London is awash with some of the best real ale you could wish to drink. There are plenty of British sourced real ale beers on the taps of the city's pubs so we have handpicked some of the best places to find the golden, good stuff. Whether you're looking for a traditional pub or a unique restaurant bar, we've found the best in London with the biggest selections of real ales that you'll want to visit them all.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 16th December 2024
With fresh tanks the dispense lager to Londoners, not only are The Castle forward minded when it comes to beer in the city, their real ale roster is promising to boot. Head on down to this quaint English pub for a dose of some of the best ale in the business.
With a sister venue not too far away, Tank and Paddle Bishopsgate hopes to thrill city revellers with its great comfort food offering, fun games and home brewed pints of beer. Guests can tuck into a stone baked pizza, challenge their mates to a few fun-loving games of shuffleboard or sink deep into one of the venue's real ales, all made in the huge tanks behind the bar.
Nothing hits the spot like a good pin o' ale come the work fall out or the weekend. Finding a boozer in London that has a faithful spread of crafty beers and real ale isn't always easy. But, take it from us, The Steam Engine in Waterloo have it all stocked behind their bar. Sit back, have a pint pulled and glug to your hearts content.
Satisfying the physique of a Victorian style lounge and a pubbing parlour of traditional character, The Britannia is a Kensington favourite for laid-back boozing and lovely gastronomy. Surf their bar for a selection of top real ales and sink back into their comfy leather sofas and armchairs for a piece of pubbing pleasure.
An historic boozer that dates back to the 17th century, you can count on an exciting and diverse menu of some of the best craft beers and guest ales from the King's Head in Roehampton. It's a haven for locals and visitors to the big open spaces at the nearby Richmond Park and Putney Heath, and there's a lovely garden ideal for kicking back and chilling with a pint or two.
Combine good vibes with great entertainment at Cheshire Cheese. Whether you're cheering on your favourite team with their sports screenings or enjoying a catch-up with friends, this traditional pub has something for everyone.
With cold pints, warm hospitality, and plenty of fun, it's a standout spot for casual hangouts in the City, alongside some hearty fare too like beef burgers and lamb hot pots.
A short walk from Mansion House, this unique London pub offers the perfect place to get your post-work pints in. Offering up an impressive selection of cask ales and local craft beers, alongside a delicious menu of pub grub and bar snacks, it's a comfortable, welcoming and relaxing joint to find yourself in.
You'll find plenty of real ale being served at Signal Box, from its rose gold taps and modern bar. The Euston pub is located slap bang in the middle of the station, upstairs in the food court, and offers a sweet escape from the commotion of the city. Enjoy a crisp pint while tucking into classics like halloumi fries, beer-battered haddock and all-day breakfasts.
With a mixture of craft beer and real ale, The Albany in Fitzrovia is the perfect spot for a pint. The venue has two sides, a traditional dining room that also serves classic British, and hidden away, the basement bar which puts on some seriously hot club nights.
They don't just serve up spectacular gastropub food in the Guinea – you can wash it all down with a selection of the finest ales in Mayfair. Never skimping on quality, they make sure everything from their wine to their beers to their service is the best it can possibly be.
Serving a variety of Cask Mark Accredited real ales, The Windsor is a top choice for high quality sips. Located just a stone's throw from Fenchurch Street station, the City pub promises traditional interiors and comfy leather booths to relax in.
You can also catch live sports on their TV screens, which offer both Sky and TNT. Feeling peckish? Then check out their extensive menu, which features everything from crispy chicken and bacon burgers to mac 'n' cheese or steak and ale pie.
A Fuller's favourite pulling pints of some crafty cask ales, guest ales and premium draught beers. Grab a glass of London Pride, Frontier, Red Fox, Seafarers and more whilst you patiently await your connecting train or just fancy a quick pint in the nearest station destination. With plenty of people watching to fill your boots with, The Parcel Yard definitely satisfies that parched mouth after a public transport venture.
Hardened ale drinkers in London needn't skip a drink because they can't find a suitable pub in London, especially when a destination like The Founders Arms come to their aid. Head on down to this Thames side boozer for British ales aplenty alongside craft beers and pub grub to boot.
Boasting fresh, seasonal British dishes, there are many reasons to visit this real ale pub in London. But add in a riverside location and loads of ales to get stuck into to while away the summer days, One Over the Ait is a must should you ever find yourself in Brentford.
