London is well known for its rain, parks, tea, the Queen and, of course, pubs. So, here it is, our guide of London’s best pubs with history.
The Star Tavern
Pictures courtesy of ©The Star Tavern
This central pub in Belgravia neighbourhood was built in early Nineteen century amongst its habitual customers we could find actor Peter O’Toole, Diana Dors (English actress considered to be the British Marilyn Monroe) or Alexander Korda (Hungarian born British director and producer). However, the Star Tavern is best known for being the meeting point were the Great Train robbers planned their attack on the Mail Service train in 1963.Considered to be one of the biggest robberies in UK history, over £2.6 million were stolen (£48 million currently) from a train heading from Glasgow to London.
You find it at 6, Belgrave Mews West, SW1X 8HT
The Grenadier
Picture courtesy of ©The Grenadier
Built in 1720, it was originally used as a socializing place for military officers, but one hundred years later, it became a pub and it is rumoured that the Duke of Wellington (Commander of the united forces that defeated Napoleon in the Battle of Waterloo) used to pop in every once in a while. It is also rumoured, that the pub is haunted by a soldier’s ghost that got murdered after a cards game. More recently, popular singer Madonna, who loves traditional English pubs, used The Granadier for a post-concert party.
You find it at 18 Wilton Row, S1WX 7NR
The French House
Picture courtesy of ©The French House
This pub is considered to be an absolute Soho institution. It was used during the Second World War as a meeting place for members of the French Resistance, including General Charles De Gaulle. It then became a bohemian pub with clients including journalist Jeffrey Bernard and Suggs from the band Madness. However, beware because the pub is television free and has a ban on mobile phones.
You find it at 49 Dean St., W1D 5BG
The Lamb
Picture courtesy of ©Youngs
One of the favourite’s drinking places for author Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist or Moby Dick. This Victorian style pub is said to be an “exceptional piece of Victorian era”. Located near Piccadilly Circus, it is a great place to stop for a pint of lager or cider, and continue with your London visit.
You find it besides the Charles Dickens Museum at 92 Lamb Street, WC1N 3LZ
Ye Olde Mitre Tavern
Picture courtesy of ©Ye Olde Mitre Tavern
This is the oldest pub in our list and, maybe it is the hardest to find. According to one story, a man worked just around the corner for six years without finding it. The current pub was built in 1772. However, there had been a pub on the site since the mid 1500’s. It is even rumoured that amongst its clientele, you could find Queen Elizabeth I, the last of the Tudor dynasty and ruler of England when they defeated the Spanish Invincible Armada. This pub was originally a tavern for the servants of the Palace of Bishops of Ely, a Church of England diocese. It keeps its traditional touch and there’s no TV on site.
You find it at Ely Court, Hatton Garden, Holborn, EC1N 6SJ
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