London Pub Crawl: Tips, Routes & Best Stops

If you love hopping from bar to bar, a London pub crawl is the perfect way to see the city after dark. You get the buzz of different atmospheres, cheap drinks, and a chance to meet locals. The key is to keep it simple, safe, and fun. Below you’ll find the basics you need before you step out.

How to Plan Your Crawl

Start with a clear route. Pick an area that has lots of pubs close together – Shoreditch, Camden, Soho, and Covent Garden are the usual suspects. Use Google Maps or a pub‑crawl app to line up the spots. Aim for three to five stops; more than that can get tiring and pricey.

Set a budget. Most pubs in central London charge £4‑£7 for a pint, but happy‑hour deals can drop that to £3. Decide how much you’ll spend per stop and stick to it. Carry a mix of cash and card – some older pubs still prefer cash, while newer places accept contactless.

Pace yourself. Drink water between servings and snack on something salty – pretzels or chips work well. If you feel the buzz building, slow down or skip a stop. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the night, not to race to the last bar.

Transport matters. Plan how you’ll get home before you start. The Tube runs later on weekends, but night buses and rideshare services are reliable backups. If you’re with friends, set a meeting point in case anyone gets lost.

Safety first. Keep an eye on your drink, never leave it unattended. Trust your gut – if a place feels off, move on. Stick with people you know, and let someone outside the group know where you’re heading.

Top Pub Crawl Routes in London

Shoreditch Shuffle: Start at The Old Blue Last for live music, swing by The Crown & Shuttle for a classic ale, hit The Old Queen’s Head for craft beers, and finish at Queen of Hoxton’s rooftop for a view of the city.

Camden Crawl: Begin at The Dublin Castle for a pint and indie vibes, move to The Camden Assembly for cocktails, then hit The Hawley Arms for a gritty pub feel, and close at The World's End for a lively crowd.

Soho Sprint: Kick off at The French House for a quiet start, drift to The Blind Pig for gin, visit Bar Termini for an espresso‑martini, and end at The Escapologist for a nightcap.

Each route stays within walking distance, so you won’t waste time on transport. If you want a themed night, add a speakeasy or a whiskey bar to any of the routes – it gives the crawl a twist without extra travel.

Finally, have a backup plan. If a venue is too packed or closed, choose a nearby alternative. Apps like Untappd show real‑time crowd levels and drink specials, which can save you from dead ends.

With these tips, you’re ready to hit the streets and experience London’s pub scene the right way – relaxed, smart, and full of great drinks. Cheers to a night you’ll remember!