The Great East London Pub Crawl!

If you’re heading to London and want to experience its legendary nightlife beyond the usual tourist spots, the Great East London Pub Crawl offers a lively, authentic taste of Shoreditch. Priced at around $34.45 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this tour takes you through a carefully curated selection of 12 of Shoreditch’s top pubs and bars. From craft beer havens to stylish cocktail bars, the tour promises a fun-filled evening mingling with both locals and visitors.

What we love about this experience is how it showcases Shoreditch’s diverse bar scene—you’ll visit traditional pubs with a modern twist, quirky themed venues, and lively spots with live music. The guide’s insider knowledge enriches the experience, helping you understand the area’s culture and vibe. Plus, the opportunity to meet other like-minded revelers adds a genuine social element.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the pub crawl starts in a less touristy area — Old Street — which some travelers might find a bit gritty or less picturesque compared to more iconic London locations like Westminster or Covent Garden. If you’re after a more polished, historic setting, this might not be your ideal route. Still, for those craving an authentic local experience, it hits the mark.

This tour suits nightlife lovers, young travelers, or anyone curious about London’s hipster side. If you enjoy exploring neighborhoods on foot, sampling different drinks, and chatting with a knowledgeable guide, this pub crawl could become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Shoreditch Vibe: Experience the neighborhood beyond tourist traps, with a focus on local pubs and bars.
• Diverse Venues: From traditional boozers to stylish cocktail bars and even ping-pong venues, there’s something for all.
• Guide Quality: Knowledgeable guides like Ollie make a significant difference, sharing insights and keeping the pace lively.
• Moderate Price: At just over $34, it offers a cost-effective way to sample many of Shoreditch’s best drinking spots.
• Duration & Group Size: About 2 hours with a maximum of 20 travelers, making it a manageable and social experience.
• Potential Drawback: The starting location might feel a bit gritty or less scenic than other parts of London.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary: What’s on the Agenda?

Stop 1: The Craft Beer Co. Old Street
Kicking off at this vibrant spot, you’ll find a solid selection of beers in a relaxed setting. The vibe here is both modern and laid-back, perfect for warming up your palate. The focus on craft beer suggests a lively, beer-loving crowd, and it’s a great way to ease into the evening.

Stop 2: The Angel
A classic East End pub, the Angel offers a traditional atmosphere with its red-brick façade. Inside, you’ll find large-screen sports and a pool table, making it a lively, no-frills spot that locals love. It’s a great place to soak in some genuine pub culture.

Stop 3: Three Crowns
This airy pub features whitewashed walls and wood panelling, giving it a bright, inviting feel. They serve seasonal British fare and craft beers—ideal for those wanting a quick snack along with their drinks. It’s a spot that balances comfort with a bit of style.

Stop 4: Bounce Old Street
Here’s where the tour gets playful — Bounce isn’t just a pub; it’s a ping-pong venue with a fun, upbeat atmosphere. You can get a quick game in if you’re feeling competitive, though note that admission isn’t included in the tour price. It’s perfect for adding a quirky twist to your night.

Stop 5: Old Fountain
A classic freehouse with a rotating cask ale selection, this pub offers a traditional vibe and a lovely roof terrace for when the weather’s decent. It’s a relaxed place to take a breather and enjoy some quality British pints.

Stop 6: The Old Blue Last
Refurbished but still rooted in East End tradition, this pub doubles as a live music venue upstairs. It attracts a trendy crowd, making it a great place to soak up Shoreditch’s youthful energy.

Stop 7: Old Street Records
This lively spot features live bands regularly, along with pizza and cocktails. It’s a great mix of music, drinks, and casual dining, ideal for those wanting a vibrant atmosphere.

Stop 8: Golden Bee
A stylish, mirror-ceilinged DJ bar, the Golden Bee is known for its colorful lighting and rooftop terrace. Its lengthy cocktail menu means you’ll find something to suit all tastes, making it a perfect spot for cocktail aficionados.

Stop 9: Callooh Callay Bar
With its Lewis Carroll-inspired interior and innovative cocktails, this low-lit bar offers a whimsical experience. It’s a hit with those looking for creative drinks and a unique ambiance.