A regular fixture on the south London boozing scene since way back in 1821, The Devonshire is one of the best pubs in Balham for a top quality drop of ale. Serving an extensive range and focusing on local producers, there's also a range of great bar snacks and gastro fare as well as a cracker of a beer garden if the weather's playing ball.
The Castle, a Farringdon traditional pub, once favoured for its gambling is now a favourite for its sublime selection of beers and stunning function room. They serve four cask marque accredited real ales as well as 20 speciality beers, lagers and ciders on tap. Furnished in the style of an authentic London pub, but also one of the best karaoke spots in London, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Get on the guest list by booking online here to make sure you don't miss out on enjoying this lovely spot.
They're pretty darn serious about their ale contingent at The Northcote. Crowd-pleasers like the Sharp's Doombar, Adnams and Hogs Back are on the pumps, and they're frequently mixing it up with their own ale and cider festivals that are well worth checking out!
Complementary Prosecco reception on arrival If you book your Christmas party with us Saturday-Monday
This rather splendid establishment is the home of The Betjeman Arms real ale! And a very comfortable home at that, filled with squishy soft furnishings, grandiose features and a wonderful sun terrace. Pop into this great pub whilst waiting for a train or simply because you fancy it; try their very own real ale and satiate your hungry with an array of great British fodder.
The Grafton in Kentish Town has drawn in ale lovers from across London with its wide selection of award-winning ales. With 8 taps all circulation the best ales in London, the roof terrace has proven to be a massive hit with the crowds, particularly in the summer months. Grab your mates, grab a pint of delicious ale and unwind at this pub in North London.
A popular pub in Soho, Sun & Thirteen Cantons is an intimate venue near Regents Street and is a great choice for those seeking out real ales as their selection is extensive. One of the top London pubs to visit for as well as its friendly and buzzing atmosphere it is also a great choice for private gatherings, as their basement bar is a cosy space perfect for those wanting a chic, yet traditional party space.
A modern escape from the everyday grind of the city, The Tokenhouse is a mixture of industrial-inspired décor and cosy gastro-pub corners. For a great selection of real ale in London, this is the pub to head to after work. They have an extensive selection of cask ales and craft beers. The Cellar Bar is a hidden gem; with a speakeasy feel.
There's not exactly a shortage of great pubs in Hampstead, but right up there among our favourites is The Flask. A Victorian gem with plenty of character and a lovely conservatory space, it's absolutely worth the 15-minute walk from Hampstead Heath. Pull up a stool and work your way through their collection of locally brewed drinks and signature Young's bitter, with fantastic seasonal guest ales always on tap.
You can expect a range of top-class Young's and guest ales from Winchmore Hill's self-proclaimed “veritable palace of refreshment”. Great regardless of whether you're dropping in for a swift half or hanging around for the entire evening, there's lots of variety on the menu and a decked beer garden if the weather looks good.
Made your way round to this charming boozer off Hackney Downs yet? Why not! It quickly becomes a firm favourite, charming punters with an interior that features giant maypoles, wicker masks and brass icons galore. Plonk yourself at a table and prepare for a feast; there's a rotating menu of culinary delights and plenty of 'deadly ciders', craft beers and home-infused gins at the same time.
Found just yards from the legendary Cutty Sark, The Old Brewery is a historic boozer perfect for a drop of real ale. There's a great choice of locally-brewed craft beers alongside a range of distilled spirits, a lovely atmosphere to welcome both locals and visitors and a stunning outdoor terrace for the warmer months.
Not only does The Riverside offer a range of award-winning cask ales from Young's, it also promises some of the best riverside views in London to enjoy them from. Pick out your favourite tipple and make straight for the terrace, where there's room for up to 200 guests to kick back, relax and enjoy a couple of pints no matter what time of year they're visiting.
The Crown & Sceptre in Shepherd's Bush is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food, good drinks, and good company. This stylish pub has a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful garden, perfect for enjoying a real ale on a sunny day. Every Tuesday, they host a board game night, so gather your friends and challenge them to a match. And while you're there, be sure to try their delicious menu, which includes small plates like crispy squid and cauliflower wings.
Tucked away in the heart of Mayfair, Iron Duke is a cosy London pub serving up real ales alongside delicious pub grub; making it a lunchtime gem in London's West End for those wanting a quiet break during their retail therapy, or a work treat.
