Best Pubs Near London Bridge in London

View of a London street during the day. Photo by Sabrina Mazzeo- Unsplash

London Bridge is one of the most widely known tourist attractions in the city of London. Located right in the smack dab of the city, bridging the gap over the River Thames, the London Bridge is a monumental piece of architecture that is often found in travel books and websites all over the world. 

So, where should you stop off for a pint of Smithwicks, Guinness, or Beavertown IPA if you are in London Town? Let’s check out some of the best pubs near London Bridge in London for those who are new to this bustling UK capital! 

The George

The George Inn – By Ewan Munro from London, UK – George, Borough, SE1, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6048166

The George is one of London’s oldest pubs! And you will immediately be able to tell the old-world charm and Old English vibe as you see the outside. Complete with beer garden tables on the cobblestone streets and some of the best pints in the area, The George is a 17th-century structure that still holds fast today. 

The Anchor

The Anchor Bankside – By Ewan Munro from London, UK – Anchor, Bankside, SE1, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9602477

If you head to London Bridge, there is no way you can miss The Anchor! It is located almost right on the water, complete with red windows, a brick exterior, and flowers that are seemingly in bloom all year round. We recommend heading here and sitting outside at one of the lower-level tables or on the second-story roof if you can manage to snag a table! 

The Shipwright Arms

The Shipwright Arms – By Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35483510

The Shipwright exterior is enough to make you stop and stare! This massive building is a Grade-II listed historical structure that boasts bright blue windows, incredible structures, and gold writing that seemingly beckons tourists and locals alike to come in and have a pint — or five. 

The Old Thameside Inn

The Old Thameside Inn – By Smiley.toerist – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86164139

Aptly named after the River Thames that the London Bridge so famously crosses, the Old Thameside Inn is a gem next to The Golden Hinde. This popular spot offers great views over the water, The Spire, and other famous London buildings that make it the ideal afternoon spot for tourists. 

The Barrowboy and Banker

Barrowboy and Banker London Bridge – By Ewan Munro from London, UK – Barrowboy and Banker, London Bridge, SE1, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64009995

As soon as you cross over London BRidge, or before you head across the infamous pathway, head to The Barrowboy and Banker, a sprawling pub that has ample seating areas inside of the high-ceilinged pub. We love that there are so many beers on draft, and you can also find a seat — even if you head here after the post-work rush that happens every SINGLE day of the week. 

The Mudlark

The Mudlark London Bridge – By The Mudlark Pub, London Bridge by canalandriversidepubs co uk, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=102470987

In the mood for a dimmer and relaxed pub vibe? If you are tired of the gastropubs and modern breweries, head to The Mudlark for a cozy and quaint Irish-pub-like feel to your evening. Order a drink at the wooden bar and head to one of the square tables by the window to check out the views and chat with your pals. We love coming here if you are in the mood to escape the crowds and still get a refreshing pint. 

Bunch of Grapes

Bunch of Grapes Borough – By Ewan Munro from London, UK – Bunch of Grapes, Borough, SE1Uploaded by Oxyman, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=22394292

Since this pub is seemingly hidden and obstructed by the massive Shard building, it is always less busy than other more tourist-laden pubs. That’s why we love coming here! Head here to try some of their light bites and craft beers in a relaxed and cozy setting. 

The Brittania

Brittania – By Stephen Richards, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=59642567

This opulent pub has incredible light fixtures, dark wooden seating, and a great vibe that is perfect for any occasion! Although it can look a bit plain when you first see it, as soon as you enter and see the massive drink range and behind-the-bar selection, you will ever want to leave.

The Woolpack

Cock and Woolpack – By Ewan Munro from London, UK – Cock and Woolpack, Bank, EC3, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60325066

Known for being a baby blue building among a sea of brown stone-covered walls, The Woolpack is a cute and quaint pub that is perfect for trying some of the best local craft beer in London.

The Miller 

Smithwick’s Pint – By Khruner – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=32024022

There is no way you can miss the big “HOOPLA!” sign on the side of The Miller! Known for its outdoor bench seating and craft beer, we love this modern take on a typical British pub.