Best Pubs Near London Bridge (Top Historic & Riverside Pubs in 2026)

Updated for 2026 • Canonical London Pub Guide • Gold Standard • Borough Market • Tower Bridge • South Bank

Few places in London offer a better pub experience than London Bridge. Within a short walk of the station you'll find centuries-old coaching inns, riverside taverns overlooking the Thames, lively craft beer pubs, gastropubs serving exceptional British food and hidden local favourites that many tourists never discover.

Whether you're looking for a traditional English pub after exploring Borough Market, somewhere to enjoy a Sunday roast, riverside drinks at sunset or simply the best pint near Tower Bridge, this guide compares the area's top pubs to help you choose the right one.

Unlike many round-up articles, we don't simply list pubs. Every recommendation has been assessed for atmosphere, food, drinks, location, value, service and overall visitor experience so you can confidently decide where to spend your evening.

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How We Selected London's Best Pubs Near London Bridge

Our recommendations are based on independent editorial research rather than sponsorships. Every pub was evaluated using the criteria that matter most to visitors.

• Historic significance and character.
• Quality of beers, ales and drinks.
• Food quality and consistency.
• Atmosphere throughout the day and evening.
• Walking distance from London Bridge Station.
• Overall visitor reviews.
• Value for money.
• Suitability for different types of travellers.

Compare the Best Pubs Near London Bridge

Which Pub Should You Choose?

Our Detailed Reviews

🍺 The George Inn — Best Historic Pub Near London Bridge ⭐ Editor's Choice

Why We Recommend It

The George Inn isn't simply one of London's oldest pubs—it is an experience that transports visitors back several centuries. Owned by the National Trust, this remarkable coaching inn features timber galleries, a charming courtyard and an atmosphere that captures London's history better than almost anywhere else in the city.

If you're visiting London Bridge for the first time and only have time for one pub, this is the one we recommend.

Atmosphere

Traditional, lively and unmistakably British. During weekday afternoons the courtyard feels relaxed, while evenings bring a vibrant mix of locals and visitors enjoying classic ales.

What to Order

• ✔ Traditional cask ale
• ✔ Fish & Chips
• ✔ Steak & Ale Pie

Pros

• ✔ National Trust property.
• ✔ London's last surviving coaching inn.
• ✔ Excellent traditional ales.
• ✔ Rich historic atmosphere.
• ✔ Only four minutes from London Bridge Station.

Potential Drawbacks

• Very busy on Thursday and Friday evenings.
• Outdoor seating fills quickly during summer.

Best For: First-time visitors, history lovers and anyone seeking an authentic British pub.

Editor's Verdict: Our highest recommendation and one of the finest traditional pubs anywhere in central London.

🌊 The Anchor Bankside — Best Riverside Pub

Why We Recommend It

If enjoying a pint overlooking the River Thames sounds like your ideal London evening, The Anchor Bankside should be at the top of your list. Dating back hundreds of years, this iconic riverside pub combines historic charm with one of the best outdoor drinking locations in central London.

Its terrace offers excellent views towards the City skyline and is particularly popular during spring and summer evenings.

Atmosphere

Relaxed during the afternoon and lively after work, The Anchor strikes an excellent balance between traditional pub culture and one of London's best waterfront settings.

What to Order

• ✔ Fuller's London Pride
• ✔ Fish & Chips
• ✔ Classic Burger

Pros

• ✔ Outstanding Thames views.
• ✔ Excellent outdoor seating.
• ✔ Historic riverside location.
• ✔ Wide beer selection.
• ✔ Ideal for sunset drinks.

Potential Drawbacks

• Outdoor tables are difficult to find on sunny weekends.
• Prices are slightly above average because of the location.

Best For: Couples, photographers and visitors looking for riverside drinks.

Editor's Verdict: The best pub near London Bridge for scenic views of the Thames.

🍻 The Market Porter — Best Craft Beer Pub

Why We Recommend It

Situated beside Borough Market, The Market Porter has built a loyal following thanks to its excellent selection of cask ales, rotating guest beers and lively atmosphere. It's one of the best places to experience a traditional London pub while remaining close to one of the city's most famous food markets.

Atmosphere

Friendly, energetic and authentically local. Expect a busy crowd after work, while lunchtime is ideal for pairing a market visit with a quality pint.

