Increasing numbers of London beer aficionados are turning to artisan brewers’s “golden fuel”. Younger, cooler crowds are rediscovering IPAs, Stouts and Casks. London Real Ale pubs and microbreweries’ rocketing popularity follows a precise developing new trend among drinkers weary of mass-marked produced beers. Britain's ever-growing number of brew pubs suggest that the revolution is only at the beginning. Here our list of recommended London craft beer pubs.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 22nd October 2024
One of the best craft beer bars in West London, this unique offering over on Ealing Broadway is fronting an extensive line-up of delicious brews from the local area and further afield. Grab a pint fresh out the tap wall, and pair it with one of their excellent sourdough pizzas.
With a mighty impressive line-up of craft beer that changes regularly and showcases an exclusive selection from some of London's coolest breweries, WGT is one of the finest places to head for a decent pint in south-east London. Take your pick between a pint from all kinds of interesting breweries, with a vinyl-only music policy on the speakers and a spacious suntrap of a beer garden out back.
The Victoria has been setting the standard for live music rooms in East London for decades, but there's much more of a focus on the pubby part of the venue these days. The atmosphere is serene and familiar, and the pub serves a sturdy range of locally brewed craft beers.
To pair your craft beer with classic burgers and wings, look no further than the 'luxury junk food' at Wolfpack Fulham. Revel in the rock 'n' roll ambience while you drink and dine, or catch plenty of sports on the screens.
Well-known in Kensal Rise for its ample selection of craft beer, The Whippet Inn is a top choice for after-work drinks and catch-up pints. To go with your beverages, choose from a delicious selection of gastropub fare.
Located in Crystal Palace, Westow Tap is ideal for a few craft brews, alongside some comfort eats. While sipping a pint, crack on with their Crafty Buns menu - the quarter pounder with fries pairs perfectly with beer.
Spit & Sawdust is a contemporary boozer located in the heart of Borough. Boasting twenty dedicated craft lines, this place has a regularly revolving list of beers, with favourites from the likes of Wylam Brewery, Arbor and Brighton Bier amongst many more.
Conspiring with your friends this weekend to drinks some of the best craft beers in London? You should, especially when you get to see Heist Bank's offering. Not only toting draught and bottles, join Heist Bank for the cool interiors and the wood-fired pizzas.
If there's two things that 40ft Brewery are passionate about, it's beer and sustainability. This Dalston gem brews tasty tipples on site from only the finest, carefully sourced local ingredients, using traditional methods to blend distinctive craft beers to suit everyone's taste. And in the summer months? Soak up the sun with a pint in their gorgeous garden.
Offering escape from the constant London bustle, the Smugglers Tavern on Warren Street is a charming pub that's stocked with the best craft beer in town. The talented chefs in the kitchen are on hand to deliver fresh gastro dishes and brunch classics, all made using the freshest ingredients available. Better still, the bar showcases the finest bottles and brews that over 20 different British breweries have to offer.
If you're looking for one of the best German beer collections in London, this Bermondsey bar is just the place. Inspired by the bierkellers of Bavaria, this fun spot promises traditional brews, freshly made street food and whole host of fun activities.
Friendship Adventure Brewery and Taproom is a fabulous shout if you're looking to enjoy a pint or have a quick little venture out with your doggie. The Brixton-based pub boasts beer brewed on-site as well as a variety of cider and wine.
Based a stone's throw away from the Palace of Westminster, the Morpeth Arms acts as a metropolitan sanctuary, offering escape from the constantly bustling world outside. Full of regal decor and vibrant decorations, it's the food and drinks menu that really stands out. The bar showcases the very best that London's breweries have to offer, including smooth craft lagers, flavoursome real ales and dark, fiery stouts. To keep things afloat, the chefs dabbles in traditional recipes, plating up delectable catch-of-the-day treats and serving succulent cuts of seasoned meat.
Located in Fitzrovia, The Albany is a great spot for a pint of craft ale, as the pub rotates a selection of 13 different types. If you're looking for a little more to a night in central London, the venue has a secret basement bar that puts on DJ nights as well as live music.
Located on the iconic Bermondsey Beer Mile, Gosnells Bermondsey Bar is an ideal venture for hoppy pours. With both an indoor and outdoor space for those epic tastings, this is a great venue all year round. What's on offer? Over 7 meads on tap and plenty more.
At this beautiful Notting Hill pub they sell delicious, unique dishes and a brilliant range of craft beers. There are plenty of interesting events including beer discussions and a Wednesday's pub quiz with an irresistible £5 burger deal.
Mondo Brewing Company is a great place for beer junkies. With an eclectic offering ranging from lagers to IPAs, this is a perfect spot to catch up with friends while enjoying a few pints. Feeling hungry? They also have regular food trucks too.
Nestled along Drury Lane, Lowlander Grand Cafe is a heavyweight when it comes to craft beers in London. The Belgian bar houses over 200 native brews along with a selection of wines and spirits. Hungry? Try one of their famous moules dishes, served with skinny fries and ciabatta.
Tower Bridge Arms is a renowned pub taking on an American diner theme with bottle-green booths and retro pictures. Grab a burger and beer and sit back with friends at this chilled spot.
Operated by long-standing local brewing company Five Points, you can expect the freshest pints from The Pembury Tavern in Hackney. They also host tap takeovers and tasting events for true beer fans, while also providing award-winning New York-style pizzas to soak up the booze. Slices range from double pepperoni to a veggie supreme – enhanced by their dips, including the truffle aioli and 'crack sauce'.
Hidden within Coldharbour Works lies Supercute Brewhouse, the ultimate haven for beer enthusiasts. This isn't just a bar and taproom; it's a vibrant microbrewery crafting its own delicious beers just for you.
Enjoy a rotating lineup of events throughout the week, from lively quiz nights to exclusive tastings. Join us from Tuesday to Sunday for a unique experience where you can savour signature brews and support local talent.
Can't decide what type of food to chow down on? Mercato in Mayfair is the place to be for beer and booze. Fronting a wine cellar, various street eats and a superb rooftop terrace, this is definitely a must-visit for nights out with friends.
With 24 taps loaded with international and own-brewed beers, The Barrel Project is a strong choice when it comes to places to drink craft brews in London. Head over to the Bermondsey taproom and see for yourself why it's such a popular place for a pint or two.
From all the big London breweries through to beers from across the pond, Howl at the Moon is a top choice for a night out in Hoxton with its huge range of beers and friendly charm.
If you're in need of craft beer in North London, then The Westbury is a a great choice. This cool boozer is fronting contemporary interiors of exposed brick walls and artwork from local talent, alongside a gorgeous terrace to drink it on - whatever the weather.
Located in the city, Tank and Paddle have a huge range of craft ales and beers. They've partnered with local Meantime brewery, which are served directly from their tanks to ensure the freshest quality. Order a pizza or side of Mac 'n Cheese, and you've got yourself a cracking night at this bar, or one of the brand's other venues in Heddon Street and Bishopsgate.
With over 50 different home-brewed small batch craft beers on offer, Brewhouse & Kitchen is the place to visit if you fancy yourself as a bit of a beer connoisseur. An on-site micro-brewery and huge metallic vats allows their guests to sample the brewer's latest seasonal, hop-based venture. To accompany the refreshing pints, their impressive menu offers a huge array of international dishes, such as a delicious Mezze Platter and perfectly cooked Arancini Risotto Balls.
Fronting a range of beer such as Studio Pilsner, Backstage IPA, and Nightliner coffee porter, The Collab is a brilliant boozer. Alongside your pint, tuck into an array of mouthwatering burgers and wings while enjoying live DJs.
Plonked right next to the Walthamstow Wetlands, this fun and friendly taproom is the home of Exale Brewing. Serving up 10 lines of quality pints, alongside cocktails from Victory, they're treating you to more than a few bevvies as Saturday nights see DJs take to the decks.
Craving a little pub night out with the gang? If you're after delicious pints, then Beer Merchants Tap is a great place for quality craft brews from all over the map. Choose between 500 bottles and cans or opt for one of 20 different taps.
For some delicious, freshly brewed beer head to this gem in the heart of Camden. Overlooking the canal, its home to ten taps featuring on-site sips, as well as a selection of wines and spirits. Its orange interiors are eye-catching; paired with checkerboard flooring and arched ceilings it makes for a modern place to enjoy the likes of a Strawberry Lace Sour or a Hazy IPA.
Situated in East London, Hackney Church Brew Co is an excellent brewery with a cracking beer garden. They feature a list of 6 signature brews, alongside other boozy bevvies and top-notch Indian food - think goat curry, tikka masala and onion bhajis.
Some of London's best craft beer can be found at the sleek, industrial-style haunt The Bohemia. Mixing factory chic with cosy living room furnishings, it's a cool spot to wander over to enjoy some guest brews as well as its very own, made and poured onsite. Look forward to the likes of the London Particular (a delicious, light stout), the Rhapsody (a crisp lager) and more.
Take in the incredible atmosphere The Sindercombe Social has to offer with vintage records, a stunning bar area, live music, and a rotating craft beer selection to curated to impress. Get a craft beer in that hand as you sway to the beat or bite into a fried buttermilk chicken burger at this London bar.
With Laine Brewing's London head brewer Jim Wilson at the helm using IPA, ESB, RPA and Porter recipes, there will be a veritable waterfall of craft ales going down at The Four Thieves. A keg ale and Czech style pilsner are also in the pipeline for your enjoyment! If it's gin you want, gin you shall have! Growing lavender on their beer garden roof to distil into gin in their own distillery, this is seriously home-grown stuff!
If you're a lover of craft beer, then Signature Brew Blackhorse Road, and its Haggerston bar, should be on your radar. Found just a stone's throw from Walthamstow, the brewery and taproom boasts a huge array of brews, with wings and burgers provided by the gang at We Serve Humans.
The Park Tavern is the perfect place to drink craft beer in London. The historic pub is a beauty to look at, but they also serve up 50 different craft beers, with 13 beers on the taps and 100 spirits on the shelf. If you're hungry, grab a bite to eat of their seasonal food.
Located in Walthamstow, the award-winning Pillars Brewery has been producing some of the freshest lager around since 2016. Their cosy taproom serves delicious pints of the stuff, as well as a cracking selection of locally sourced pales, stouts, ciders and more, with an on-site food truck that dishes out scrumptious Indian fare. What's more, if you visit on a Sunday then you can enjoy a range of old-school video games for free, courtesy of RetroLDN, and you can even bring your dogs along to this welcoming venue.
Championing craft brews and creative ventures, JuJu's Bar & Stage is our pick for quirky places to drink beer in London. Grab a table inside or out in its large beer garden and sample all sorts of local pints, before watching a live music set, theatrical act or dance performance.
On the hunt for a craft beer bar in Leyton? Look no further than Mammoth Tap. Not only is there a mouthwatering selection of small batched brews to get your hands on, but there are also regular food truck visitors and live music gigs. Sign us up.
Whether you're looking to use your craft beer to wash down pizzas, burgers and Sunday Roasts, or just wanting to enjoy the golden nectar on its own, The Lock Inn is the place for you. Better yet, this Hackney Wick pub has a gorgeous canalside garden for getting your dose of vitamin D.
After a rambling walk across Hampstead Heath, The Gatehouse is the ultimate pit stop to rest your wary feet. Not only does it boast a fantastic selection of Spanish dishes and roasts, but also craft beers and real ales aplenty.
St Bart's Brewery is Smithfield's eclectic bar and restaurant serving up a rich choice of craft beers, guest ales and their own ciders from Kent. The venue even features its own especially installed stainless steel tanks which pour unpasteurised, unfiltered Meantime lager direct from their brewery and into your glass.
Another Fullers pub hits the streets of City with The Hydrant opening in Monument. Sticking to Fullers tradition and satisfying classic British boozer style, you'll find nothing but the best beers behind this bar and traditional pub grub coming out of the kitchen. Set up camp at this boozer and see the night away in comfort with a pint in hand.
You'll be spoilt for choice at Trinity Borough, which boasts 15 taps of tasty tipples. You'll find an excellent selection of craft beer up for grabs, from Beavertown's Gamma Ray through to Fuller's Frontier, which would go down all too well with one of the pub's Sunday roasts.
Fronting stylish interiors, a beaut rooftop and gorgeous foliage, KRAFT Dalston is a must-visit watering hole for craft beer. The venue slings out brews from German Kraft Beer, a brand that focuses on fresh tank pints. Hoppy drinking.
Get hopped-up on local beer at uber-cool hangout The Five Points Courtyard and Taproom. Serving pints fresh from the tanks at the on-site brewery, expect a laid-back affair with outdoor and indoor seating, complete with live sports and BBQ food like smoked pork belly ribs and carne asada flatbread.
Tucked away in Paddington Basin, Lockhouse is a must for those of you that lust over craft beer in London. Bringing you the best in bottles and draught, hunker down for a pint or two with a roster of award-winning burgers from the kitchen.
Nothing quite says a night in the pub nowadays than a craft pint, and it's oh so easy to get your hands on some in the heart of Mile End. Head on down for a roster of London favourites in the pub before heading for a top British meal.
If you're after a selection of great beers, try The Stag, as they boast over 24 taps and over 100 bottles and cans of beer. These are sourced from local brewers in the capital and across the country, and the pub often teams up with their favourite brewers to deliver excellent beer experiences. Meanwhile, their food is a seasonal pub affair – and their Sunday roast is known across the globe.
