Why Trust Reddit’s Pub Recommendations? (Spoiler: You Should)

If you’ve ever spent more than five minutes on Reddit, you know the internet’s most chaotic barista of a community is full of folks who love arguing about the “best” everything—from pizza toppings to whether pineapple belongs in a cocktail. But when it comes to pubs in London? The r/london Reddit thread might just be the best unofficial travel guide to pubs since the invention of the pub quiz. Home to everything from hidden speakeasies to pubs with a view of Big Ben’s arse, let’s dive into the top spots that have Reddit users buzzing.

1. The Spaniard—Where G&Ts & History Collide

Located at 20 Fleet St, London EC4M 7RG, The Spaniard isn’t just a pub—it’s a time machine. This Fleet Street legend has been serving up gin since 1670, long before the internet could meme about it. Reddit’s top comment? “They’ve survived the plague, revolutions, and the 2012 Olympics. If it’s good enough for Samuel Johnson, it’s good enough for me.”

• Why it’s a Reddit favorite: It’s one of the few pubs where you can sip a G&T while pretending you’re in a BBC history documentary.
• Pro tip: Ask for the “Samuel Johnson’s Chair” spot near the fireplace. The ghosts don’t charge extra.

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2. The Churchill Arms—Pub Food & Politics, 24/7

At 41 Upper Woburn Place, London WC1H 0NL, The Churchill Arms is the pub where you can eat a full English and debate Brexit all in one sitting. Reddit’s top thread on the pub reads like a sitcom: “It’s got everything—historic photos of Churchill (obviously), sticky toffee pudding, and a clientele that’s 90% tourists with a 10% chance of running into a real-life ex-PM.”

• Reddit’s consensus: “If you don’t like it, you’re either not a fan of history or pub food.”
• Ask for: The “Churchill Arms” beer. It’s a stout named after the man himself, and it’s as bold as his speeches.

3. The Coach & Horses—Shoreditch’s Pretend-Alternative Pub

Located at 78 Dalston Lane, London E8 3DP, this Shoreditch staple is where hipsters go to pretend they’re not hipsters. Reddit’s top comment? “It’s like a pub made by a committee of 20-somethings who forgot what a ‘local’ is.”

• What it’s known for: Craft beer on tap, a menu of “avocado toast with a side of irony,” and a vibe that’s 90% Instagrammable.
• Reddit’s warning: “Bring cash. The QR code ‘tech’ works about 30% of the time.”

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4. The Crown and Sceptre—Where Royalty (and Reddit) Hangs Out

This Notting Hill gem at 115 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 3QY is so iconic, even the Queen’s corgis probably had a drink here. Reddit’s top thread is full of comments like, “It’s the only pub where you can say you’ve been ‘in the area’ while also being in the actual area.”

• Reddit’s verdict: “The vibe is so ‘upper-class’ that the waiters probably know your life story by your third pint.”
• Pro tip: Ask for the “Royal Garden” room. It’s got views of the garden and a 50% chance of seeing a celebrity.

5. The Hope & Anchor—Fitzrovia’s ‘Unofficial’ Pub

At 210–212 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7QB, this pub is so legendary that even the locals can’t agree on what to call it. Reddit’s top comment? “It’s like the pub version of a Wikipedia page—half facts, half urban legend.”

• Reddit’s warning: “Bring a friend. The bar is so crowded that you’ll need someone to elbow you into a seat.”
• Ask for: The “Hope & Anchor” bitter. It’s a pub staple and the only beer that can survive the 10-minute wait for a pint.

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How to Avoid Tourist Traps (According to Reddit)

Reddit’s top tip for finding good pubs? “Don’t walk into a place with a queue unless the queue is made of locals.” Here are their top 3 red flags:

1. Too many selfies: If the pub has more filters than a TikTok influencer, it’s probably overrated.
2. Overpriced ‘artisan’ beer: If it costs £10 and tastes like “experience,” you’re paying for the vibe, not the brew.
3. No seating: If there’s no room to sit, you’re just there to take pictures and leave.

FAQs: London Pubs According to Reddit

1. Are there any pubs Reddit actually agrees on?

Yes! The Spaniard and The Crown and Sceptre are the only pubs that haven’t been memed into oblivion by Reddit’s comment section.

2. How do I find pubs Reddit hasn’t ruined?

Ask a local. Or just walk into any place without a sign in Times New Roman font. If the sign is in Comic Sans, run.

3. Can I get a pub listed on Reddit’s list?

Yes! Just post a photo with a witty caption like “This pub has better beer than my ex.” Reddit’s algorithm loves drama.

Final Call to Action: Don’t Just Read—Drink (Responsibly)

London’s pubs are like the internet: half myth, half magic, and 100% worth the chaos. If you’re feeling inspired, check out our pub design services to create your own spot that’ll go viral faster than a meme about Brexit.

Still thirsty for more? Visit Strategies.beer for guides on making your own beer, or join our beer business growth program to turn your pub into the next Reddit legend. And if you ever want to sell your beer online? Dropt.beer is your one-stop shop for making your brews disappear from shelves (in the best way).