The Coach & Horses, Soho: London's Iconic Historic Pub
Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Located at 29 Greek Street in the heart of Soho, London, The Coach & Horses is a Grade II listed pub with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Famous for its association with legendary patrons like Jeffrey Bernard and its long-time landlord Norman Balon, known as 'London’s rudest landlord', this pub has been a cultural hub for writers, artists, and journalists. Since 2012, it has been London’s first fully vegetarian and vegan pub, combining heritage with a modern twist.
A brief summary to The Coach & Horses, Soho
- 29 Greek St, London, W1D 5DH, GB
- +442074375920
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the afternoon or early evening to enjoy the lively piano sing-alongs and soak in the traditional pub atmosphere.
- Explore the pub’s walls adorned with political cartoons and theatrical memorabilia that reflect its rich cultural ties.
- Try the vegetarian and vegan menu, a pioneering choice in London’s pub scene since 2012.
- Learn about the pub’s famous patrons like Jeffrey Bernard and Norman Balon through the displayed historical photos and stories.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Coach & Horses, Soho location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Coach & Horses, Soho
A Storied Past Rooted in Soho's Heart
The Coach & Horses has stood on Greek Street since the 1700s, evolving through centuries as a cornerstone of Soho's vibrant social scene. The current building dates from the 1840s, with a distinctive 1889 façade featuring unique cast-iron columns, a hallmark of Victorian pub architecture. Internally, much of the 1937 Taylor, Walker & Co. refit survives, showcasing light oak paneling, partition screens, and a long bar counter that evoke the pub’s historic charm. This architectural continuity offers visitors a tangible connection to London’s pub heritage.Norman Balon and the Legendary Clientele
Norman Balon, who began working behind the bar in 1943 and later became landlord, shaped the pub’s character for over six decades. Known as 'London’s rudest landlord', Balon cultivated an atmosphere that attracted a diverse clientele—from Soho eccentrics and artists to prominent journalists and actors. The pub was a favored haunt of Jeffrey Bernard, whose writings immortalized the Coach & Horses in British literary culture. The fortnightly lunches of Private Eye magazine's staff further cemented its reputation as a hub for sharp wit and political satire.A Cultural Hub for Artists and Writers
The Coach & Horses has long been a gathering place for creative minds including Peter O’Toole, Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, and other Soho personalities. Its walls are adorned with political cartoons, theatrical memorabilia, and artworks reflecting its close ties to London’s West End theatre and media scene. The pub’s bohemian spirit inspired plays such as 'Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell', which recreated its interior on stage, underscoring its cultural significance beyond just a drinking venue.Modern Evolution: A Vegetarian and Vegan Pioneer
In 2012, under landlord Alastair Choat, The Coach & Horses became London’s first fully vegetarian and vegan pub. This bold move aligned with Soho’s tradition of embracing ‘firsts’ and progressive ideas. The menu’s plant-based offerings complement the pub’s historic ambiance, attracting a new generation of patrons while respecting its storied past. The pub also hosts lively events, including piano sing-alongs, maintaining its role as a convivial social space.Architectural and Historical Significance
The pub is Grade II listed, recognized for its outstanding historic interior and architectural features. The 1889 exterior remodel by Cannon Brewery introduced the striking cast-iron columns, while the 1937 interior refit by Taylor, Walker & Co. preserved a classic pub atmosphere rarely altered in modern times. This blend of Victorian and early 20th-century design elements makes it a unique heritage site within London’s bustling Soho district.The Enduring Spirit of Soho’s Iconic Pub
The Coach & Horses continues to embody the eclectic and rebellious spirit of Soho, welcoming a diverse mix of patrons from all walks of life. Its legacy as a meeting place for artists, writers, and free spirits endures, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic slice of London’s cultural and social history. Whether you come for the rich history, the vegetarian fare, or the lively atmosphere, the pub offers a quintessential Soho experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Historic Seven Dials
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Denmark St
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Agatha Christie memorial
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Chinatown Gate
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Leicester Square
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1 Soho Place
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Mercer Walk
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Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
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Mr Bean Statue
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Slingsby Place
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Mary Poppins Statue
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Cecil Court
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Prince Edward Theatre
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Palace Theatre
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Bar Soho
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London Pub Crawl
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Shaftesbury Ave
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Curzon Soho
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Discover independent cinema culture in the heart of Soho with stylish screenings, cozy cafés, and a vibrant social scene at Curzon Soho.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
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Ronnie Scott's
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Club49Soho
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Charing Cross Rd
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Foyles
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House of Spells
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Phoenix Arts Club
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Henry Pordes Books Ltd
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Essential places to dine
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
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Gauthier Soho
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Hoppers Soho
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Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Meet Fresh
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New Loon Fung Restaurant
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Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
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A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Noble Rot Soho
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A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Quo Vadis
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Evelyn's Table
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Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
J Sheekey
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Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Inamo
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Blacklock Soho
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Bantof
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutik
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Goldsmith Vintage
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JW Anderson London Soho
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Unique Britain
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St Martin's Courtyard
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Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Machine-A
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Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
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M&M'S London
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Glassworks London - Soho
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Henson's Bar and Social
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Ku Bar
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Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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Covent Garden Social Club
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The Escapologist Bar
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Prelude by Oriole
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The Nellie Dean
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The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
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Basement Sate
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Capannina Club
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The Ivy Club
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Sophisticats Soho
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Versity Camp Nightclub
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Zoo Bar & Club
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The Penthouse London
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The Box Soho
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Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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The Roxy
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St Moritz Club
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Luxe Club
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Tiger Tiger London
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Sunset night club
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Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly