After‑Hours Pubs in London: Keep the Night Going

If you’re tired of the lights going out at 11 pm, you’re not alone. London hides a bunch of pubs that stay open well past the usual curfew, letting you sip a pint, chat with strangers, or just enjoy the night vibe without rushing home. This guide shows you where to go, how to find the spots, and what to watch out for so you can make the most of every late‑night hour.

Top Late‑Night Spots That Never Sleep

The Prince (Westminster) – Open until 2 am on weekdays and 3 am on weekends, this historic tavern serves straight‑up ales and a solid food menu. The low‑key interior makes it perfect for winding down after a club night.

Spaniards Inn (Hampstead) – One of the oldest pubs in the city, it stays open until 1 am on weekdays and 2 am on Friday and Saturday. The cozy fireplace and garden give a relaxed feel that’s great for late‑night conversations.

King’s Head (Camden) – Known for its rock‑filled crowd, this spot pushes the doors open until 3 am on weekends. Live music spills onto the street, so you’ll never run out of energy.

The Coach & Horses (Soho) – A 24‑hour legend tucked in a side street. Order a classic gin cocktail, grab a late snack, and you’ve got a reliable "any‑time" base for any night owl.

The Old Red Lion (Fitzrovia) – Keeps the bar running until 2 am, with cheap pints and a small stage for impromptu performances. It’s cheap, lively, and easy to find.

How to Find Hidden After‑Hours Gems

Most hidden pubs don’t advertise their late hours. Here’s how to track them down:

• Use the right apps. Google Maps, Yelp, and the “Late Night London” app let you filter by "open now" and set a time range.
• Ask locals. Bartenders, taxi drivers, and even the bartender at your favorite daytime spot can point you to the next hidden door.
• Check pub‑crawl guides. The "London Pub Crawl Guide" article on this site highlights routes that include after‑hours venues, so use it as a roadmap.
• Explore specific neighborhoods. Shoreditch, Soho, and Camden have clusters of 24‑hour or late‑closing pubs. Walk the streets after the main venues close and you’ll often stumble onto a quiet door with a neon sign.
• Look for "late night" signs. Many pubs display a simple "Open Late" board on the pavement. Spotting one can save you a few extra minutes of searching.

Safety matters, too. Stick to well‑lit streets, keep an eye on your drink, and plan your transport ahead. Late‑night buses and the Night Tube run on limited routes, so checking the schedule before you head out avoids getting stranded.

Now you’ve got a solid list of pubs that stay open and a cheat‑sheet for finding even more. Whether you’re hunting a quiet pint after a gig or need a place to keep the party alive till sunrise, London’s after‑hours pubs have you covered. Grab a friend, step out after the crowds thin, and discover the city’s night side that most people miss.