A guide to the best pubs of the West End

Enjoy a drink in one of the West End's historic pubs before or after a theatre visit. Cheers!

The British pub is a national institution and it’s always a colourful setting on stage, whether it’s Nancy belting out “Oom-Pah-Pah” in Oliver!, Falstaff and Prince Hal tearing up the town in Shakespeare’s Henry IV, or the gang in The Choir of Man going from larking about to exchanging heartfelt confidences.

In real life, many people have their favourite “local” near to where they live, but there are also plenty of pubs in the West End, whether you’re looking to enjoy a pre-show drink or relax with one afterwards.

Many West End pubs have fascinating histories spanning centuries and have created their own unique folklore. It’s often nigh-on impossible to know what’s true and what’s been embroidered, but who cares!

Beer is the most popular beverage, but it’s no problem if you prefer wine, spirits, or soft drinks. Pub grub is also a staple: think burgers, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie. Unpretentious, filling, and cooked with love.

Read on for our guide to some of the most characterful pubs located around London's theatreland. Don’t miss out before last orders!

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The White Hart

With origins dating back to 1216, The White Hart claims to be London’s oldest established public house (of course, some might argue!) and has seen its share of colourful history from its vantage point on Drury Lane. Allegedly, notorious highwaymen Jack Sheppard and Dick Turpin were once visitors.

These days, it’s a friendly, family-run affair. The White Hart looks diminutive on the outside inside has lovely high ceilings and a refreshingly airy feel, as well as comfy sofas. It also does great Sunday roasts. A favourite of the West End community with its laid-back vibe.

Address: 191 Drury Lane, WC2B 5QD

Prices: ££

Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 12pm-11pm; Thursday 12pm-12am; Friday and Saturday 12pm-2pm; Sunday 12pm-8pm

Nearby theatres: Gillian Lynne Theatre, Fortune Theatre, Duchess Theatre, Aldwych Theatre, Novello Theatre, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Royal Opera House

The Harp

A long-standing Covent Garden favourite. With no fewer than 10 real ale pumps serving classic cask ales and short-term specials, it’s paradise for beer lovers.

The Harp was the first London pub to win the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) National Pub of the Year competition in 2010, and they have continued to win the WEST London CAMRA Award every year that they have been eligible to enter since 2006. It’s often crowded, but that’s all part of the sociable vibe and you can take your drinks into the pleasant back alley when the weather allows.

Address: 47 Chandos Place, WC2N 4HS

Prices: ££

Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday 12pm-11pm; Thursday 12pm-12am; Friday and Saturday 12pm-2am; Sunday 12pm-8pm

Nearby theatres: London Coliseum, Garrick Theatre, Wyndham’s Theatre, Noel Coward Theatre, Duke of York's Theatre

Mr Fogg’s Tavern

There are plenty of Victorian pubs in London, but this one truly embraces old-school Cockney jolliness á la Lionel Bart’s Oliver! with arms wide open (there’s even a Cockney singalong every Thursday evening).

Named after Phileas Fogg, the gentleman explorer hero of Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the venue features an eclectic array of memorabilia (there’s bit of a pirate theme going on!) and a wide choice of gin (check out the underground gin club) and punch as well as the usual beer and wine.

Address: 58 St Martin’s Lane, WC2N 4EA

Prices: £££

Opening hours: Sunday and Monday 12pm-11pm; Tuesday to Saturday 12pm-1am*

Nearby theatres: St Martin’s Theatre, Ambassadors Theatre, Arts Theatre, Wyndham’s Theatre, Garrick Theatre, London Coliseum

The Lamb and Flag

During the Georgian era, The Lamb and Flag’s previous incarnation was a popular venue for bare knuckle fighting and its current Victorian building was a favourite haunt of Charles Dickens. The Lamb and Flag proudly wears its colourful history on its sleeve and with its original Victorian fittings, it holds a maximum three-star rating as a Real Heritage Pub.

The drinks menu is extensive and regularly rotates; there’s a tasty selection of food created from fresh, local produce, plus live jazz on the last Sunday of every month. There’s something for everyone here and it couldn't be more centrally located.

Address: 33 Rose Street, London WC2E 9EB

Prices: ££

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 11am-11pm; Sunday 12pm-10:30pm*

Nearby theatres: Noel Coward Theatre, Duke of York Theatre, Wyndham's Theatre, Garrick Theatre, Ambassadors Theatre, St Martin's Theatre, Royal Opera House, Theatre Royal Drury Lane

The Cross Keys

A classic Victorian-era pub that’s feels much more village-y than Central London. The distinctive foliage-filled exterior, low lighting and refusal to jump on to any trendy bandwagons all contribute to the local vibe.

The mementoes on display include a bust of John Lennon and a napkin signed by Elvis Presley – how did they get here? While they were probably bought at auction, it’s more fun to make up your own story! Best of all, the no-frills food and drinks are very reasonably priced for such a central location.

Address: 31 Endell Street, WC2H 9EB

Prices: £

Opening hours: Monday 11am-11pm and Sunday 12pm-10:30pm

Nearby theatres: Donmar Warehouse, Cambridge Theatre, Ambassadors Theatre, St Martin's Theatre, Arts Theatre

The French House

Despite its name, The French House was founded (as York Minster) by a German couple. During World War II, General Charles de Gaulle fled to London and allegedly wrote his speech "À tous les Français" in the pub. Many artists and writers have been regular visitors, including Dylan Thomas, Lucian Freud, and Augustus John.

By tradition, the pub only serves beer in half-pints, except on 1 April, when the first pint of the day is served by the musician Suggs. Find a cosy corner or join the regulars outside and drink in the history of a bohemian, pre-gentrified Soho (though prices have risen with the times!).

Address: 49 Dean Street, W1D 5BG

Prices: £££

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm-3pm and 6pm-9pm

Nearby theatres: Sondheim Theatre, Gielgud Theatre, Apollo Theatre, Lyric Theatre

Tom Cribb

Named after a 19th-century boxer-turned-publican, the walls of the Tom Cribb are decorated with images and information about the history of boxing, but there’s nothing pugnacious about a visit! Sherlock Holmes fans will be interested to know that this establishment was once referenced by Arthur Conan Doyle.

This super-traditional pub located right by the Harold Pinter Theatre was recently refurbished, but the old-fashioned and homey charm remains very much intact. On the menu, the nourishing pies are a speciality – even better when accompanied by a hearty ale.

Address: 36 Panton Street, SW1Y 4EA

Prices: ££

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 11:30am-11pm; Friday and Saturday 11:30am-12am; Sunday 11:30am-10pm*

Nearby theatres: Harold Pinter Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket, His Majesty’s Theatre

The Ship & Shovell

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Charing Cross Station and a bit quieter than some of the other offerings on this list, this Embankment pub was originally two establishments and is now possibly unique in consisting of two separate buildings on either side of the street (Craven Passage) that are connected underground by a tunnel (where the kitchen and cellar are located).

Both halves are united by an excellent quality beer from Dorset-based family brewers Badger Beers, and there’s also a good selection of food and snacks.

Address: 2 Craven Passage, WC2N 5NF

Prices: ££

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 11am-11pm

Nearby theatres: Adelphi Theatre, Savoy Theatre, Vaudeville Theatre, Playhouse Theatre, Charing Cross Theatre

Photo: Julia Rank