Based in London's Victoria, Greenwood has drawn in crowds from across London with its offering of stunning dishes and ice cold craft beers. The chefs plate up a menu of both traditional British dishes and new, daring plates. But it's the bar that's really caught our eye. The bar staff have pulled together some of the finest craft beers and real ales from London's most prestigious breweries, including the famous Long Arm Brewing company.
Nestled within the arches of the infamous Battersea Power Station, this taproom and on-site brewery is one of the best places for craft beer in London. From cask to keg, alongside guest brews from around the world, there's everything you could possibly need here.
Tucked away in the heart of Leadenhall Market lies Old Tom's Bar, one of the best places to get your hands on a craft beer in the city. Head downstairs and into this basement space of 19th century charm and friendly service, you'll find an extensive range of different bottles to cater for all tastes and preferences here.
For those of you who fancy an ice-cold pint of the good stuff, be sure to check out Joshua's Tavern in Leicester Square. Settle down in the laidback space for pints galore and gastro bites. With hop-hating pals? There are also 57 different types of gin on tap.
One of the best bars for craft beer in London, the cool and comfortable pub in Victoria is bringing you a unique selection of delicious sips, from tank-fresh pints and hand-pulled ales to classic lagers. Don't believe us? Head down and get sampling.
Grab a pint of craft beer, sink into one of the softer-than-soft armchairs and wash yourself with the heat of a crackling fire at the East Hill pub. Armed by the freshest ingredients and the finest cuts of meat, the chefs at this homely pub have skillfully curated a menu of hearty British dishes. Perfectly seasoned steaks are plated up beside delicious salads and chips, while hearty sausages produced on Britain's finest farms are placed on top of a portion of light mash potatoes. To help wash it down, there's a fantastic line up of locally brewed craft beers and real ales to sink into.
Headed up by BrewDog, this charming pub is serving up plenty of craft pints from local breweries. A visit to The Queen Charlotte will see you tucking into an exciting menu of burgers, all washed down with the very best beer.
The Crooked Billet is one of the oldest pubs in Wimbledon, feeding weary travellers and guests since 1881. The team behind this venue have worked tirelessly to create a welcoming, cosy atmosphere for visitors to unwind in; think homely fires, quaint antiques and huge armchairs. To complete the experience, guests can get stuck into their exquisite drink and food menu. From cask ales and craft beers to tender British steak and fresh, pan-fried fish, expect to leave this cosy spot a few pounds heavier and with a huge smile etched on your face.
If you're after hop-tastic pours in the heart of West Hampstead, then head to Wolfpack. This low-key spot is touting a crackin' range of craft bevvies, alongside a luxury junk food range. Not in the area? Head to the Fulham or Queen's Park location.
Sipping your craft beer, gazing ponderously out onto the river whilst surrounded by eccentric knick knacks. How spot on is that image? Enact the fantasy by heading down to The Bull's Head in Barnes for a craft beer and some proper pub grub. You won't find a more idyllic location or homely atmosphere anywhere!
2 for 1 cocktails from Burnt Faith with Strictly Vinyl tickets Thurs, Friday & Saturdays
Located in Shoreditch, spanning two floors of an unsuspecting building is an atmospheric gem of a bar where only vinyl is played. A hotspot for beer junkies, 26 Curtain Road boasts an exceptional international and local selection of craft beer on rotation, with tasty bar snacks to go alongside.
Looking for craft beers in London's Mayfair area? German Kraft Brewery is the first of its kind, boasting three floors and a roof terrace, with a selection of brews including the local's favourite amber lager 'Keller König' alongside continental guests and a menu of international dishes.
Nestled on Market Row in Brixton Village, Harlem Brewing Taproom is a beer lover's paradise. Founded by the trailblazing Celeste Beatty, the first African American female brewer to bring a craft beer to the masses, this vibrant space celebrates the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of beer.
Sip on the 125th Street IPA, bursting with citrus and spice, as you take in the lively design of the taproom - a colourful showcase crafted by talented Harlem artists and the innovative Brixton architects, Squire & Partners. It's a feast for the senses.
A great craft beer pub in London, The Arnos Arms offers an incredible selection of brews both on-tap and in the fridges. Grab a seat in their sun-ready garden and get stuck into an exciting array pints, upmarket grub and Sunday roasts.
Nestled on the edge of Queen Elizabeth Park in Hackney Wick, Howling Hops Tank Bar is a welcoming brewery with an industrial vibe, complete with low-hanging lights and some seriously tasty pints.
Swing by to check out the ten massive tanks pouring fresh brews straight from their on-site brewery. Gather your friends in the beer hall-inspired area or the outdoor garden to savour every sip. And don't forget to indulge in mouthwatering Latin fusion dishes from La Cunbia, like fries topped with pico de gallo, quesadillas, and chicken rice bowls.
Searching for unique craft beer places to drink? With traditional Czech dishes on the menu, PIVO is an excellent watering hole to head to with their pints coming from small breweries around Prague, including the Czech Beer Alliance.
Hidden above Brixton Market you'll find a wonderland of tasty bites, dancing and craft beer. Pergola Brixton is a stunning rooftop haunt decked out with gorgeous low-hanging plants and huge sharing-style benches. Head here for a night of local drinks, epic DJs and good vibes.
Found in Walthamstow and making up part of the Blackhorse Beer Mile, the pints at Pretty Decent Beer Co are as fresh as they come. They've got a whopping 20 taps to choose from, all brewed on site, ranging from hazy pales to sours or stouts. They have a weekly special too, available for just £4 on Thursdays, alongside delicious pizzas from It's Not Big Dough. And during the summer months? Be sure to check out the sunny outdoor terrace.
One of the best craft beer bars in Bermondsey, this charming and friendly spot can sort you out with a wide range of on tap brews and cask ales, alongside stone-baked pizzas, cocktails, an excellent gin selection and a great events schedule.
With a bar well versed in hops, The Queen Adelaide is your Putney go-to for some of the best craft beer in London. Hosting both Meantime ales and Camden brewery ales by draught you can kick back with a pint of the good stuff at this charming South London pub. There's even a secret garden to enjoy some alfresco drinks in.
Looking to wet your whistle with award-winning craft brews? Then head on over to The Arch House, nestled on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. Pop along to this rustic-chic hangout to tip back everything from cider and beer to bubbles and spirits, accompanied by elevated bar snacks.
You'll find some of the most delicious craft beers at The Exmouth Arms in Clerkenwell, nestled within the heart of the market. It showcases an array of local breweries, ever-changing and always top-notch. Noticeable from the onset thanks to its shiny, emerald green tiles and cosy inside with exposed brick walls and golden light fixtures, this Victorian boozer is an atmospheric place to visit with friends to enjoy a fresh pint or two.
Attached to the famous old Grade II listed Whitbread Brewery, The Jugged Hare boasts amazing craft beer to go along with its gastro pub cuisine. The bar area is comfortable and speakeasy style if you're just going to enjoy some drinks.
Hosting the perfect atmosphere to kick back with a chilled craft beer, WM Barker & Co is something of a hidden treasure beneath the streets of Bishopsgate. Decked out in old world style, sink into one of their arm chairs and peruse the menu of internationally sourced craft and draught beers.
BrewDog pride themselves on serving only the best, most exciting and most flavoursome craft beers we can get our paws on from all corners of the planet. This Scottish Brewer has 18 draft lines and a selection of the best bottled beers at the majority of their bars; find them across London.
One of the best places for craft beer in London, The King of Prussia offers a rotating selection of exciting sips and interesting ales which are perfect for brew lovers. Head over to Finchley pub for some incredible pints soaked up with burgers, pizzas and bar snacks.
For the freshest pints around, just a stone's throw from Brockwell Park, make your way to Bird House Brewery. This lively venue can be found underneath the railway arches of Herne Hill, serving a selection of home-brewed pale ales and lagers, alongside classic cocktails. Whether you're in the industrial interiors or chilling out on the sunny terrace, you can also enjoy DJ sets and live music here on weekends.
Nestled on White Lion Street, The Three Johns is a dimly lit boozer decked out in eye-catching portraits, hand-painted signs, and exposed brick walls. With a lineup of 14 unique draft beers and a whopping 72 bottled options, there's something for every beer aficionado here. Hungry? Indulge in a mouthwatering thin-crust pizza adorned with artichoke, wild garlic, and Gorgonzola, or dig into a fennel sausage pizza with sprouting purple broccoli.
Drawing in craft beer enthusiasts from all over the capital, the Temple Brew House is a charming venue in the middle of town that offers a relaxed dining and drinking experience to all its patrons. Armed with a menu of traditional British recipes and showcasing the finest creations of London's most well-known brewers, the venue deals only in complex flavours and carefree vibes.
Fronting craft beers such as pale ales, lagers and stouts, Mash Paddle Brewery is a fabulous shout. Settle in for a tutored class so you can make your very own brew, or head to their fun quiz nights and painting classes.
If you're after some of the hoppiest pints in the city, then head along to Small Beer Brew Co. Just a stone's throw from South Bermondsey station, this cool venue specialises in serving up classic beer styles below 2.8%. Fancy learning how it's all made? Head on one of its brewery tours.
