Pub crawls in London offer a unique opportunity to discover another layer of this famous capital city. They are a great way of connecting with other visitors and exploring venues beloved by locals rather than just tourists.

Get into the party mood as you stroll through the illuminated streets after dark, stopping at pumping bars along the way. There’s no better way to spend a night out in London.

This is your guide to pub crawls, one of the most fun options for nightlife in London.

What are the best pub crawls in London?

Small group London pub crawls

Pub crawls in London all follow a similar format. You’ll meet your local guide at the first venue on the schedule, before heading inside to get the party started.

Here, you will meet your fellow tour participants and share your first drinks together.

Once you’ve had your fill at the first place, it’s time to venture out into the streets of London and check out more buzzing bars. Your guide will know all the best spots so you can be sure you’re in good hands.

During the evening you’ll visit around five different pubs and bars, sampling beverages of your choice at each establishment. You’ll be provided with a welcome shot, after which you can purchase other drinks at a discounted price.

You’ll get to know a hidden side of London that only comes alive after dark. This is a fun tour for partygoers looking for a memorable night out in convivial company.

These experiences will have up to 50 participants, and the minimum age is 18 years.

Which places are visited on a London bar tour?

It’s true that the main focus of London bar tours is the drink, but you’ll experience so much more during your excursion. As you walk between venues, you’ll discover some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Most pub tours take place in central London. This means you’ll pass by famous sights as well as a few lesser-known gems that are particularly atmospheric at dusk. Feel free to ask your guide more about the areas you visit.

The two main districts covered during London pub crawls are Camden and the West End.

Camden

By day, Camden is a great place to while away a sunny afternoon. You can browse the famous Camden Market, stroll along the canal or enjoy a drink in a beer garden.

Yet it’s when night falls that this trendy neighborhood truly springs into action.

Camden is a creative district in the north of the city, and this theme is at the heart of the bars and pubs in the area.

Live music spills out into the streets, with jazz joints and indie clubs stealing the show. Rooftop cocktail bars and open mic nights are all part of the fun in this happening hub.

West End

As you stroll around the West End in search of the next pint or cocktail, you’ll pass through some of London’s most famous areas.

This is a popular destination for many daytime London walking tours, but the place takes on a different personality at night.

Soho is one of the best spots in the city for an evening out, with a huge array of bars, clubs and world-class restaurants.

Meanwhile, the Leicester Square vibe is electric at this time of day, with the bright lights of the casinos and entertainment venues drawing you in. You’ll also pass by Piccadilly Circus, which will be ablaze with neon signs and video displays.

The West End is also where you’ll find the main city theaters, with shows like Mamma Mia and The Lion King being highly recommended. Why not book one of them for a different evening during your stay?

How much do pub crawls in London cost?

Pub crawls in London are a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy a night out on the town.

As well as receiving free shots at each venue, you’ll be offered discounts on any other drinks you wish to purchase.

Prices for London pub tours start at £20 per participant for a 4.5-hour guided excursion. Remember to factor in additional drinking expenses, and a tip for your guide if you feel like they’ve given you a great time.

What is included in a bar tour?

Most London bar tours include a free shot at every place you stop, plus discounts on additional drinks that you buy. You will have a host to guide you through the evening and take you to all the best pubs.

Free entry to the establishments included on the schedule is provided.

Some operators also offer complimentary photos of your experience so you don’t need to worry about taking a camera. Cloakroom use is not included so you will need to pay for this separately if you wish to store coats or bags.

Where do pub crawls in London start?

Start points for bar crawls in London vary depending on which part of the city you’ll be exploring. Most tours begin outside one of the pubs included on the itinerary so you can kick off your experience straight away.

Popular meeting locations include Belushi’s in Camden and Rumba on Shaftsbury Avenue in Soho. The tour will finish in a convenient location near public transport, so you can easily find your way back to your hotel.

How long is the experience?

Pub crawls in London can last between 3 and 5 hours depending on the provider. No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be visiting several of the best watering holes in the city.

If you’re having a great time, then you can always stay on after the excursion has ended. There’s nowhere better to party into the small hours than here in the heart of London.

When is the best time for a pub tour in London?

Pub tours in London usually take place in the evening, as this is when the city bars come into their own. Most tours start around 7:30 PM, giving you time for an early dinner before you depart.

You may wish to schedule this experience toward the end of your trip. This way you’ll be able to have a guilt-free lie-in the next day without having to get up for sightseeing.

Top tips

Pub crawls in London are popular so make sure you book in advance to avoid missing out. Buying tickets online means you can compare prices on TourScanner and bag the best deals.
You will be walking a fair distance during the tour so remember to wear comfortable shoes.
Sportwear, sandals and flip-flops are not permitted, and it’s best to come in smart casual attire.
Photo ID may be required so take this with you – passports and driver’s licenses are both acceptable. The legal drinking age in the UK is 18 years.
It can be wet in London so carry an umbrella if it looks like rain.

Pub crawls in London: Tickets