When the weekend rolls around, the first thing you need to decide is what kind of pub crawl you’re after. Do you want historic taverns, modern craft beer bars, or a mix of both? If you choose a theme, you’ll spend less time debating where to go next and more time enjoying the drinks. For example, a “Victorian‑Era” crawl could start at the 18th‑century Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street, then hop to the 19th‑century The George and Dragon in Bermondsey. That kind of focus keeps the night flowing.
Step 2: Map Out the Route
London’s pubs are scattered across the city, so a good map saves time and money. Use a paper list or a notes app to line up the ten spots so they’re roughly in a straight line. Here’s a practical order that keeps you moving:
- 1. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – Fleet Street, 1665‑built, 10‑pint capacity.
- 2. The George and Dragon – Bermondsey, 200‑year‑old, renowned for real ales.
- 3. The Lamb – Soho, 19th‑century, famous for its gin selection.
- 4. The Old Blue Last – Shoreditch, 1800‑s, live music every Friday.
- 5. The Old Vicarage – Camden, 17th‑century, hidden cellar.
- 6. The Seven Stars – Covent Garden, 1700‑s, classic cocktails.
- 7. The Old Bell – Bloomsbury, 16th‑century, award‑winning beers.
- 8. The Harp – Clerkenwell, 19th‑century, craft beer tap list.
- 9. The Crown – Southwark, 18th‑century, riverside view.
- 10. The Anchor – Greenwich, 1700‑s, last stop with a view of the Thames.
Walking from one to the next takes about 30 minutes on average, so you’ll have plenty of time to sample a pint or two at each stop.
Step 3: Know the Rules of the Crawl
Many pubs have a “no‑tipping” policy during crawl nights, so be prepared to pay the full tab. Also, check the opening hours; some places close early on Saturdays. A common mistake is assuming every pub is open until midnight. To avoid disappointment, call ahead or look up the latest hours on their websites.
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Step 4: Keep an Eye on Your Wallet
Pub crawls can feel free‑spirited, but the cost adds up. A pint of real ale averages £5, while a craft beer or cocktail can hit £8. If you plan to visit ten pubs, budget at least £70 for drinks alone. Bring a reusable bottle or a small bag to carry your own water; staying hydrated saves you from a pricey “water” order at the last stop.
Common Mistake: Skipping the Local Guide
Many itineraries ignore local knowledge. A quick chat with a bartender or a fellow patron can uncover hidden gems, like a speakeasy behind a bookshop or a pub that hosts free trivia nights. Trusting only online lists limits the experience.
Final Tips for a Smooth Night
Arrive early to secure a table, especially on Fridays. Carry a small wallet with cash and a card; some pubs still prefer cash for the bar tab. And most importantly, pace yourself: a drink every 45 minutes keeps you in good spirits without overdoing it.
Enjoy the Crawl, and Return Refreshed
When the night ends, you’ll have walked through a slice of London’s history, tasted a variety of ales, and met locals who share your love of good beer. The next weekend, you can swap the pubs for a new theme, like “microbrews” or “craft cocktails,” keeping the adventure fresh. Cheers to a memorable weekend escape!