If you’ve just moved to London or are a long‑time resident looking for a fresh escape, the city’s hidden pubs offer a perfect weekend break. These tucked‑away spots are often less than a ten‑minute walk from a tube station, yet they feel worlds away from the usual tourist trail. Below is a practical guide to five of the best undiscovered pubs, plus a quick note on how a little online entertainment can round off your night.
1. The Lamb’s Head, Hackney
Located on a quiet cul‑de‑sac, The Lamb’s Head has a 200‑year‑old brick façade that hides a cosy, low‑lighting interior. The bar hosts a rotating selection of local craft ales; last month, the “Hackney IPA” was a crowd favourite, averaging a 4.3/5 rating on RateBeer. If you arrive after 8 pm, you’ll find the regulars swapping stories over a pint of Guinness, while the kitchen serves a simple yet delicious fish and chips that finishes in under fifteen minutes.
2. The White Horse, Battersea
Just off the river, The White Horse is a former Victorian coaching inn that now boasts a rooftop garden. The garden’s seating is limited—only 18 tables—so arriving before 7 pm guarantees a spot. The pub’s signature drink, the “Riverbank”, is a gin and elderflower mix that tastes like a summer breeze. The bar staff are friendly enough to explain the difference between a dry and a sweet sherry, a small but useful tip for newcomers.
3. The Old Bell, Islington
With a discreet wooden sign and a door that creaks on its own, The Old Bell feels like stepping into another era. Its real draw is the selection of cask ales, most of which are sourced from micro‑breweries within a 50‑kilometre radius. The pub’s “Beer of the Month” is announced on a chalkboard outside, and this month’s pick, a barrel of “East London Stout”, has a 4.7/5 rating on Untappd. The interior is dimly lit, with exposed beams and a fireplace that keeps the space warm even on the chilliest evenings.
4. The Gipsy, Camden
Hidden behind a brick wall that looks like a plain wall at first glance, The Gipsy is a speakeasy‑style venue that opens its doors at 9 pm. The entrance is a simple wooden door marked only with a brass plaque that reads “Enter Here”. Inside, the décor is eclectic: vintage posters, mismatched chairs, and a small stage for live jazz. The bar serves a house cocktail called the “Camden Cooler”, a mix of gin, lemon, and a splash of elderflower liqueur that’s surprisingly refreshing.
5. The Old Vicarage, Greenwich
Perched on a hill overlooking the Thames, The Old Vicarage offers a panoramic view that’s worth the extra five minutes of walking. The pub’s menu is rooted in traditional British fare; the “Sunday Roast” is a local legend, with a 4.6/5 rating on Google Reviews. The bar also offers a selection of ciders, including a seasonal apple cider that tastes like freshly picked orchard fruit.
After a day of discovering these hidden gems, you might want to keep the night going with a bit of online gaming. Many people enjoy a quick session of casual betting or virtual casino games to unwind before heading home. If you’re curious about a platform that blends entertainment with a touch of excitement, Ninewin offers a range of games that can be played from the comfort of your sofa.
Planning Your Route
All five pubs are accessible by public transport. The nearest tube station for each is listed below:
- The Lamb’s Head – Hackney Central (overground)
- The White Horse – Battersea Power Station (tube)
- The Old Bell – Angel (tube)
- The Gipsy – Camden Town (tube)
- The Old Vicarage – Greenwich (river bus)
Using a map app, you can create a loop that minimizes walking time. For example, starting at The Lamb’s Head, you can hop on the Overground to Angel, then the tube to Camden Town, and finish with a river bus to Greenwich. This route takes roughly two hours of travel plus a few minutes at each pub, keeping the whole outing under six hours.
Final Thoughts
London’s hidden pubs are more than just drinking spots; they’re living pieces of history, each with its own story and atmosphere. By choosing venues that are off the beaten path, you’ll experience a more intimate side of the city that many tourists miss. Pack a small bag, bring a reusable mug if you’re a fan of the local beer scene, and enjoy a weekend that feels both adventurous and comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these pubs hidden?
They’re tucked into quiet streets, often with no obvious signage, and are close to tube stations but off the main tourist routes.
How do I get to the Lamb’s Head in Hackney?
Take the Overground to Hackney Wick, then a short walk down the cul‑de‑sac past the local shops to the pub’s entrance.
Are these pubs open all week?
Most are open from Thursday to Sunday, but hours vary—check each pub’s website or call ahead.