The Prince Alfred is a stunning Victorian pub in Paddington dating back to 1863. This gorgeous boozer is decked out in original etched glass windows and a tall mahogany centrepiece bar that's surrounded by a curved counter. While the decor has been updated and the surroundings have changed, one thing remains the same: its reputation for having a wide selection of lagers and ales, London gins, and some seriously tasty British pub grub with a signature twist.
When it comes to real ale pubs in London, there are few places as charming as Prince of Wales. Offering a selection of cask brews and craft creations, this is a haven for beer lovers in South London. To top it off? The menu of elevated pub grub is the perfect accompaniment to your sipping.
Streatham's The Railway is a real ale pub that's bringing you the finest of local brewery pours, alongside other craft beers and world wines. Better yet, this friendly spot will even let you bring your pooch along, so no member of the family is left behind.
Brixton is famed for many things, but who knew that you could also savour some of the best real ale in the business? Just shy of the main station and one of the most charming pubs in South London, join Trinity Arms for plenty of pints of ale to go around.
The Swan Tavern, nestled in the heart of London City, is a cosy haven of rich furnishings and classic charm. With Edwardian elegance, leather stools, and an ornate ceiling, it's a sight to behold. The menu is a feast for the eyes and stomach, offering mouthwatering delights like tuna toasties and traditional Scotch eggs, perfectly complemented by a crisp real ale.
West Londoners have one firm spot when it comes to catching a pint of real ale in London. Join Defector's Weld not only for a pub that promises your classic favourites in the shape of Sunday roasts and craft pints, their real ale selection is to be celebrated and supped too.
Looking for the best real ale pubs in London? Doggett's Coat & Badge can be found in the heart of Southbank, offering amazing views of the Thames from its outdoor terrace. Inside, you'll find a traditional space for enjoying classic British pub grub.
British ales in London? Come and get you some. Not only toting classic pub innards alongside a roster of live music acts, The Half Moon is a boozer than promises to leave no real ale lover behind in their bid to bring you the very best of British drinks and dining.
If you're looking for a pint of real ale in a London pub, look no further than heading over to Ferry Boat Inn. Not only does this boozer boast a list of award-winning pints and hearty grub, but this riverside location is second to none.
Ale be damned, you're looking thirsty. Looking for a pub in London that can quench those needs? With their draught roster and top notch ale list, head on down to this traditional British boozer in the heart of Liverpool Street for some of the best real ale in London.
The coolest London pubs with real ale? The Horatia has to be up there, thanks to its rustic interiors, weekly vinyl sessions and Sunday jukebox event. But that's not all, as you can use your pints to wash down the menu from Little Bao Boy.
Head east where Leyton boozer Hare & Hounds is keeping you fed and watered with real ales and a menu of burgers, roast dinners, wings, salads and more. From winter to summer, fireplaces and a plush garden have you sorted.
Draft House bring you some of the finest craft beers and real ales in the business. Head to their spot byTower Bridge for a huge selection of beer and ale, alongside delicious burgers.
Heralded for their beer selection and their plight to feed Londoners some of the finest in British gastro dishes, The Duke of Clarence also harbour another secret, and that's their bid for real ale. Join them for a fine selection to share amongst friends and family.
Where better to imbibe some amazing real ale than cosy, English heritage inspired gastro pub The Bull? Boasting some wonderful real ales, this is the ideal location for a warming drinking session with friends. The many seating areas invite you in becomingly, the sofas seeming impossibly squashy. If you get a bit peckish, there is a selection of pub grub with a contemporary twist on offer.
A long time supporter of real ale, this fun and friendly Goodge Street pub is a CAMRA advocate that also offers a menu of delicious grub to accompany your beer.
The old-school boozer on Tottenham Court Road is the perfect spot for anyone on the hunt for a real ale pub in Central London. With plenty of cask ales to choose from, there's also a delicious menu of pub grub to help soak it all up.
As well as some of the loveliest views in the city, The Dickens Inn is a renowned real ale pub near Tower Bridge. The traditional pub is spread across three floors and has an impressive list of real ale and beers, served alongside hearty Italian dishes.
Nothing quite hits the spot like a pint of real ale in a traditional Hampstead pub, right? So make your way over to Holly Bush to wet your whistle with a range of tasty brews, as well as chomp on contemporary British cuisine, all in a cosy setting.
