London Pub Crawls with a View: Scenic Routes You'll Love

Nothing gets Londoners together quite like a good pub crawl, but let’s be honest—the view matters. If you’re after a pint with scenery that’ll have your Instagram lighting up, you’re in luck. In London, you don’t just drink; you drink in the city, with its skyline, historic alleyways, or even boats slowly drifting past.

The trick is to choose routes that show off the city as much as the local brews. Aim for riverside classics in Bermondsey, sky-high rooftop bars in the City, or maybe a wander through the leafy walks of Little Venice. Pack a contactless card, check pub opening times (some shut early, especially Sundays), and cross-check for football match days—nothing like a pub that’s wall-to-wall with loud fans when you’re just after a quiet lager and sunset view.

• Getting Set for a London Pub Crawl
• Thames Riverside Routes Worth the Walk
• Sky-High Sips: Rooftop Pub Hopping
• Canalside Crawls in Little Venice
• Historic Trails: Old Pubs with Stories
• Tips for the Best Scenic Pub Crawl

Getting Set for a London Pub Crawl

Planning is the difference between a cracking night out and wandering until last orders. In London, most pub crawls start after work on Fridays or weekends, when the city’s got life. But don’t underestimate how fast places fill up, especially along popular scenic routes.

First up, nail down a route. Decide if you want riverside vibes along the Thames, a rooftop crawl in Shoreditch or the City, or something more relaxed around Little Venice. The London pub crawls with the best views often follow walking paths, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re going with a group larger than six, it’s smart to call ahead—many spots in places like Borough Market or along the Southbank only let in smaller crowds without a booking.

Remember, public transport can make or break your crawl. The Tube runs later on Fridays and Saturdays, but some lines finish up around midnight. Use apps like Citymapper to keep an eye on your route and check for delays before heading out.

If you’re visiting iconic pubs or big-name bars, consider their peak times and tourist traffic. TikTok-famous rooftop spots such as Madison or The Culpeper fill up quickest around sunset. Aim to start early or book in advance.

Here’s a quick look at things to prep before your scenic crawl begins:

• Charge your phone and bring a battery pack – you’ll want to snap photos and navigate.
• Carry ID—bouncers at historic or rooftop pubs are strict, and Challenge 25 is enforced everywhere.
• Tap-and-go payment only—most London pubs have gone cashless, especially post-pandemic.
• Check the weather and pack a small brolly if it looks dodgy. Roof terraces don’t always have cover.
• If you’re planning to eat, check menus or whether food service stops before 9 pm. Thames-side pubs and canal spots usually fill tables for dinner quickly.

Some London crawls are legendary—think Monopoly Pub Crawl or the Circle Line Crawl—but for a low-fuss scenic route, four or five pubs is plenty. Don’t try to cram too many in, or you’ll spend more time on the street than at the bar.

Bags are often checked at bigger bars and rooftops, so pack light—nobody wants to lug a weekend suitcase through Southbank. And finally, don’t forget to drink some water along the way. You’ll thank yourself the next morning.

Thames Riverside Routes Worth the Walk

If you’re after a classic London pub crawl with a view, head for the Thames path. Pubs dot the south bank and riverside from east to west—there’s loads to choose from, and no two have the same view or vibe. Out east, the stretch from Tower Bridge to Rotherhithe is packed with history. Try the historic Prospect of Whitby, London’s oldest riverside pub dating from 1520, or swing by The Mayflower—which claims to be the spot where pilgrims set sail to America. Both have wooden decks right over the water, so you can watch boats drift by while you sip.

Westwards, you’ll hit the buzzing South Bank scene. Walk from London Bridge towards the London Eye and you’ll find pubs like The Anchor Bankside with views of St Paul’s and Shakespeare’s Globe. Head a bit further and grab a craft brew at The Understudy next to the National Theatre—it’s relaxed and rarely overrun with tourists. Most of these routes are walkable and follow the Thames Path, which means you can sneak away to the river’s edge or catch live buskers between stops.

• Start: Tower Bridge or London Bridge stations—both have easy Tube access.
• Check opening hours—Prospect of Whitby and The Mayflower get packed by 6pm on Fridays.
• Clear signage along the Thames Path keeps you on track, even after a cider or two.
• Most pubs offer outdoor seating—if the weather turns, grab a table inside early.

Got time to keep going? Head into leafy Hammersmith where The Dove pub boasts a riverside terrace and claims to have Britain’s smallest public bar, the snug.

These riverside spots each have their quirks, but all promise a crawl with unbeatable scenery. If you fancy a sunrise pint (hey, no judgment), mornings are far quieter—plus, you’ll get the best riverside tables with zero hassle.

Sky-High Sips: Rooftop Pub Hopping

Drinking with a skyline view is a bit of a London rite of passage. Whether you’re showing off the city to visiting mates or just want to mix up the usual after-work pints, rooftop bars offer a fresh spin on the classic London pub crawl. Not all rooftop pubs are born equal, though—some charge steep prices, others get rammed after work. Here’s how to hit the best ones without missing out.

If you want that 360° cityscape, start at Sky Garden near Monument—entry’s free but you’ll need to book a slot, especially on weekends. There’s the Darwin Brasserie on the 36th floor, and the Sky Pod bar where you can sip a G&T above the gardens. Just keep in mind, trainers and sportswear are a hard no here after 6pm.

The Aviary at Finsbury Square is a solid second stop. Their heated terrace means British weather won’t ruin your night, and they pour excellent local beers alongside fancy cocktails. Don’t skip the nibbles; their sharing boards go fast.

Midway through your route, make space for Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch—a more laid-back scene with regular rooftop pop-up themes (think summer gardens or winter lodges). No need for reservations during the week, but Fridays get busy early. Street food and craft beers are their thing, and you’ll usually find a mixed crowd—local creatives, students, and after-work teams unwinding.

For something right by the river, head to The Culpeper in Spitalfields. It's got a greenhouse-inspired rooftop and is perfect for a relaxed reset in between stops. They even grow a lot of their herbs up there.

Here’s a quick snapshot if you want to compare the top rooftop pub stops:

Tip: Rooftop spots often get stricter on dress codes and age checks, especially as it gets later. Some only take card payments. Always check if there are ticketed events, especially in summer and around bank holidays. Okay with stairs? Not all rooftops have lift access.

Aim to start your pub crawl by late afternoon, so you actually get to enjoy the sunset and maybe the last happy hour deals too.

Canalside Crawls in Little Venice

If you want a break from busy streets, Little Venice is your answer—waterways, narrowboats, and a line-up of proper London pub crawls that feel like a hidden find. This spot sits where Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union Canal, a fifteen-minute walk from Paddington Station. Step off the tube and you’re straight into leafy paths, quirky floating cafés, and pub gardens that slip right up to the water’s edge.

First up, The Warwick Castle. Not a castle, but a Victorian pub that’s a favourite with locals and anyone who wants to start with a quiet pint. They’ve been here since 1867. From there, head along the canal over to The Bridge House, which does top Sunday roasts and even shares a corner with the Canal Cafe Theatre (always worth checking for comedy shows or late gigs upstairs).

Around the bend, The Waterway is hard to miss. Big deck, loads of seating, perfect for sunny afternoons. People rave about the burgers, and you can actually watch kayakers cruise past while you’re at your table. If you like hopping between indoor and outdoor vibes, this one nails it.

It’s easy to plot a loop:

• Start at Paddington Station. Take the canal path towards Little Venice basin.
• Pop into The Warwick Castle for history and an easy start.
• Walk over to The Bridge House for food and optional theatre.
• Continue to The Waterway for drinks on their huge terrace.
• If you’ve got energy, keep following the canal to Maida Vale, where The Prince Alfred rounds off the crawl in classic Victorian style—check out their snug bar layout, known as one of London’s quirkiest.

Tip: Little Venice doesn’t get the weekend rugby or football crowds, so it’s a chilled spot for slow-paced crawling. If you’re coming with a group, it’s smart to book a table at The Waterway, especially when the sun’s out. You’ll get those rare London canal views—without fighting for elbow room.

Historic Trails: Old Pubs with Stories

London’s got centuries hidden behind its pub doors. If you want a crawl that’s more than just pints—a bit of living history, really—these age-old spots will do the job. Plenty of the city’s oldest pubs have seen everything from secret meetings to ghost stories, and many still look pretty much like they did a hundred years ago (sometimes literally a hundred, sometimes a few hundred more).

Start your historic route in Fleet Street. The London pub crawls crowd almost always puts Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on their lists, and for good reason. Built shortly after the Great Fire of London in 1667, you practically step into a different century. It’s got original wooden beams, maze-like rooms, and a list of famous former punters that includes Charles Dickens and Mark Twain. They serve classic ales and pies—nothing fancy, just how it’s always been.

Next up, slip over to The George Inn, just a short walk south near London Bridge. This spot really is special. It’s the last remaining galleried coaching inn in London and it’s been open since the early 1600s. The National Trust now looks after it, but there’s no museum feeling—just a cosy yard and low ceilings. Shakespeare supposedly popped in and, if you book ahead, you might even get into the upstairs dining hall.

Further up, try the Seven Stars tucked behind the Royal Courts of Justice. This place escaped the Great Fire and has stories of barristers celebrating wins (and drowning losses) dating back to at least 1602. The pub cat, Ray Brown, is almost as famous as the house pies. It’s tiny, friendly, and loaded with character.

Here’s a handy comparison of classic picks for a historical scenic crawl:

Pro tip: Many of these spots get busy after work or on weekends. Plan your crawl for a weekday afternoon if you want more space and time to soak up the atmosphere. And always check if you need to book—some spots, like The George, now require it for their best rooms or group tables. You’ll often find locally brewed ales on tap, so ask for whatever’s come in from nearby breweries. The staff know their stuff and usually love to share a bit of history with your drink.

Tips for the Best Scenic Pub Crawl

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget the basics. If you want your adventure to go smoothly (and with the best views in London), keep these practical tips in mind.

• Start early for sunset views: London rooftop pubs and riverside spots fill up fast, especially on Fridays after 5pm. If you want that window seat at The Ship in Wandsworth or Madison’s rooftop terrace, aim for a late afternoon start.
• Pick pubs with outdoor seating: A lot of riverside classics, like The Angel in Bermondsey or The Narrowboat in Islington, let you sip next to the water. It’s worth checking if you need to book ahead for big groups.
• Plan your travel: Don’t drive—public transport is your best friend, especially with the Night Tube running late on weekends. Most scenic London pub crawls are a short walk or Tube ride between stops. Download Citymapper if you’re not a regular.
• Mix up your drink choices: Real ale, craft beer, and local gins are big here. Some Thames-side pubs like The Mayflower even have their own label. Don’t just stick to one round; try something local at each stop.
• Watch the weather: Rooftops like Skylight Tobacco Dock and venues with garden seating are not so fun in a downpour. Always check the forecast, and maybe keep a fold-up brolly in your bag just in case.
• Eat as you go: London pubs serve everything from Scotch eggs to proper Sunday roasts. Grab a bite at every second or third pub to keep you fuelled, and not just tipsy. Venues like The Gun (Docklands) or The Prospect of Whitby do award-winning grub with river views.

If you want to avoid long waits or overcrowding, especially during summer, check out this comparison of popular scenic pub routes and their typical weekend crowds:

Bring a little cash; smaller bars along the canal sometimes have card minimums, even in 2025. Lastly, look up any London events or festivals—sometimes a riverside pub crawl will drop you right in the middle of a Southbank food market or an outdoor film screening. Spontaneity is half the fun, but a bit of planning goes a long way for those iconic London views with your pint.