City of London Historic Pub Tour with Beers and Bar Snacks

If you’re a fan of history, good beer, and authentic local vibes, the City of London Historic Pub Tour with Beers and Bar Snacks could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a genuine taste of London’s past — with plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy a pint or two.

What really stands out about this experience are the visits to three pubs that date back before the Great Fire of London — a chance to sip in venues with stories that stretch back hundreds of years. Plus, there’s a modern pub thrown into the mix, offering a stunning interior that balances history with contemporary flair. The inclusion of local snacks and expert beer advice makes the tour not just about history, but also about enjoying some quality drinks and bites.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is pretty structured — lasting about 2.5 hours with scheduled stops. If you’re someone who prefers a more flexible or extensive pub crawl, this might feel a bit constrained, especially since the focus is on four specific venues in a relatively tight area. Also, since you’ll be visiting licensed pubs, you’ll need to be 18 or over, which isn’t surprising but good to keep in mind if you’re traveling with younger friends or family.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for those who want a curated experience combining history, good beer, and London’s iconic drinking culture. If you enjoy stories behind the pubs, tasting a variety of local brews, and having a lively guide to enhance the experience, this one could be a real highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• Historic Pubs: Visit three venues that date back before the Great Fire, offering centuries of stories.
• Local Beers & Snacks: Enjoy a beer at each pub along with traditional bar snacks, adding flavor to your journey.
• Expert Guide: Learn about London’s pub history and beer styles from a knowledgeable guide, enhancing your appreciation.
• Prime Location: The tour starts near Cannon Street Station and finishes at Leadenhall Market, placing you in the heart of the City.
• Time & Value: At $101 per person for 2.5 hours, this is a compact but engaging experience blending history, drinks, and culture.
• Age & ID: You’ll need valid ID and be 18+ to partake, as these are licensed premises.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point at Cannon Street Station

The tour kicks off right outside Cannon Street Station — a convenient spot for many travelers. Meeting outside the station is simple, and since the first pub is just a few meters away, there’s no long walk before you start soaking in London’s historic pub scene. This proximity makes it an easy, low-stress beginning, especially if you’re arriving by train or tube.

The First Three Pubs: Living History

The tour’s main draw is undoubtedly the three pubs that predate the Great Fire of London (1666). Imagine stepping into venues that have witnessed centuries of London life, from royal visits to industrial upheaval. These pubs are more than just watering holes; they’re tangible pieces of history.

Your guide will share stories and fun facts about each pub, making the experience both educational and engaging. One review describes the guide as “super fun to hang out with” and appreciated the detailed stories and fun facts. Expect to learn why each pub has its own character, how they survived through wars and fires, and what makes them special today.

The Modern Pub: A Visual Treat

After soaking up the old-world charm, the tour visits a contemporary pub with a stunning interior. This venue adds a different flavor, offering a sleek, memorable atmosphere to contrast with the centuries-old establishments. Here, you’ll get a taste of modern London’s approach to pub design, and your guide will explain its unique story.

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Sampling Beers & Bar Snacks

At each pub, you’ll enjoy a carefully selected beer alongside traditional English bar snacks. From light bites to hearty pub fare, these snacks complement the drinks and add to the local experience. The drinks are chosen to showcase different styles of beer available in London, so you’ll come away with a better understanding of British brewing.

According to reviews, the beer choices and snacks are well-received, with one guest praising the “delicious snacks” and the “awesome” selection of beers. It’s a relaxed setting to chat about the history, ask questions, and get a true taste of London’s pub culture.

The Final Stop at Leadenhall Market

The tour concludes at Leadenhall Market, a lively and iconic London landmark. This area offers one last chance to soak in the atmosphere, do some exploration, or head off to your next activity. The market’s historic architecture makes it a fitting end point, tying together the old and new in one charming setting.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Group Size & Duration

The tour is designed for small groups, making it intimate enough for questions and personalized stories. It lasts about 2.5 hours, which means you get a good chunk of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The scheduled stops, each about 30 minutes, balance sightseeing, drinking, and snacking.

Price & Value

At $101 per person, the price covers all drinks, snacks, and the guide’s expertise. Compared to buying drinks individually, this package offers good value, especially considering the quality of the venues visited and the stories shared. It’s an efficient way to sample several pubs without the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to order.

What’s Included & Not

Included are food, drinks, and bar snacks, which is a strong selling point. However, tips or gratuities aren’t included, so if you appreciate your guide, a little extra is always nice. You’ll also need to bring ID and be at least 18, as the pubs are licensed premises.

Cancellation & Flexibility

Booking is flexible — you can reserve and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easier to plan without stress, especially if your trip details are still coming together.

The Authenticity & Experience: What Travelers Say

Two reviews give us a pretty good idea of what to expect:
– Alicia from the US called it an “awesome tour” and appreciated the fun guide and delicious snacks. She recommended starting your trip with this, as it’s a great way to learn a lot early on.
– Vittoria from the UK praised Mark, the guide, for sharing full details and fun facts about each pub. She highlighted the character of each pub and the extensive beer selection.

Both reviewers emphasized how engaging and informative the experience was, making it clear that the tour isn’t just about drinking but about enjoying London’s pub traditions and history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy history, local drinks, and authentic pub atmospheres. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided introduction to London’s historic drinking venues without wandering aimlessly. If you’re into storytelling, craft beer, and a bit of sightseeing, it ticks all these boxes.

However, it’s less suited for those seeking a longer, more flexible pub crawl or anyone under 18, as it involves licensed pubs and alcohol consumption. It’s also a good pick if you prefer a small, guided group rather than solo exploration.

The Sum Up

In the end, the City of London Historic Pub Tour with Beers and Bar Snacks offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience London’s legendary pub scene. You’ll enjoy visiting centuries-old pubs, sampling local beers, and learning stories that have stood the test of time, all wrapped up in a friendly, professional guide’s narration.

For anyone passionate about history, beer, or just wanting a memorable way to see a different side of London, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who appreciate good stories paired with good drinks, and who enjoy being in the company of like-minded travelers.

If you’re after a lively, educational, and tasty experience in the City of London, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, since the pubs are licensed premises and the tour involves sampling beers, you should be comfortable with drinking alcohol to fully enjoy the experience.

What kind of beers will I taste?
The guide will select different styles of beer available in each venue, giving you a good overview of London’s local beer options.

How long does each pub stop last?
Each venue is visited for about 30 minutes, which allows enough time to enjoy a drink, sample some snacks, and listen to stories.

Where does the tour end?
The tour finishes at Leadenhall Market, a lively historic site perfect for exploring further or heading to your next destination.

Do I need to bring ID?
Yes, bring your passport or ID card. You need to be 18 or over, and ID might be checked, especially if you look under 30.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers all drinks, snacks, and the guide’s storytelling. Tips are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel plans.

Is this a walking tour?
Yes, it’s a walk through the City of London, with visits to four pubs within close proximity.

How big are the groups?
The tour tends to be small, ensuring a more personal experience with plenty of opportunity for questions.

Would this be good for a group or family?
It’s best suited for adults interested in history and drinks. Not suitable for children under 18, as it involves alcohol consumption in licensed pubs.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re a history buff, a beer lover, or simply curious about London’s pub culture, this tour has plenty to offer. Cheers!

You can check availability for your dates here: