The Great East London Pub Crawl!

If you’re thinking about jumping into London’s lively pub scene, especially in Shoreditch, this Great East London Pub Crawl might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally done this tour, we’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture. It’s designed for those who want to experience East London’s nightlife without the hassle of planning individual stops.

What we like about it? First, it offers a taste of Shoreditch’s real vibe, away from the overly touristy spots, giving you a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Second, the tour covers 12 different venues, so there’s a good variety of atmospheres and drinks to try. However, one thing to consider is the variable quality of experiences—some reviews point out that the area can feel a bit gritty and unpolished at times, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.

This tour is best suited for people who are up for a lively, social evening and don’t mind a quick-paced journey through some of Shoreditch’s most popular drinking spots. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, or more refined night out, you might find this a bit too bustling or casual. Still, for an affordable way to explore the neighborhood’s nightlife in just a couple of hours, it’s worth considering.

• Quick, guided experience: Around 2 hours, perfect for a relaxed yet lively evening.
• Variety of venues: From craft beer pubs to cocktail bars and even a ping-pong venue.
• Local vibe focus: Emphasizes visiting spots popular with Londoners, avoiding main tourist traps.
• Affordable price point: About $34.45 per person, offering good value for a guided tour of 12 places.
• Group size limited: Max 20 travelers, so it feels more personal than a large bus tour.
• Some area concerns: The starting point and part of the neighborhood can seem a bit gritty, according to reviews.

This pub crawl kicks off at The Craft Beer Co. Old Street, a solid choice for craft beer lovers. You can expect a laid-back vibe with good beers and chill surroundings. It’s a great way to warm up and get into the mood, especially if you’re into quality brews. The fact that admission is free here makes it easy to enjoy without extra costs—just arrive ready to sip.

Next, the group moves to The Angel, a classic East London pub. With its red-brick facade and sports screens, it’s the kind of place where locals hang out. It offers pool tables and a straightforward pub experience. A reviewer mentioned it as one of the stops that felt genuinely like a neighborhood spot, which is a plus if you’re into authentic local atmospheres.

Three Crowns is next—a pub known for its airy feel, whitewashed walls, and seasonal British dishes. This spot offers a nice break from the busier venues, and it’s ideal if you’re looking to try some traditional pub fare alongside your drinks. If you’re a fan of British classics, you’ll probably enjoy this stop.

One of the more unique venues is Bounce Old Street, a ping-pong themed venue. While it’s not included in the ticket price, it offers a fun, interactive experience if you’re into games. The venue’s lively environment can be a highlight, but it’s worth noting that this is more of a fun side stop rather than a traditional pub.

Old Fountain offers a traditional setting with a rotating selection of cask ales and a roof terrace. It’s perfect if you’re into trying different beers and enjoying a relaxed outdoor space. Reviews highlight its classic pub feel and its good selection of drinks.

The Old Blue Last has a reputation as a trendy spot, especially with its upstairs live music venue. It attracts a young, energetic crowd, making it a lively place to keep the party going. If you enjoy live music or a buzzing atmosphere, this could be a favorite.

Old Street Records is a lively venue with live band performances and a menu of pizzas and cocktails. Perfect for those wanting a bit more energy, this spot combines music, good food, and drinks in one vibrant package.

Next, the Golden Bee introduces a more stylish vibe with a mirror ceiling and a roof terrace lit up with colorful lights. It’s a popular choice for cocktails and socializing, especially if you’re into stylish, modern bars.

Callooh Callay Bar has a quirky interior inspired by Lewis Carroll, with an extensive cocktail menu. The low-lit, whimsical space offers a fun and creative atmosphere—great for those who love inventive drinks and a bit of whimsy.

The Ten Bells is a historic pub, serving classic beers, wines, and cocktails across its three floors. A favorite among locals, it’s a good stop for those interested in a traditional pub experience with a bit of history.

The Eagle is a Victorian-style pub with a courtyard garden and a weekly quiz night. It’s a cozy, charming spot that feels like stepping back in time—perfect if you want a more relaxed, old-school pub experience.

Finally, 222 Shoreditch High St is a brewpub serving craft beers alongside Chicago-style eats like pizzas and subs. It offers a casual, hearty end to the crawl with a good selection of beers and comfort food.

Most stops are about 10-minute visits, so you’ll get a quick taste of each place—enough to decide if you’d want to return. The tour runs from 6:00 pm and ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for those who want to carry on or head home afterward.

The tour is designed for small groups (up to 20), which means you’ll get a more intimate experience than large party tours. Your guide is responsible for keeping things moving and showing you the highlights, but keep in mind some reviews mention that the area can feel a bit rough around the edges—graffiti and less polished streets are part of the charm or the drawback, depending on your taste.

One review noted that the host was very sweet, which helps create a friendly atmosphere, but others mentioned that the area might not be the most scenic or inviting, especially if you’re sensitive to less tidy surroundings.

The tour is fairly affordable, but you’ll want to budget extra for drinks at venues where cover charges aren’t included. The drinks are paid individually, so be prepared for that if you want to enjoy at every stop.

While the overall rating is 3.4 out of 5, reviews reveal a mixed experience. Some travelers loved the fun atmosphere and the ability to sample a variety of pubs, with one even saying, “Great little pub crawl experience.” Others were less impressed, citing cancellations or areas that felt less appealing. One traveler mentioned that the area was very dirty and started in a dark alley, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

However, the guide’s knowledge and friendliness seem to be a bright spot. One reviewer called Ollie “great,” appreciating her local expertise and the “cool pubs” she took them to. That personal touch can make or break the experience, especially in a neighborhood like Shoreditch, which is very dynamic.

Considering the price, the Great East London Pub Crawl offers decent value if you want an easy way to explore a range of lively pubs and bars. It’s a good choice for those who like socializing, discovering local hangouts, and trying a variety of drinks without the stress of planning individual stops.

But it’s worth setting expectations: this isn’t a polished, elegant tour. The neighborhood can be a bit gritty, and the overall experience is casual and energetic. If you’re after a refined evening or a scenic stroll, this might not be the right fit. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, sociable way to sample East London’s nightlife, it’s a solid option.

Is the tour suitable for people under 18?
Since you need to bring your ID to enjoy drinks, this tour is intended for adults. The focus is on drinking and socializing, so it’s not suitable for children or minors.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it ideal for a quick yet fun evening out.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 52 days in advance on average. It’s a popular choice, so booking early helps secure your spot.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided tour and entry to multiple venues. Drinks are paid for separately at each location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. After that, no refunds are available.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Yes, up to 20 travelers can join, making it a manageable and friendly group setting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Old Street and finishes back at the same location, so you can easily plan your evening afterward.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants need to be of legal drinking age, and you should bring valid ID.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to rain or other bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This pub crawl offers a straightforward way to explore East London’s vibrant drinking spots without the fuss of planning each venue yourself. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy social, lively atmospheres, and are comfortable with a quick-paced tour of multiple venues. The guide’s local knowledge can enhance the experience, but the neighborhood’s sometimes gritty vibe is part of its charm—and its challenge.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, fun night out with new people and a taste of Shoreditch’s nightlife, this tour could be just what you need. If you prefer more scenic or high-end experiences, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a relaxed, energetic evening in one of London’s most dynamic neighborhoods, this pub crawl hits the mark.

Note: Always check current reviews and availability before booking, as experiences can change over time.