Stop 10: The Ten Bells
An iconic pub with a storied past, The Ten Bells serves beer, wine, and cocktails over its three floors. Its historical charm makes it a favorite for those wanting a taste of classic London pub culture.

Stop 11: The Eagle
This Victorian pub, famous from a rhyme, offers a courtyard garden and a weekly quiz. It combines history with a lively social scene, perfect for relaxing before the final stop.

Stop 12: 222 Shoreditch High St
Ending at this airy brewpub, you’ll find a selection of craft beers and Chicago-style eats, including pizzas and subs. It’s a satisfying way to wrap up the evening with a hearty, casual meal.

The Experience: What’s It Really Like?

The tour starts promptly at 6:00 pm on Old Street, an area that’s lively but might be a bit rough around the edges, especially if you’re used to more polished neighborhoods. The group size is capped at 20, which balances a lively social atmosphere with enough space for everyone to mingle comfortably.

The guides—with Ollie being a shining example—are knowledgeable and personable, providing context about each venue and the area’s history. One reviewer described Ollie as “great,” noting her familiarity with the pubs and the area, which enhanced the experience significantly.

During the 2-hour crawl, you’ll visit each spot for about 10 minutes. This pacing keeps things moving but also allows some flexibility if you want to linger longer at a particular bar. Do note that admission to venues like Bounce is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want to play ping-pong or try special drinks.

What travelers have appreciated most are the variety of venues and the friendly, informal vibe. As one reviewer put it, “It was an awesome experience,” thanks to a “top-notch guide” and a good mix of places. Another noted that the tour provided “a good taste of different places,” highlighting the value in visiting a broad spectrum of Shoreditch’s bar scene in just a couple of hours.

However, some mention that the starting area can seem a bit “dirty” or less appealing, which might give first impressions a slightly rough edge. Also, since the tour is in the evening, the lighting and atmosphere are darker, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with lively, slightly gritty environments.

Price and Value

At about $34.45 per person, the tour offers a reasonable amount of value for those eager to explore East London’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each stop. While drinks are not included, the experience encompasses a broad range of venues, giving you a good sense of Shoreditch’s diverse bar scene.

If you’re a social traveler who enjoys meeting new people and discovering local hangouts, this tour offers an excellent introduction. For those wanting a curated, guided experience rather than wandering alone, it’s a smart choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl is best suited for adventurous, sociable travelers interested in experiencing authentic East London nightlife. It’s ideal for those who like a laid-back, informal atmosphere and are curious about a neighborhood known for its creative and eclectic spirit.

If you value guided insights and want to avoid the hassle of choosing great spots on your own, this is a practical way to do it. Keep in mind, if you prefer more historic or tourist-centric neighborhoods, Shoreditch’s gritty charm may not be your first choice.

Final Thoughts

The Great East London Pub Crawl offers a lively, varied glimpse into Shoreditch’s famous nightlife scene. It’s a fun, social way to explore the neighborhood’s pubs, bars, and music venues, especially with a guide who knows the area well.

While it might not be the most polished or scenic route in London, it captures the essence of East London’s youthful, creative spirit. The tour’s flexibility, variety, and affordability make it a solid pick for travelers who want to experience local pub culture without the hassle of navigating alone.

If you’re looking for an evening of good drinks, lively conversation, and a taste of London’s coolest neighborhood, this pub crawl could become a memorable part of your trip — especially if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers and exploring at night.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but remember to bring your ID if you plan to drink alcohol, as most venues will require proof of legal drinking age.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, with about 10 minutes at each of the 12 stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially since the tour is often booked 52 days ahead. You’ll receive a mobile ticket for easy access.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You should budget extra if you want to purchase beverages at each venue.

What if the tour gets canceled?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour may be canceled due to low numbers or weather, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point at Old Street is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual attire are best since you’ll be walking between stops and standing in bars.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely; you can still enjoy the atmosphere, chat with guides and fellow travelers, and explore the neighborhood. Just inform the guide if you prefer non-alcoholic options.

Whether you’re in London for a weekend or a longer stay, this pub crawl can add a lively, authentic flavor to your trip. Just remember to pace yourself, bring your ID, and enjoy the unique charm of Shoreditch’s nightlife scene.