Private Historic London Pub Tour: Oldest Pubs & Hidden Stories
London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore Pub where Elizabeth I used to dance
- Drink in the same pub where Charles Dickens used to drink
- Have a pint at the most well-known pub for journalists since 1667
- See the last surviving Victorian gin palace in London
- Discover extravagant religious-themed pub
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Private tour experience
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Duration 2 hours
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Professional Tour Guide
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Explore historic pubs
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Wheelchair accessible
Experience the magic of London's historic pubs on this private tour! Drink and explore as you visit the very pubs that iconic figures like Elizabeth I and Charles Dickens used to frequent. Start your journey at The Lamb, a Victorian-style pub where Dickens himself would unwind. Then, continue to the Crown Tavern, a tavern with a fascinating history that includes visits from Lenin and Stalin. Next, discover the hidden gem of Ye Olde Mitre, known as the most famous pub for journalists since 1667. Explore the unique Blackfriars Bridge pub with its religious-themed art nouveau interior. Finally, visit The Seven Stars, a historic pub that has survived the Great Fire of London. With each pub offering its own story, this tour is a captivating way to experience the city's rich history and enjoy a pint along the way.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Adults only
Featured Reviews
Discover London's historic pubs on a private tour, visiting iconic venues where royalty and literary legends once gathered.
Included
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OtherProfessional Tour Guide
Excluded
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GratuitiesGratuities
Meeting Point
In front of the Charles Dickens Museum
48-49 Doughty St, London WC1N 2LX , United Kingdom
End Point
London , United Kingdom
What to expect
You will start your tour from Victorian-style interior pub, where Charles Dickens used to drink. English Heritage describes the pub as “an exceptional piece of Victoriana”.
10 minutes
Continue your journey towards the tavern where Lenin used to drink before revolutionary matters took him to Russia. It is thought that he may even have conferred with Stalin on site. More recently it was the setting for a scene from Notes on a Scandal, starring Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett. There you will try a good pint of ale.
10 minutes
Afterwards, you will get to one of the most difficult to find of all the pubs. It’s unashamedly traditional (no TVs), and long may that continue. The previous clientele is rumoured to have included Elizabeth I (one story goes that she danced around a cherry tree that is still there). your guide will take to the most famous pub for journalists since 1667. Countless literary grandees and journalists – from Samuel Johnson and Dickens to the Fleet Street hacks of the 20th century – have occupied a nook or cranny in its labyrinthine interior. You will try a pint in the pub where beer cellars are former cells of the prison.
10 minutes
Blackfriars Bridge
You will see the weird pub with the extravagance of its religious-themed art nouveau interior.
10 minutes
One of the few places in the area to survive the Great Fire of London, the tiny Seven Stars pub now has more than four centuries of history behind it. Located just behind the Royal Courts of Justice, it is a natural stomping ground for the pinstripes of the legal profession.
10 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Service animals allowed -
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Start at the Charles Dickens Museum. -
Try the ale at the Crown Tavern.
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Visit Ye Olde Mitre for history.
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Check out Blackfriars Bridge's decor.
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Explore nearby Royal Courts of Justice.
More About this Experience
Introduction
London Magical Pubs: drink and explore! (Private tour) offers a captivating journey through London's historic pubs, immersing you in a world of literature, politics, and old traditions. This unique tour takes you to pubs that have witnessed the likes of Elizabeth I and Charles Dickens, allowing you to step back in time and experience the historical and cultural significance of these iconic establishments.What to expect?
During this 120-minute tour, you can expect to explore five enchanting pubs, each with its own intriguing story and atmosphere. Sip on delicious pints of ale while your knowledgeable guide unravels the rich history surrounding these esteemed establishments. Along the way, you'll visit The Lamb, where Charles Dickens found inspiration, and encounter the Crown Tavern, where Lenin once drank. Discover the secrets of Ye Olde Mitre, a pub with connections to Elizabeth I and beloved by literary giants, and marvel at the extraordinary religious-themed interior of a hidden pub near Blackfriars Bridge. Finally, experience the charming ambiance of The Seven Stars, a pub steeped in over four centuries of history.Who is this for?
This tour is a delightful adventure for history enthusiasts, literature lovers, and those with a taste for unique experiences. Whether you're a local resident eager to uncover hidden gems in your city or a traveler looking to delve into London's rich cultural heritage, this private tour is designed for anyone seeking a captivating and immersive exploration of London's magical pubs.Why book this?
London Magical Pubs: drink and explore! (Private tour) offers an unparalleled opportunity to journey through time alongside the literary greats and historical figures who once frequented these iconic establishments. By joining this exclusive tour, you'll gain access to hidden corners of London and experience the vibrant energy that has enchanted writers, politicians, and locals for centuries. Indulge in the authentic ambiance of these unique pubs, enjoying their charming interiors and recounting stories that have shaped London's past. This is a chance to savor pints where legends once raised their glasses and to embark on an unforgettable journey through the city's history.Good to know
Please note that this private tour lasts for 120 minutes, ensuring an immersive experience while allowing enough time to fully appreciate each pub's ambiance and stories. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you embark on this walking tour through the heart of London. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and take advantage of the opportunity to ask your expert guide any questions you may have. Join us on this magical journey, and let the spirit of London's mesmerizing pubs bring history to life before your eyes.Reviews
Customers rave about the London Magical Pubs tour, describing it as a fascinating and unforgettable experience. They note how it seamlessly blends history, literature, and pub culture, giving them a deeper understanding of London's past. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life, making the tour both educational and entertaining. Overall, visitors express immense satisfaction with the tour, appreciating the off-the-beaten-path locations and the chance to experience London in a truly unique way. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to explore the city's magical pubs and create your own lasting memories.
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