Why You Should Care (Spoiler: The Pints Are Great)
The Tower of London isn’t just a fortress of legends and beheadings—it’s also the perfect backdrop for a post-tour pint… or ten. If you’re here, you probably want to skip the “how many tourists have you beheaded” tour and grab a proper ale instead. Lucky for you, we’ve done the hard work of sniffing out the best pubs by Tower of London that’ll make your history lesson just a little more liquid.
Top 5 Pubs That’ll Make History Tasteful
1. The Tower Inn (3 min from the Tower)
Why it’s a banger: This pub has been around since the 18th century, which is *literally* when the Tower was still a prison. It’s got a moat, cobblestones, and a vibe that screams “I survived the Black Death.” Pair that with ales that taste like they were brewed by a 17th-century monk in a robe, and you’ve got a combo that’ll make your history teacher weep.
- Pro tip: Ask for the Tower Porter. It’s a deep, chocolatey brew that’ll make you feel like you’re sipping on the walls of the Tower itself.
2. The Gun (6 min from the Tower)
Why it’s a banger: If you want to pretend you’re a pirate who just plundered a Spanish galleon, this is your spot. The Gun has live music every night, and the staff will probably call you “mate” enough to make you question your life choices. Bonus: They’ve got a secret garden that’s hidden so well, you’ll need a metal detector to find it.
- Pro tip: Try the Ghost of Henry VIII cocktail. It’s rum-based, slightly haunted, and 100% not haunted by actual ghosts (probably).
3. The Queen’s Head (8 min from the Tower)
Why it’s a banger: This pub is like a Victorian time capsule. Think gas lamps, dusty books, and a barman who’ll ask you, “You here for the Tower, sir?” in a voice that sounds like it’s from the same century as the Tower itself. Their cask ales are so good, you’ll forget the Tower even exists.
- Pro tip: Order the “Beheading Special”—a dark, bitter ale that’ll make you feel like you’re the one doing the beheading.
4. The Bishop of London (9 min from the Tower)
Why it’s a banger: This one’s got a history of hosting bishops, spies, and probably a few drunk monks. The beer here is brewed on-site, which is impressive considering the last time someone brewed on-site, it was probably in a medieval cauldron. The vibe is cozy, the beer is bold, and the staff will probably know you by name after your third pint.
- Pro tip: Go for the Bishop’s Brew—it’s a smooth, citrusy pale ale that’ll make you forget you’re in London’s most historic neighborhood.
5. The Ship (10 min from the Tower)
Why it’s a banger: This pub is basically a time machine to the 1800s. The Ship has a real ship’s wheel inside, which is either a clever marketing ploy or a sign the owner has a thing for maritime puns. Their beer is all local, their food is pub-grub heaven, and the staff will probably call you “sailor” even if you’ve never been on a boat.
- Pro tip: Try the “Crown Nailer”—a hoppy IPA that’ll make you feel like you’re sailing the Thames with a six-pack in hand.
Why These Pubs Crush the Competition
Let’s be real: The Tower of London is a tourist trap. But these pubs? They’re the secret weapon in your arsenal. Whether you’re a history buff, a beer connoisseur, or just someone who wants to avoid the “I’ve been beheaded” tour, these pubs deliver:
- History with a side of ale—because who wants to remember the Tower’s darker days without liquid courage?
- Pub grub that won’t shame your ancestors—think hearty pies, fish and chips, and bangers that’ll make your grandpa proud.
- Staff who know more than your tour guide—they’ve probably heard every Tower story at least 50 times.
Pro Tips for Pub Crawling Like a Local
1. Start early: If you wait until 5 PM, the pubs near the Tower will be packed with tourists who think the Tower is a “cool place to take a photo.” Beat the rush and grab a pint before noon. Trust us, you’ll thank us when you’re the only one who knows where the good beer is.
2. Bring a map: The streets near the Tower are a maze. If you get lost, just follow the smell of hops and yeast. You can’t miss it.
3. Order ahead: Some pubs have a “beer only” policy for tourists. If you’re planning on getting tipsy, call ahead and tell them you’re “historically inclined.” They’ll probably let you in.
FAQs: Pub Nerds Answer the Big Questions
- Which pub is closest to the Tower? The Tower Inn is 3 minutes away. It’s like the pub version of a 3-star Michelin rating—except with more beheadings and less Michelin.
- Any pubs with live music? The Gun has live music every night. The staff are so good at it, you’ll probably forget you’re in a pub and start thinking you’re in a medieval tavern.
- Best pub for vegan-friendly options? The Bishop of London has a vegan ale that’s so good, even the Tower’s ravens would probably give it a thumbs up.
Why You Should Care (Again, Spoiler: The Pints Are Great)
Look, we get it. You’re here for the history. But let’s be honest: you’re also here for the beer. These pubs near Tower of London aren’t just places to grab a drink—they’re time machines, story tellers, and probably the best way to avoid the “I’m here for the Tower” tourist trap.
If you’re a pub owner reading this, check out our strategies for turning your pub into a must-visit destination. And if you’re a beer lover, learn how to brew your own so you can recreate these pints at home (minus the beheadings).
Still not convinced? Contact us and we’ll send you a T-shirt that says “Pubs Near Tower of London: 5/5.” It’s 100% cotton, 0% history, and 1000% puns.
And if you’re thinking of selling your beer online, Dropt.beer is the place to go. Because let’s face it: If you’re brewing a beer that tastes like the Tower of London, you need to get it in front of people who’ll appreciate it.
Final Call to Action: Don’t Behead Your Chances
So what are you waiting for? Grab a pint, stroll the streets, and remember: the Tower’s got history. These pubs? They’ve got heart. And beer. Lots of beer.
