London’s reputation as a city of pubs and lively nightlife is well-earned, thanks to a mix of centuries-old taverns, iconic bars, and modern craft breweries. Whether you’re after a walking tour through historic pubs or a nighttime pub crawl in trendy neighborhoods like Camden or Shoreditch, London offers an array of experiences that suit every tippler’s taste. We especially love the Pub Crawl of Central London for its balance of lively bar-hopping and social atmosphere—plus, the free shots and skip-the-line entry make it great value. For beer lovers, the Bermondsey Beer Mile tour stands out with its tasting stops at top breweries, while the London Bike Tour combines sightseeing with street art and a relaxed cycle route.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best drinking tours in London, from guided pub walks to private tasting experiences, so you can choose the perfect way to sip your way through the capital. Prepare your pint glass and read on.
1. Pub Crawl of Central London
At number 1, the Pub Crawl of Central London is a standout for its energetic vibe and excellent value. For about $35, you get skip-the-line entry to some of London’s most popular bars and nightclubs, plus free shots and drink discounts all night. The tour lasts from 2 to 5 hours depending on your start time and includes visits to lively venues starting at The Munster Tavern. Guests frequently praise the friendly hosts and the group atmosphere—perfect if you want to meet people and party into the early morning. The professional photographer on hand ensures you’ll have snaps of your night to remember.
Bottom Line: A lively, budget-friendly introduction to London’s nightlife, ideal for solo travelers, couples, or those keen to experience multiple bars without the hassle of planning.
2. London Bike Tour: Landmarks, Secret Gems, Pub Stop & Street Art
On the London Bike Tour, you’ll pedal past notable landmarks and explore hidden corners of the city on a relaxed 3.5-hour ride. This tour includes use of a classic English bike, a guide leading you through quieter streets, and even a street art stop featuring Banksy-style graffiti. Unique to this tour is the opportunity to try your hand at graffiti with spray paint, making it a creative way to combine sightseeing with hands-on art. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide, Edward, and the balance of city highlights with offbeat finds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who enjoy combining cultural sights with a bit of art and street cred, with small-group attention and flexible departures.
3. Royal Historic Pubs Walking Guided Tour in London
This Royal Historic Pubs Tour takes you on a 2-3 hour walk through central London’s most storied taverns. It’s ideal for history buffs who love a good pint and some regal tales—think stories about royals, politicians, and celebrities linked to each pub. The tour visits four pubs, starting at St. James’s Palace, and offers a chance to buy drinks along the way. Small groups ensure a personalized experience, with guides sharing insider gossip and historic anecdotes. Guests have enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the chance to feel like a local in these centuries-old establishments.
Bottom Line: For those interested in London’s royal connections and classic boozers, this tour offers a memorable and intimate pub experience.
4. Private Group: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
For a more tailored experience, the Private Group: Historical Pub Walking Tour is a fantastic choice. Starting at £130 per person, it’s a longer, more curated journey through historic pubs, covering landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and passing by old alehouses linked to legendary London figures. The tour includes visits to several top pubs and distilleries, with plenty of time to purchase drinks. Its private format makes it perfect for groups seeking a personalized itinerary with a knowledgeable guide. Guests frequently comment on how the guide shares fascinating stories and makes each pub visit special.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting a private, flexible exploration of London’s historic pub scene with a mixture of sightseeing and tasting.
5. Historic Pub Walking Tour of London
This Historic Pub Tour is a budget-friendly 4-hour walk that takes you through some of London’s oldest and most iconic pubs. The tour emphasizes history and architecture, stopping at venues frequented by Dickens and Cromwell. Each pub visit includes a chance to enjoy a drink, and the small group size keeps the experience personal. Reviewers mention that it’s a good value, with plenty of pub recommendations to explore later. The walking pace allows you to take in the atmosphere while learning about London’s drinking traditions.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a comprehensive look at London’s pub heritage on a budget, with plenty of tips for the rest of your trip.
6. London Pub Crawl
The London Pub Crawl in Camden is a lively 4 to 5-hour experience that combines the city’s best nightlife with a social scene. Meeting at Simmons Bar near Piccadilly Circus, you’ll hop between bars and pubs, enjoying discounted drinks, free shots, and fast-track entry. The guide is also a photographer, capturing your fun night out. Guests love how well-organized the tour is and the vibrant atmosphere of Camden’s eclectic venues. It’s perfect for those who want a longer, energetic night with a mix of local flair and tourist-friendly venues.
Bottom Line: An energetic way to experience London’s pub scene with a fun crowd and plenty of drinks, ideal for night owls.
7. Camden Pub Crawl in London
This Camden Pub Crawl extends over about 7 hours, exploring the famously vibrant Camden neighborhood. The tour features free shots, discounted drinks, and visits to an array of venues—from rock-metal pubs to cocktail bars and converted stables. The guide, Liz, has rave reviews for her friendly, organized approach. Guests enjoy the mix of venues and the chance to meet locals and travelers alike. The tour is suited for those ready for a full night of partying in one of London’s most colorful districts.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re looking for an all-night adventure in Camden’s iconic nightlife scene.
8. The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl
If edgy, underground nightlife is your thing, the Shoreditch Pub Crawl offers a 4.5-hour tour of London’s coolest East End venues. It begins at 333 Old St with an hour in a themed bar, followed by visits to trendy clubs and secret spots. Free skip-the-line entry, free shots, and drink discounts make this tour a bargain. Guests love the lively atmosphere and the chance to explore Shoreditch’s alternative scene. The tour’s focus on underground venues makes it suitable for those seeking something beyond the typical pub crawl.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls wanting to explore Shoreditch’s cutting-edge bars and dance clubs with a friendly group.
9. London Beer Tour With Secret Food Tours
This beer-focused tour combines craft beer tasting with a walk through Bermondsey and South Bank, lasting about 3 hours. It visits several breweries and pubs, with tastings included. The guide shares insights into London’s brewing history and the city’s lively beer scene. Guests appreciate the detailed explanations and variety of brews, from traditional ales to modern craft beers. It’s perfect for beer lovers eager to sample regional brews and learn how they’re made, all while exploring a lively part of London.
Bottom Line: A great choice for craft beer enthusiasts who want a relaxed, tasting-rich experience with expert insights.
10. A craft beer tasting tour of the Bermondsey Beer Mile
Topping our list for beer aficionados is the Bermondsey Beer Mile Tour, a 3 to 4-hour crawl through one of London’s most dynamic brewing districts. Visiting five breweries, you’ll get half pints of different beers at each stop—such as Anspach & Hobday and The Kernel Brewery. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour emphasizes beer tasting, local brewing history, and discovering new favorites. Reviewers highlight the guide’s expertise and the quality of the beers sampled, making this a top pick for dedicated beer fans.
Bottom Line: A must-do for those wanting to explore London’s craft beer scene in depth, with plenty of tastings and storytelling.
11. The Great British Pub Walking Tour: London
This 2.5-hour tour explores Belgravia’s historic pubs, often overlooked by travelers. It’s perfect for history and architecture buffs who want a relaxed walk with small-group intimacy. The guide shares stories about the pubs’ connections to London’s literary and royal scenes, including visits to venues once frequented by Charles Dickens. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide Jack and the authentic atmosphere of the pubs. It’s a well-priced option for a shorter, more laid-back pub exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you prefer a slower pace, historic stories, and authentic pub interiors.
12. Private Tour of London’s Historic Pubs
For a completely personalized experience, the Private Tour of London’s Historic Pubs offers undivided attention from a dedicated guide. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll visit four historic pubs, passing landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral. The guide shares stories about London’s beer heritage and helps you taste local brews. Reviewers consistently mention the guide’s expertise and the tailored approach. This tour is especially suitable for groups wanting an exclusive, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Best for private groups seeking a flexible, in-depth exploration of London’s pub history with expert guidance.
13. Devour London Historical Pub Tour: Traditional British Food & Ales
This 3.5-hour tour combines historic pub visits with traditional British food and ale, starting at Ye Olde Mitre and ending with classic pub bites like scotch eggs and pork pies. It’s ideal for foodies interested in pairing history with hearty eats. Guests appreciate the stories behind each pub and the light bites included, making it a satisfying way to explore London’s culinary side. The small group size enhances the experience, and the guide’s local knowledge shines.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a hearty, flavorful dive into London’s pub culture with a culinary twist.
14. The Haunted Pubs of Old London: Small Group Tour
For a spooky twist, this Haunted Pubs Tour visits pubs with ghost stories and legends, led by a historian who’s been local since childhood. Over 3 hours, you’ll hear chilling tales about murders, the Black Death, and ghosts haunting the old buildings. Stops include The Sutton Arms and the Charterhouse. Reviewers love the mix of history, spooky stories, and the intimate atmosphere. It’s a fun way to combine London’s darker tales with its pub scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and ghost-story fans who want a memorable, slightly eerie pub experience.
15. Historic London Pub Tour
Rounding out the list, the Historic London Pub Tour offers a quick 1 hour 45-minute walk through iconic pubs like The Lamb & Flag. It’s suitable for those short on time but wanting to sample classic British pubs and hear lively stories. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide George and the fun atmosphere. It’s a good quick fix for a taste of London’s pub culture without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A brief but authentic introduction to London’s historic pubs, perfect for travelers with limited time.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in London
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest focus. If you want a lively night of partying, the Pub Crawl of Central London or Camden Pub Crawl are hard to beat. For craft beer lovers, the Bermondsey Beer Mile and Beer Tour with Secret Food Tours offer detailed tastings and insights. Those interested in history and architecture might prefer the Historic Pub Walking Tour or the Royal Historic Pubs Tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak seasons. Think about what kind of experience suits your style — whether it’s a relaxed walk, a private tasting, or an energetic pub crawl. Many tours include skip-the-line entry and drinks, so look carefully at what’s included to get the best value.
Final Thoughts
London’s drinking scene is as rich as its history, offering everything from historic taverns to modern microbreweries and underground clubs. For a fun and social introduction, the Pub Crawl of Central London hits the mark with its lively atmosphere and good value. Beer enthusiasts should not miss the Bermondsey Beer Mile or the craft beer tour, which showcase London’s dynamic brewing scene. If you prefer a quieter, historical experience, the Royal Historic Pubs or London Pub Walk provide insight into the city’s past along with a pint.
No matter your style, booking your preferred tour in advance guarantees a memorable way to enjoy London’s iconic pub culture. Cheers!