What to Order

• ✔ Guest cask ales
• ✔ British pies
• ✔ Scotch eggs

Pros

• ✔ Excellent beer selection.
• ✔ Popular with locals.
• ✔ Beside Borough Market.
• ✔ Traditional interior.
• ✔ Great atmosphere.

Potential Drawbacks

• Standing room only during busy periods.
• Limited seating at peak times.

Best For: Beer enthusiasts and Borough Market visitors.

Editor's Verdict: Our favourite craft beer destination near London Bridge.

🍽️ The Southwark Tavern — Best Gastropub

Why We Recommend It

The Southwark Tavern successfully combines the warmth of a traditional British pub with restaurant-quality food. Visitors wanting a relaxed dinner rather than simply drinks will appreciate the seasonal menu, extensive wine list and quieter atmosphere.

Atmosphere

Comfortable, welcoming and ideal for longer meals. It feels noticeably calmer than some of the area's busier pubs.

What to Order

• ✔ Sunday Roast
• ✔ Steak
• ✔ Seasonal British dishes

Pros

• ✔ Excellent food.
• ✔ Good wine list.
• ✔ Comfortable seating.
• ✔ Friendly service.
• ✔ Five-minute walk from the station.

Potential Drawbacks

• Smaller beer selection than dedicated ale pubs.
• Dinner reservations are recommended.

Best For: Couples, business dinners and relaxed evening meals.

Editor's Verdict: One of the best gastropubs anywhere around London Bridge.

🥘 Dean Swift — Best Sunday Roast

Why We Recommend It

Located close to Tower Bridge, Dean Swift has become one of the area's favourite neighbourhood pubs thanks to its excellent Sunday lunches, rotating craft beers and welcoming atmosphere. It's slightly away from the busiest tourist streets, giving it a more local feel.

Atmosphere

Relaxed, friendly and community-focused. A great option if you want to experience a pub frequented by London residents rather than only visitors.

What to Order

• ✔ Sunday Roast
• ✔ Craft Beer
• ✔ Sticky Toffee Pudding

Pros

• ✔ Outstanding Sunday roast.
• ✔ Friendly neighbourhood atmosphere.
• ✔ Excellent craft beer.
• ✔ Great value.
• ✔ Less touristy than nearby pubs.

Potential Drawbacks

• Slightly longer walk from London Bridge Station.
• Sunday lunch books up quickly.

Best For: Food lovers and visitors wanting a local pub experience.

Editor's Verdict: Worth the short walk for one of London's best traditional Sunday lunches.

Historic Pub vs Riverside Pub: Which Should You Choose?

Our recommendation: Experience both. Begin with The George Inn for London's history before walking to The Anchor Bankside for riverside drinks overlooking the Thames.

Best Pub Near London Bridge vs Borough Market

Many visitors assume Borough Market and London Bridge offer the same experience, but they're quite different. Borough Market is ideal for sampling artisan food and casual bites, while the surrounding pubs provide a more traditional British atmosphere with historic interiors, local ales and a slower pace.

Our recommendation: Visit Borough Market first for lunch before finishing your afternoon or evening at one of the historic pubs featured in this guide.

Best Time to Visit London's Historic Pubs

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the oldest pub near London Bridge?

The George Inn is the area's oldest and most famous historic pub. Dating back to the 17th century, it is London's last surviving galleried coaching inn and is owned by the National Trust.

Which pub has the best river views?

The Anchor Bankside offers some of the finest riverside views in central London, with outdoor seating overlooking the River Thames.

Where can I find the best craft beer?

The Market Porter is our top recommendation for craft beer thanks to its excellent rotating selection of cask ales and guest brews.

Which pub serves the best Sunday roast?

Dean Swift consistently ranks among the best choices for a traditional Sunday roast near London Bridge.

Are these pubs within walking distance of London Bridge Station?

Yes. Every pub featured in this guide can be reached on foot in approximately 2 to 10 minutes from the station.

Are reservations necessary?

Most pubs accept walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for Sunday lunch, Friday evenings and larger groups.

Are the pubs family friendly?

Most welcome families during the daytime and serve full food menus. Evenings tend to be busier and are generally better suited to adults.

Which pub should first-time visitors choose?

We recommend starting with The George Inn for its history and atmosphere before exploring the surrounding riverside pubs.

Continue Planning Your London Trip

• Best Restaurants Near London Bridge →
• Things to Do Near London Bridge →
• Weekend in London Bridge →
• Hotels Near London Bridge Station →
• London Bridge Station Guide →
• Where to Stay in London →
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