Pub Crawl Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect London Pub Night
If you want to see the city’s best bars without getting lost, a solid pub crawl itinerary is the answer. It saves you time, keeps the night safe, and makes sure you hit the spots locals love. Below is a simple plan you can copy or tweak to fit your own vibe.
Choosing the Right Route
Start in a neighborhood that’s easy to reach by tube or bus. Shoreditch, Covent Garden, and Soho are popular because they have lots of pubs close together. Pick one area and map out three to five stops that are within a 5‑minute walk of each other. This way you don’t waste time on travel and you stay in the party mood.
Example route for a first‑timer:
- Stop 1 – The Rook & Bishop (Shoreditch): Cheap pints and a relaxed vibe to kick things off.
- Stop 2 – The Old Blue Last: Live music, a larger crowd, and a chance to try a craft brew.
- Stop 3 – The Alchemist: Known for theatrical cocktails, perfect for a mid‑night switch.
- Stop 4 – The Blind Beggar: Historic pub with a quieter feel, good for winding down.
- Stop 5 – The Queen’s Head: Late‑night snacks and a final drink before heading home.
If you prefer a guided experience, look for tours that already have a set itinerary. They usually include a mix of classic pubs and hidden gems, plus a driver or a designated sober guide. Booking a guided crawl can be as cheap as £15 per person.
Tips for a Smooth Crawl
1. Set a start time and stick to it. Most pubs open around 5 pm, so beginning at 6 pm gives you plenty of hours without staying out too late.
2. Carry a small bottle of water. Hydration helps you keep a clear head and reduces the hangover risk.
3. Pay with a card or pre‑loaded travel card. Many pubs accept contactless, and it’s faster than digging for cash.
4. Watch your drink limits. A good rule is one drink per hour, especially if you’re walking between stops.
5. Plan a safe ride home. Use a night bus, the tube’s last service, or a rideshare app. If you’re on a guided tour, the driver will take care of it.
6. Take notes. Jot down the name of a bar you liked. It’s easy to forget and you’ll thank yourself later when you look for a new spot.
7. Try something new at each stop. Order a local ale at the first pub, a cocktail at the second, and a traditional cider at the third. It keeps the night interesting.
By following this itinerary and the quick tips, you’ll get a taste of London’s nightlife without the stress of figuring it out on the fly. Whether you’re doing the crawl solo, with friends, or on a guided group, the key is a clear plan, a safe way home, and a willingness to explore different atmospheres.
Ready to hit the streets? Grab a map, pick your starting point, and enjoy the night. London’s pubs are waiting, and with the right itinerary, you’ll leave with great stories and maybe a new favorite spot.