Offering a mammoth selection of craft beers and real ales, this cool and quirky London pub also serves up a great range of tasty bar snacks and burgers, and even has a secret cocktail bar hidden in the eaves.
The Kings Arms is a bit of a favourite for locals in Mayfair and that's because of their tasty selection of real ales. A great place to kick back and enjoy a beer, they've got tonnes of updated pub classics menu to compliment it too.
Find your way down a narrow passage and go down the rabbit hole, to this rustic wine bar. Not only is there an impressive wine list, but beer lovers will enjoy the real ale selection and if you're hungry, there are classic British dishes on offer.
Not only is The Colonel Fawcett a mecca for gin, but it also houses an impressive collection of real ale to enjoy in its traditional surroundings. Located in the bustling centre of Camden, it's a perfect sanctuary for London's beer lovers.
If you're after real ales in London, look no further than a trip to Stoke Newington boozer, The Jolly Butchers. This CAMRA-nominated pub offers up a range of locally brewed pints that you can sip on.
With Ales like ESB and London Pride centre stage, The Admiralty lives up to its Fullers branding. Reviving the nautical prestige of the HMS Victory from hull to stern, this central London pub recreates the grandeur of the Navy ship from the fitting plot of Trafalgar Square. There's nothing more satisfying that a place where you can people watch with a pint in hand. All aboard the Admiralty.
A traditional and welcoming East End pub that serves top real ales; The Artillery Arms offers tasty, classic pub food, perfect for those wanting something to line the stomach before a big night this pub is perfectly placed as a jumping point for a night out in Shoreditch. This pub is a perfect place to sample some real ale in London and chill with mates.
Forming a part of the Grade II listed Whitbread Brewery, The Jugged Hare is the perfect place for a relaxed drink of some delicious real ale in London. Having developed their own pale ale on site, The Jugged Hare gives you a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some homebrewed ale in a friendly and laid back environment.
There's 8 cask ales on tap at The Windmill, with great coverage of Young's beer and a regularly rotating selection of guest ales likely to feature upon your visit. Grab a pint of the good stuff before heading home or stay for some dinner; the pub boasts one of the most impressive pie menus in London with their steak offering having won 3 national awards.
Real ale in London, it's delicious and it's well worth hunting out, but we're here to make things a little easier for you; simply head to the Marquess in Covent Garden for your dose of honest ales, London beers and relaxed pub drinking.
This gorgeous pub near St John's is a top spot for real ales in London. Connoisseurs of sourcing locally, you'll find a host of South London brews, and a few more exotic varieties.
Searching for some real ale in North London? The Canonbury has you covered. Enjoy their extensive range of rich and tasty ale with a great range of delicious burgers, steaks, or a traditional Sunday roast.
After some quality brews? Boasting traditional English interiors and regular sports screenings, Leinster Arms is a great shout for craft beer. Choose from five brilliant cask ales on tap and pair your pint with lip-smacking British gastro grub.
Something of a jack-of-all-trades pub in London, not only do The Sun of Camberwell pull of pub quizzin', Sunday roasts and private parties in their parlour room, the roster of real ales and draft beers are a delicious force to most definitely, be messed with.
When it comes to drinking London's best ales, there's a pub in Chelsea that can promise just that. Not only do they host a private dining room and pub that boasts traditional awnings and British charm, their ale roster is brimming with classic names and new drinks to try.
Viaduct Tavern is a traditional London City pub, located in the heart of the City near St. Pauls. A must for lovers of London's history, and originally built as a Victorian gin palace - Viaduct Tavern has evolved in to a brilliant City pub serving great food and choice real ale in London.
Shaws Booksellers is a quirky City bar that comes complete with a delicious lunch and dinner menu, and the best London ale. They pride themselves on their great selection of real ales, classic cocktails and great food! Perfect for that much deserved after work drink, pub lunch or a spot of dinner.
The Woodman is bringing a slice of the countryside to the heart of Battersea, giving South Londoners hearty pub grub, real ale and a cosy setting to revel in. Warm up beside a glowing open fire an and explore the extensive collection of beer with a few of their signature nibbles.
Looking for a great spot to soak up real ales in west London? Head to Goldhawk Road where you'll find this charming boozer and its cracking selection of quality beers, tasty wines and British food.
