Old Shades
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Tucked on Whitehall near Trafalgar Square, the Old Shades is a Grade II listed pub from 1898 offering classic British ales, hearty pub grub like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and a warm, characterful interior. Perfect for a pint or meal amid Westminster's buzz, with extended hours into the evening.
A brief summary to Old Shades
- 37 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2BX, GB
- +442078398577
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-11:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Opt for the Sunday roast if visiting weekends—generous portions of pork belly or beef with all the trimmings.
- Download the Young's On Tap app for seamless table ordering and to skip bar queues during busy times.
- Seek out the cask ales; the rotating selection offers unique British brews not found elsewhere.
- Book ahead for groups, especially near peak lunch and dinner hours in this popular spot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
Old Shades location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Old Shades
Westminster's Historic Gem
The Old Shades stands proudly on Whitehall, a Grade II listed building erected in 1898 that captures the essence of traditional London pub culture. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Westminster, just moments from Trafalgar Square, this pub has served generations with its timeless charm and inviting atmosphere. Dark wood paneling, vintage decor, and cozy nooks create a space that feels both intimate and lively, drawing in locals and visitors alike for respite from the city's hustle.Cask Ales and Pub Classics
Renowned for its selection of quality British cask ales, the Old Shades pours a rotating lineup of unique brews alongside premium spirits and world wines. The menu celebrates pub favorites: golden fish and chips with dedicated preparation options, succulent Sunday roasts featuring pork belly or beef, hearty pies filled with chicken and ham, and burgers on fresh buns. Light bites cater to casual stops, while desserts like sticky toffee pudding round out satisfying meals.Atmosphere of Timeless Hospitality
Step inside to the hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, and the rich aroma of roasting meats wafting from the kitchen. The characterful bar buzzes during peak hours, while the dining area offers space for lingering over plates. With roots stretching back over a century, the pub embodies London's enduring love for communal drinking and dining, fostering a sense of belonging in every corner.Seasonal Specials and Daily Rhythms
Weekdays see steady crowds from noon through late evening, with Thursday to Saturday extending to 11:30 PM and Sundays wrapping by 9:30 PM. Signature roasts shine on weekends, drawing those seeking traditional British fare. The pub's central position makes it an effortless pause after exploring nearby landmarks, blending convenience with authentic flavor.Enduring Legacy on Whitehall
Since its construction, the Old Shades has witnessed Westminster's evolution while remaining a steadfast anchor. Its Grade II status preserves architectural details like ornate facades visible from the street, inviting passersby to discover the heritage within. This enduring spot continues to pour pints and plate meals with the same dedication that has defined it for more than 125 years.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
16-18 Whitehall
0.0 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Old Admiralty Building
0.1 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Admiralty Arch
0.1 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Eleanor Cross
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Dover House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Guards Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.3 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grand Building
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A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.2 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
Horse Guards Parade
0.2 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.2 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
London by Night Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
Canada House
0.2 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Banqueting House
0.2 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.2 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Charing Cross
0.2 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.3 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
Embankment Pl
0.3 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
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Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.2 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.2 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
J Sheekey
0.5 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.5 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Rules
0.6 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Clos Maggiore
0.6 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.6 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Chez Antoinette
0.7 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.7 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.5 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Unique Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Floral Street
0.6 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Lillywhites
0.6 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
The Moomin Shop London
0.7 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.0 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.1 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.4 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Blind Spot London
0.4 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.5 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.5 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Upstairs At Rules
0.5 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.5 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Mrs Riot
0.6 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Tiger Tiger London
0.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
0.6 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.6 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Scotch of St James
0.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Proud Late
0.7 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Sophisticats Soho
0.8 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.8 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly