Private Walking Tour: Historic and Hidden Pubs of London

Discover London’s Hidden Pub Gems with a Private Guided Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of history, good stories, and a pint or two, then the Private Walking Tour: Historic and Hidden Pubs of London promises a charming way to experience the city’s drinking culture. This personalized tour takes you through some of London’s most storied taverns, each with its own unique charm and tales. It’s a fantastic way to combine sightseeing, history, and local pub life all in one go.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the private guide’s expertise. They’re not just leading a walk—they’re sharing stories, insights, and little-known facts about each pub’s past. Plus, the tour is flexible: you get to decide where to spend more time and which pubs to linger in. Our favorite part? The chance to explore some of London’s oldest and most eccentric pubs without feeling rushed.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour involves walking and some Tube travel, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet and with urban exploration. Also, since the tour is price-per-group, it’s particularly good value for couples or small groups wanting an intimate experience. If you enjoy history, local character, and a relaxed pace, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Personalized experience tailored to your preferences and pace
• Visits to up to five historic and hidden pubs
• Knowledgeable private guide with rich stories and tips
• Flexible schedule with two departure times
• Includes local insights on other must-visit pubs in London
• Walking and some Tube travel involved, so good for those comfortable on their feet

An In-Depth Look at the London Pub Tour

This private tour, offered by Richards Tours, begins at Aldgate East Station with a warm welcome from your guide. From there, it’s a relaxed stroll through some of London’s most iconic and eccentric pubs—each one with its own story to tell. The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching outing.

The first stop, The Mayflower Pub, is a waterside tavern dating back to the 1500s. Here, you can imagine sailors and explorers who once moored outside, including Christopher Jones’ ship, the Mayflower, which carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620. The pub still keeps alive the maritime tradition, allowing visitors to sign the register if they’re descendants of the original Mayflower crew—something highlighted by several reviewers as a touching detail. One guest noted: “The history here is palpable, and signing the register was a special connection to the past.”

Next, you’ll visit The George, a Tudor galleried pub that’s the last of its kind in London. With its historic connections to William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Winston Churchill, this pub feels like stepping into a living museum. Its courtyard may have hosted performances in Shakespeare’s time—something visitors can almost visualize as they gaze at the period features and eccentric clientele. A review mentions, “Shakespeare might have performed plays here, and the atmosphere still hints at centuries of stories.”

The third stop, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, is a must-see for lovers of atmospheric pubs. Its cellars date to the 1200s, and the upstairs rooms look largely untouched since the 18th century. Imagine curling up by a fireplace with a pint, just like Samuel Johnson or Garrick did. The stuffed parrot, Polly, sitting above the bar, is an amusing highlight—an odd but memorable feature that adds to the pub’s character. Reviewers love its “Dickensian charm,” with one saying, “The wooden paneling and fireplace create a truly authentic feel.”

Ye Olde Mitre, a tiny, tucked-away pub with a history that probably predates Queen Elizabeth I, is next. Its door is famously supported by a tree—an image that invites curiosity—and its location in Hatton Garden hints at a bustling, perhaps slightly seedier past. Many find it a charming spot that has appeared in films like Snatch; a guest noted, “You feel like you’re stepping into a film set, and the local vibe is genuinely London old-school.”

Finally, the tour wraps up at Cittie of Yorke, a historic pub dating back to the 1400s. Its interior, with wooden booths and a triangular stove, invites cozy conversations and reflection on the pub’s long history. The cellar visits, when available, are a treat, and it’s likely you’ll find yourself chatting about the different eras this pub has survived through. One reviewer appreciated the “warm, welcoming atmosphere,” perfect for winding down.

What To Expect From the Tour

Guided storytelling is one of the tour’s strongest points. Our guide, Richard, was praised for his wealth of knowledge and engaging storytelling style. According to reviews, he shared fascinating snippets, like the legend of Polly the parrot and the connection to the Hellfire Club, making each stop much more than just a photo opportunity. You’ll also receive local tips on other pubs and areas to explore after the tour—perfect if you want to continue your pub-hopping adventure independently.

The pace of the tour is flexible. If you find a pub particularly inviting, you can linger longer—a perk noted by those who prefer a slower, more immersive experience. The two departure times help fit the tour into different schedules, whether you’re a morning person or want to start your evening with a drink and stories.

Transportation-wise, most of the tour is on foot, starting from Aldgate East and ending at Temple Station, with some Tube travel included when moving between neighborhoods. The walking is manageable, and the entire route covers some of London’s oldest and most characterful areas.

Pricing at $245.51 for a group (up to one person, but more can be arranged) isn’t cheap, but it’s quite good value for a private experience that combines history, local culture, and tailored attention. Since alcohol isn’t included, you can choose your own drinks at each pub—this allows you to tailor the experience to your tastes and budget.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Based on reviews, guides are a highlight. Richard, in particular, is praised for his depth of knowledge and friendly manner. He not only shares historical stories but also personal insights that make the experience memorable. For instance, one guest loved hearing about the original purpose of the pubs and how some of them survived wars, fires, and urban change.

You’ll love the atmosphere in each pub—from the maritime charm of The Mayflower to the Tudor elegance of The George. Many of these venues have retained their period features, making each visit feel like stepping back in time. The stuffed Polly parrot and the tree-supported doorway at Ye Olde Mitre are quirky visual highlights that add to the fun.

A key advantage of this tour is customization. If you find a particular pub especially charming, you can spend longer there, or ask your guide for additional recommendations—useful for discovering lesser-known local favorites or hidden gems.

The tour’s affordability can be seen in the value of personalized sightseeing—you’re not just following a crowd but exploring at your own pace with someone who truly knows the ins and outs of London’s pub scene.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, pub enthusiasts, and those who enjoy intimate, curated tours. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more personal insight into London’s drinking culture. If you’re interested in stories behind the buildings, legendary patrons, and historic characters, you’ll find this tour engaging.

While it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues due to the walking involved or for those seeking a boisterous, large group experience, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who appreciate authentic, relaxed, and informative outings. Highly recommended for those who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local life in London’s historic pubs.

Final Thoughts

The Private Walking Tour: Historic and Hidden Pubs of London offers a rich, personalized glimpse into one of the city’s most colorful aspects—its pubs. You’ll walk away with more than just photos; you’ll gain a deeper understanding of London’s social history, quirky traditions, and legendary characters. The guides’ knowledge and the flexible pace make for a memorable and genuinely enjoyable experience.

If you love history, charming old venues, and discovering secret corners of London, this tour is a splendid way to spend part of your trip. It balances storytelling, authentic atmosphere, and the chance to sample some of London’s best-kept pub secrets—all at a price that’s fair considering the intimacy and expertise involved.

Questions & Answers

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, the minimum age is 18 years, primarily because alcohol is involved and the focus is on pub history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time to explore and enjoy each pub without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can purchase your own drinks at each pub, allowing you to choose your favorites and budget accordingly.

What transportation is involved?
Most of the tour is on foot, starting at Aldgate East Station and ending at Temple Station, with some Tube travel involved if needed.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, so you can decide where to spend more time or ask your guide for additional pub recommendations.

Is this tour good for larger groups?
The price is per group (up to one person), but larger groups can be accommodated by booking additional slots or arranging a custom experience.

Overall, this private pub tour is an excellent way to combine London sightseeing with local flavor and history. It’s perfect for those who love a relaxed pace, authentic venues, and stories that bring the city’s past to life.