The Pub Crawl! So named in the finest English tradition because in the old days and indeed not-so-old days, pub drinkers would stop off for a drink at as many pubs until they were crawling between venues. Whilst we won’t be this extreme, this traditional pub walk will visit some of the finest old pubs in London. Each one with a very different atmosphere and history, but all sharing a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a wonderful historic building.
From the fringes of the East End, we will visit pubs in Clerkenwell and Farringdon before visiting some truly historic pubs in Holborn and Lincoln’s Inn Fields.
Pubs we visit include:
Viaduct Tavern: Recognised as one of the best historical pubs, this pub is built on the site of a former jail and still has five of the cells visible in the basement. Better be on your best behaviour then, so drink up!
The Castle, Farringdon: This refreshingly down-to-earth Farringdon public house was once frequented by King George IV, who was tempted in by a spot of cockfighting. Happily, the only poultry you may come across here now is in the delicious food that is served up.
The Crown Tavern, Clerkenwell Green: The lounge of this pub was once a noted music hall, perhaps this is what made it Lenin’s favourite boozer. In 1905 he met with comrade Stalin here in a meeting room upstairs. Its classic interior features mean that these days it is more likely to be used in television and films, maybe you will remember where you first saw The Crown Tavern over a pint.
Ye Olde Mitre: Built in 1546, Ye Olde Mitre is famous for having a cherry tree, (now supporting the front) that Queen Elizabeth once danced around. Set in a part of London steeped in history, it’s near where William Wallace was hung, drawn, and quartered at Smithfield.
The Seven Stars: Dating from around 1602, The Seven Stars backs on to the law courts and is a favourite haunt of lawyers, Church of England music directors and choir singers. It’s a cozy little pub inside with a quirky atmosphere along with a fine selection of drinks.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: Situated near Lincoln’s Inn Fields and Holborn, this wonderful old pub proudly declares that it was rebuilt in 1667 following The Great Fire of London. Known to be the regular drinking spot of such names as Charles Dickens, Dr. Johnson, Mark Twain, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Alfred Tennyson and P.G. Wodehouse then this might be just the pub to have a wee dram in whilst concocting your next best-selling novel.
*Please note that not every pub listed is guaranteed to be open, in which case we will try and find a good alternative*
