nearby University of London colleges) debating ideas in another, and a cluster of tourists marvelling at the surroundings as they plan their next sightseeing stop. There’s also a fair share of local regulars – Holborn and Bloomsbury residents who treat the Princess Louise as their cherished local. This blend of people gives the pub an inclusive, cosmopolitan feel. Everyone seems equally enthralled by the ambiance, and a friendly conversation with strangers at the bar is not uncommon. Without blaring music, it’s easy to strike up or overhear chats about the pub’s history, or get recommendations for other historic pubs to visit. Yet, because of the multi-room layout, you can also have a private conversation within your snug if you prefer – the partitions really do buffer the sound, so each booth feels like its own little world.

The pub can get crowded, particularly at peak times. On weekday evenings, expect a brisk trade; the corridor and bar area might be standing-room only, with patrons spilling into each nook and cranny. Interestingly, the layout manages crowds well: people naturally distribute into the side corridor and snugs, rather than one huge mass by the bar. It can be a tight squeeze navigating the narrow corridors when it’s full (mind your step on the slight changes in floor level between sections), but that’s part of the experience – you really get a feel for Victorian pub life, which was often cosy and bustling just like this. If you prefer a quieter experience to absorb the surroundings, try visiting in mid-afternoon or later in the evening after the post-work rush, when things calm down. The lighting in the pub is also worth mentioning: in the daytime, sunlight filters through the patterned glass windows, casting lovely colours onto the tiles. At night, the interior is illuminated by period-style fixtures that make everything glow warmly. It’s positively atmospheric around dusk, as the interior almost seems to flicker (one almost expects to see Charles Dickens in the next booth, nursing a pint!).

When it comes to accessibility, there are some limitations due to the historic nature of the building. The ground floor pub space is mostly level, but there is a small step at the entrances and the doorways into the snug areas are narrow. This can be challenging for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. There is no elevator/lift to the upstairs seating or function room, which unfortunately means the upper floor is not wheelchair accessible. The pub does have restrooms, but notably the gents’ toilets are downstairs in the basement, reached by a twisting staircase – an adventure for those who want to see the famous marble urinals (they’re even mentioned in the official heritage listing!) but not ideal for anyone with mobility issues. The ladies’ restroom is on the ground level but also down a corridor that might be a tight fit. In recent years, efforts have been made by many pubs to add an accessible toilet; it’s worth asking staff if one is available (it might be that the upstairs has one, though it’s not clearly advertised). If accessibility is a major concern, perhaps calling ahead is advisable. For most visitors without mobility challenges, the pub is perfectly fine to navigate – just be ready for a bit of Victorian quirkiness in the layout, like narrow passages and the occasional step up or down. On the plus side, the staff are very helpful; if someone with a stroller or wheelchair comes in, they’ll often lend a hand or suggest the best route to get comfortable.

One policy to note: the pub is not dog-friendly indoors (except for assistance dogs). This is partly due to Sam Smith’s company rules and partly the tight space and food service. If you have a canine companion, you’d have to sit outside at one of the small exterior standing tables or benches (when weather permits). But given the indoor spectacle, most people come without pets to fully enjoy the interior.

All these aspects coalesce into an atmosphere that’s vibrant yet relaxed and respectful. The absence of modern distractions means people genuinely engage with the setting and with each other. Many first-time visitors are struck by a sense of “wow, they don’t make pubs like this anymore” – and indeed, they don’t. It’s a slice of history that is surprisingly accessible in the middle of a modern city. Whether you’re a history buff soaking in the details of Victorian design, a beer lover enjoying the unique environment for your pint, or just a traveller seeking an authentic London pub experience, the feel inside the Princess Louise is likely to stick with you. It’s the kind of place where the ambiance almost gives you a hug when you walk in – warm, enveloping, and richly characterful. Just be prepared: after experiencing this, you might start seeking out more of London’s historic pubs, chasing that timeless atmosphere again and again.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated on High Holborn in the Bloomsbury/Holborn area, The Princess Louise enjoys a prime location that’s both centrally located and surrounded by notable London landmarks. The pub is extremely easy to reach via public transport. Holborn Underground Station (on the Central and Piccadilly lines) is practically on its doorstep – less than a 2-minute walk. In fact, if you exit Holborn Station and stroll west along High Holborn, you’ll see the pub’s Victorian facade (with its red granite columns and big bow windows) after just a block or so. Tottenham Court Road station (with the Central and new Elizabeth Line, as well as Northern line via the new entrance) is also only about a 10-minute walk west, which is convenient if you’re coming from the Oxford Street area or riding the Elizabeth Line in. Numerous bus routes run along High Holborn, connecting to areas like the City of London, Waterloo, and the West End, making it straightforward to hop off near the pub. For reference, Covent Garden is just down Kingsway and a short walk (about 10 minutes south-west), and Russell Square in Bloomsbury is about 10 minutes north – that’s how central you are when enjoying a pint here.

