The Great East London Pub Crawl!

Discovering London’s Nightlife: The Great East London Pub Crawl Review

Our review of The Great East London Pub Crawl provides a detailed look at what travelers can expect from this guided tour through Shoreditch’s famed bar scene. Priced at just over $34 per person, this two-hour crawl promises to introduce you to some of the coolest pubs, cocktail bars, and craft beer spots in East London’s most trendy neighborhood. While we haven’t personally participated, an analysis of reviews and the itinerary reveals a tour designed for those eager to experience local London nightlife beyond the tourist trail.

What we appreciate about this experience is the chance to visit 12 distinct venues in just a couple of hours, each offering its own unique vibe. From traditional pubs to stylish cocktail bars, the tour covers a wide spectrum of East London’s diverse drinking scene. One of the standout features is the opportunity to meet both locals and fellow travelers, adding an authentic social element that’s often missing from solo pub visits. However, a notable consideration is that the tour’s overall rating is moderate, partly due to some logistical hiccups like cancellations and variable guide experiences.

This pub crawl is best suited for social butterflies, nightlife enthusiasts, and curious visitors looking to explore London’s East End in an engaging, organized way. If you prefer a structured night out that combines sightseeing with social drinking, this could be an enjoyable option—especially if you’re prepared for the lively, sometimes unpredictable, ambiance of Shoreditch’s nightlife.

Key Points

• Vibrant Neighborhood: Shoreditch is a hub for eclectic bars, craft beers, and lively atmospheres.
• Wide Venue Selection: 12 pubs, bars, and venues, each offering something different.
• Authentic Local Feel: Opportunity to mingle with Londoners and sidestep tourist-heavy areas.
• Flexible Experience: Mobile tickets allow for easy booking and seamless entry.
• Tour Length & Price: Just 2 hours for $34, making it a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Mixed Reviewer Feedback: Guides and experiences vary, affecting overall satisfaction.

Exploring the Itinerary: What Each Stop Offers

Starting at The Craft Beer Co. Old Street, guests are introduced to a laid-back pub that’s perfect for craft beer lovers. Known for its good brew selection and cool ambiance, it sets a relaxed tone for the evening. The review mentions that the venue features a good beer selection and a trendy vibe, which makes it a great first stop to warm up.

Next, the group heads to The Angel, a traditional “red-brick” pub with an unpretentious feel. It’s a classic East London boozer boasting big-screen sports and a pool table, ideal for those wanting a casual pub environment. One reviewer appreciated the authenticity here, calling it a “classic pub” experience that feels genuinely local.

Moving on to Three Crowns, we find a more airy, inviting spot with whitewashed walls and wood paneling. The pub offers seasonal British fare and craft beer, providing a taste of the area’s culinary and brewing culture. The review highlights that, despite some of the area’s dirtier, graffiti-laden streets, the pub itself remains a cozy, welcoming refuge.

The stop at Bounce Old Street is more playful—famous for its ping-pong venues rather than traditional drinks. While the experience of playing table tennis might be a fun break from drinking, it’s important to note that venue entry is not included in the tour, so it’s an optional activity.

Old Fountain offers a classic pub experience with a rotating selection of cask ales, a food menu, and a roof terrace. Travelers looking to enjoy a relaxed drink with the option of outdoor space will find this appealing. One reviewer appreciated its rotating cask ale selection and the chance to unwind outdoors.

Next, the Old Blue Last is described as a refurbished East End pub that doubles as a live music venue upstairs. It attracts a trendier, younger crowd, making it a lively spot to soak in local nightlife and perhaps catch a gig.

Old Street Records offers a lively atmosphere with live bands, pizza, and cocktails. This venue seems to blend music and food well, appealing to those looking for a more energetic environment.

The Golden Bee stands out with its stylistic decor—mirror ceilings, a colorful lit roof terrace, and a lengthy cocktail menu. It’s a good stop for those wanting a more upscale, stylish cocktail experience.

Callooh Callay Bar is themed around Lewis Carroll’s whimsical world, with a low-lit interior and inventive cocktails. Reviewers note the long cocktail menu and creative drinks, making it a highlight for cocktail enthusiasts.

The tour continues to The Ten Bells, an iconic pub offering a traditional three-floor setting with beer, wine, and cocktails. Its storied history and classic pub vibe make it a favorite among those interested in London’s historic drinking spots.

The Eagle is a Victorian pub with a courtyard garden and a weekly quiz, providing a more relaxed, community-focused environment.

Finally, the tour wraps up at 222 Shoreditch High St, a brewpub serving craft beers and Chicago-style eats like pizzas and subs. This spot combines great beer with satisfying food, perfect for winding down and sharing stories of the night.

Practical Aspects: What to Expect

Tour Duration & Group Size: Lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour is designed for groups of up to 20 people. This size strikes a good balance—small enough to feel intimate but large enough for lively social interactions.

Price & Value: At $34.45, the price is competitive for an organized pub crawl in London. It covers the guided experience, which includes visiting 12 different venues—each offering a different vibe and drink selection. While venue entry is generally free, some activities like bounce ping-pong are pay-as-you-go.

Start Time & Meeting Point: The tour kicks off at 6:00 pm from Old Street. Being near public transportation makes it easy to reach, and the mobile ticket format simplifies the process.

Guide & Experience: One review praised Ollie, a guide who knew her stuff and made the experience more enjoyable. However, the overall review scores indicate that guide experiences may vary, and some participants had less favorable encounters.

Scheduling & Cancellation: The tour can be booked 52 days in advance on average, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Notably, there was at least one cancellation on the day of the event, highlighting the importance of confirming your reservation closer to the date.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Insights

While the overall rating sits at 3.5/5, the detailed reviews provide some helpful nuances. For instance, one reviewer appreciated the guide’s friendliness but found the initial meeting spot in a “dark alley” with graffiti less appealing, suggesting that the neighborhood’s gritty side is part of the charm for some but may be off-putting for others.

Another reviewer, Ana, described her experience as “amazing,” praising Ollie for her local knowledge and the variety of pubs visited. She highlighted that the tour was a “really cool” way to discover Shoreditch’s hidden gems.

One participant, James, summed it up as a “great little pub crawl”, mentioning they got a good taste of different places and appreciated the guide’s professionalism. Conversely, a less positive review from Robert pointed out a cancellation on the day, which can happen with tours that rely on a minimum number of guests.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a fun, social introduction to East London’s nightlife, this pub crawl offers a practical way to explore multiple spots in a short time. The diversity of venues—from traditional pubs to lively music bars—means you’ll get a well-rounded experience of Shoreditch’s drinking culture.

However, the experience’s quality may depend heavily on the guide and the group’s dynamics. Price-wise, it’s a cost-effective way to visit numerous venues without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Still, be prepared for the possibility of last-minute cancellations and variable guide experiences.

This tour is best for those who enjoy guided social outings, want to meet fellow travelers or locals, and are comfortable with a lively, sometimes gritty nightlife scene. If you’re after a more curated, polished experience or want to avoid the more “raw” parts of Shoreditch, you might consider alternative options or explore the neighborhood independently.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
The pub crawl lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet lively introduction to Shoreditch’s bars.

How many venues are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit 12 different bars, pubs, and venues, each offering a unique atmosphere and drink options.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, the tour visits venues where drinks are available, and the tour price covers your entry. However, some activities like bounce ping-pong require additional payment if you choose to participate.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but remember to bring ID if you plan to drink alcohol, and the tour is designed for those 18+.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, bookings can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Old Street, London EC1Y 1BE, a convenient location near public transit.

Are tips included?
Tipping is not included in the tour price; any gratuities are at your discretion.

What is the guide like?
Guide experiences vary, but at least one reviewer mentioned Ollie, who was knowledgeable and friendly. Your experience may depend on the guide on the day.

To sum it up, The Great East London Pub Crawl offers an accessible, engaging way to soak up Shoreditch’s vibrant nightlife with a friendly guide. While it’s not without its quirks, this tour provides a lively, authentic taste of London’s East End—perfect for social travelers and those wanting to discover hidden local gems without the stress of planning each stop independently. Just be prepared for the neighborhood’s raw edges, and you’ll likely have a memorable night.