For Seasoned Explorers of Life
Discover London: Where Hidden Gems Sparkle and Classics Never Go Out of Style
From dazzling West End shows to immersive cabaret nights, from sipping a pint in a historic riverside pub to indulging in bottomless brunches with prosecco—AL's Guide to London covers it all. Whether you're a curious tourist, a local explorer, or a weekend wanderer, discover the best experiences the city has to offer, curated with passion and insight.
Start exploring now and uncover your perfect London adventure!
Affiliate Disclosure
To help fund this site and keep the content free, some of the links on AL’s Guide to London are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend experiences, services, and products I genuinely believe will enhance your time in London. Thanks for your support!
London Riverside Pubs
"Where the Thames flows and the pints follow."
London’s riverside pubs are more than just places to grab a drink—they’re liquid history with a view. From smugglers’ dens and sailor haunts to literary lounges and celebrity-owned gems, these waterside wonders serve up stories with every sip. Whether you're chasing sunsets in Greenwich, ghost tales in Limehouse, or gourmet roasts in Docklands, there’s a riverside pub waiting to welcome you with open arms and a well-poured pint. Just follow the river—and your thirst.
The Gun - Docklands
"Where smugglers once whispered, now the pints do the talking."
Tucked away like a well-kept secret on the banks of the Thames, The Gun in Docklands is a historic hideaway with tales as strong as its whisky. Once a favourite haunt of Lord Nelson (and possibly his mistress), this 18th-century gem now serves up riverside views, gourmet pub grub, and enough naval charm to make you salute your fish and chips. Whether you're chasing Docklands history or just a decent Sunday roast, The Gun hits the mark.
The Cutty Sark - Greenwich
"Anchors aweigh and pints at the ready!"
Nestled just a cannonball’s toss from the legendary tea clipper it’s named after, The Cutty Sark Pub in Greenwich is where maritime history meets riverside charm. With views of the Thames that could make a sailor weep with joy and a menu that’s more comforting than a woolly jumper in a storm, this pub is your port of call for classic British fare, local ales, and nautical banter. Whether you're fresh off the DLR or just drifting in from the Royal Observatory, drop anchor here—you’ll be glad you did.
Trafalgar Tavern - Greenwich
"Where history pours as freely as the ale."
Step into The Trafalgar Tavern, and you’re not just entering a pub—you’re boarding a time machine with better snacks. Perched regally on the Thames, this 19th-century watering hole once hosted Victorian banquets and political debates, and now serves up panoramic river views, roast dinners worthy of Dickens, and enough naval nostalgia to make Admiral Nelson raise a glass. Whether you're here for the scenery, the seafood, or just to say you drank where Gladstone dined, Trafalgar Tavern is Greenwich’s crown jewel of conviviality.
The Grapes - Limehouse
"Where Gandalf guards the bar and Dickens haunts the corners."
The Grapes in Limehouse isn’t just a pub—it’s a portal to London’s literary and theatrical soul. With over 500 years of history soaked into its timbered walls, this riverside gem boasts views of the Thames, tales of Charles Dickens, and the occasional magic touch from Sir Ian McKellen himself, who co-owns the place. Whether you're here for a pint, a performance, or just hoping to hear “You shall not pass!” at closing time, The Grapes is a true East End legend.
Affiliate Disclosure
To help fund this site and keep the content free, some of the links on AL’s Guide to London are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend experiences, services, and products I genuinely believe will enhance your time in London. Thanks for your support!