One of the perks of this location is that you can easily incorporate The Princess Louise into a day of sightseeing or an evening out. Just around the corner (5-10 minutes walk north) is the British Museum – after exploring the museum’s treasures, many visitors like to relax with a pint, and this pub offers far more atmosphere than your average café or chain pub in the area. Also in Bloomsbury are institutions like the University of London and its colleges – University College London (UCL) and the London School of Economics (LSE) are nearby – which explains why you might encounter professors or students among the clientele. If you’re into history and literature, the whole Bloomsbury area is your playground, with the Charles Dickens Museum a short stroll away and the streets where authors like Virginia Woolf once walked. Meanwhile, heading south from the pub, you’ll reach Lincoln’s Inn Fields (London’s largest public square) and the Sir John Soane’s Museum (an eccentric, wonderful house-museum of the famous architect) in about 5 minutes – a highly recommended stop for culture lovers. Theatregoers will be pleased to note that you can walk to Drury Lane and the fringes of London’s Theatreland in roughly 10 minutes, making the Princess Louise a charming pre-show or post-show drinking spot if you’re catching a performance, say, at the New London Theatre or Aldwych Theatre. Covent Garden’s many shops, restaurants, and the Royal Opera House are also within easy reach, just beyond Holborn Station.

For those interested in pub history, the Princess Louise is in a bit of a “historic pub corridor.” A short walk west on High Holborn will bring you to the Cittie of Yorke, another famous historic pub with an impressive interior. A bit further, you have Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street (15–20 minutes walk), and The Lamb in Bloomsbury (10 minutes north, another Victorian pub with snob screens). In other words, you could do a mini pub crawl through time in this area.

If you need to drive or take a taxi, be aware that High Holborn is a busy thoroughfare with limited street parking. There are a couple of commercial car parks in the vicinity (for example, near Bloomsbury Square or under Lincoln’s Inn) but they can be expensive – typical of central London. Generally, it’s far easier to use the Tube or bus. Cycling is an option too: there are Santander Cycle hire docking stations near Holborn Station and on Red Lion Square, so if you’re on a rental bike, you can dock it close by. The Holborn area is quite walkable – in fact, one of the joys of visiting this pub is wandering the historic streets around it. You might take a post-pint walk through the atmospheric legal district of Gray’s Inn or towards the neon of the West End, depending on your mood.

In summary, The Princess Louise’s location is hard to beat for convenience and surrounding attractions. It sits at the nexus of academic, legal, and touristic London. Whether you’re planning a day visiting the British Museum, shopping around Covent Garden, or even need a hearty lunch between meetings in Midtown or Bloomsbury, the pub is ideally positioned. It’s both a neighbourhood local and a destination pub rolled into one. So, when mapping out your London adventures, pencilling in a stop at this pub is both easy and highly rewarding – a chance to rest your feet and recharge in a beautifully preserved slice of history, just steps from many of the city’s highlights.

Overall Impression

The Princess Louise is, in a word, extraordinary. This pub manages to deliver not only on the basics of good beer and filling food, but also on an immersive historical experience that sets it apart from virtually any other drinking establishment in London. Overall, the impression it leaves is that of a pub that truly has it all: aesthetic beauty, authentic atmosphere, and solid quality in its offerings – all at a price that feels like a bargain for what you get. If you’re a history buff or architecture enthusiast, you’ll be in heaven here, marvelling at the preserved Victorian details at every turn (don’t forget to peek at the gent’s marble urinals – a quirky highlight!). If you’re a beer lover, you’ll appreciate the unique opportunity to taste Samuel Smith’s traditional brews in their proper setting, poured perfectly and enjoyed in a pub that feels frozen in the 1890s. And if you’re simply someone seeking a memorable London pub experience, the Princess Louise will likely spoil you for other pubs – it’s that enchanting.

That’s not to say the pub is without a few quirks – but in truth, most of its “downsides” are just part of its character. The crowding during peak times, for instance, can be intense; it’s not a huge pub in terms of square footage, and its fame means it draws lots of patrons. So you might find yourself standing or cosying up to strangers in the corridor until a snug frees up. But then, making new friends in a pub is a very London thing to do, and the convivial spirit here often turns a tight squeeze into a positive memory. The cash-only policy might catch modern visitors off guard, but with a little planning (and maybe a nostalgic appreciation for the days when a pint was bought with coins and notes), it’s hardly a deal-breaker – some even find it refreshingly old-school. The lack of TVs or music might seem odd if you’re used to sports bars, but again, it’s part of what makes the Princess Louise special: an emphasis on conversation and company over noise. In fact, many people leave commenting on how nice it was to enjoy a night out without shouting over amplified sound. As for accessibility, yes, a fully modern wheelchair-accessible refurb might make life easier for some visitors, but given the strict protections on Grade II* listed interiors, the pub has to work within its constraints. It’s a compromise that most feel is worth it to preserve the historical integrity.

In weighing everything, The Princess Louise emerges as a must-visit destination on any pub lover’s list of London highlights. It’s the kind of place that appears in guidebooks, on “top 10 pubs” lists, and in the fond recollections of anyone who has lived in or visited London for any length of time. The combination of well-kept ales, genuinely interesting history, welcoming service, and a vibrant yet traditional atmosphere is incredibly hard to find these days. Many pubs boast history, or good beer, or beautiful interiors – The Princess Louise has all three in spades. After spending time here, don’t be surprised if you find yourself recommending it to others with the preface “Oh, you have to see this pub...”.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon pint marvelling at the sunlight on stained glass, or packed in on a Friday night clinking glasses with new acquaintances under the chandeliers, the Princess Louise delivers a pub experience that is both deeply nostalgic and thoroughly enjoyable. It reminds us why the pub holds such a beloved place in British culture – it’s not just about drinking, but about community, history, and ambiance. In the heart of modern London, this gilded Victorian gem continues to thrive and enchant. In conclusion, if you’re in London and appreciate history, beer, or simply a great atmosphere, The Princess Louise should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just a pub; it’s an adventure back in time that leaves a lasting impression and perhaps a longing to return for one more pint in that beautiful, bygone world.