Discover the Best Pubs and Bars Near Tower Bridge

Enjoy these top drinking spots close to Tower Bridge

Published: April 3, 2025
Tower Bridge

After soaking in the beauty of Tower Bridge, a true London icon, it's the perfect moment to relax with a drink. Fortunately, the surrounding area is teeming with fantastic bars and pubs that offer a delightful mix of history, ambiance, and flavour. From upscale cocktail lounges with breathtaking views to cozy alehouses full of charm, we've rounded up the best places to enjoy a drink near Tower Bridge. Let's dive into our top picks and see what these great spots have to offer. 

High-end 

Le Pont de la Tour Bar 

Walking Distance: 5 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Sophisticated cocktails and riverside views
Google Rating: 4.5 

Nestled along the banks of the Thames, Le Pont de la Tour Bar is a splendid spot combining elegant cocktails and stunning views. Known for its "Pont Fizz" cocktail, this venue exudes sophistication, making it an ideal choice for a luxurious evening out. The interior is chic and refined, adorned with stylish decor that complements its prime riverside setting. The expansive windows offer unparalleled views of Tower Bridge, creating an ambiance that feels both relaxing and indulgent. 

The menu is filled with delightful creations, including the refreshing “Pont Martini,” crafted with precision by skilled mixologists. The bar’s selection of fine wines and spirits caters to every palate, enhancing the overall experience. Attentive service adds to the charm, ensuring every visit feels special and memorable. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, Le Pont de la Tour Bar is an excellent place to enjoy a sophisticated drink while taking in the iconic London skyline. 

The atmosphere here is lively yet intimate, with soft music setting the tone for a delightful evening. Guests can enjoy the elegant furnishings, plush seating, and ambient lighting that all contribute to a sense of understated luxury. 

Le Pont de la Tour Bar embodies a harmonious blend of style and substance, offering a serene escape from the bustling city streets. For those who appreciate fine dining and exquisite drinks in a stunning location, this bar is a must-visit on your journey around Tower Bridge. 

Aqua Shard 

Walking Distance: 15 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Creative cocktails and panoramic views
Google Rating: 4.3 

Perched high within The Shard, Aqua Shard offers a cocktail experience with a difference. Known for its inventive drinks such as the "Shard Adventure," this high-end bar provides striking panoramic views of the city. The contemporary, bright interior is adorned with sophisticated decor, creating an inviting yet luxurious atmosphere. The vibrant ambiance, combined with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensures that every visit feels like a special occasion. 

The cocktail menu is as impressive as the views, with expertly crafted drinks that surprise and delight. The "London Spritz" is a standout, offering a refreshing twist on a classic favourite. Aqua Shard’s creative flair extends beyond cocktails, with a selection of fine wines and rare spirits to further enhance your visit. 

The elegant setting encourages guests to relax and enjoy the stunning cityscape, particularly as the sun sets and the twinkling lights of London come to life. Whether you're meeting friends or on a romantic date, Aqua Shard’s combination of style, sophistication, and superb drinks makes it a top choice for those seeking something truly special. 

The atmosphere is lively, with ambient music and a bustling vibe, making it a fantastic place to start an unforgettable night out in London.  

SkyLounge 

SkyLounge 

Walking Distance: 12 minutes
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill
Known For: Rooftop cocktails and skyline views
Google Rating: 4.4 

Situated atop the DoubleTree by Hilton, SkyLounge offers visitors rooftop cocktails with a stunning backdrop of London’s skyline. Known for its signature "Sky Mojito," this chic bar creates an atmosphere filled with vibrancy and excitement. The stylish decor, combined with the soft glow of mood lighting, sets the stage for a memorable experience. 

SkyLounge’s layout takes full advantage of its prime location, with outdoor seating that provides panoramic views stretching from Tower Bridge to the heart of the city. The relaxed yet sophisticated vibe is perfect for those looking to unwind, whether with colleagues after work or with friends starting an evening adventure. 

The cocktail menu features innovative creations as well as timeless classics, offering something for every taste. The "Lemon Mist," another highlight, adds a citrusy zest, perfect for sipping while watching the city transition from day to night.  

As dusk falls, SkyLounge transforms into a buzzing hive of energy, with the city lights providing a dazzling accompaniment to the vibrant music that fills the air. This rooftop haven perfectly encapsulates the essence of London’s nightlife, combining outstanding views with exceptional cocktails, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area around Tower Bridge. 

Mid-range 

The Hide Bar 

Walking Distance: 10 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Craft cocktails and cozy atmosphere
Google Rating: 4.5 

The Hide Bar is a hidden gem offering craft cocktails within a cozy setting. Known for its "Hideaway Collins," this inviting venue is a go-to for those seeking expertly mixed drinks in a warm, relaxed environment. The intimate atmosphere, combined with eclectic decor, creates a space that feels both unique and welcoming. 

The menu showcases a range of innovative cocktails. The "Crypt Keeper" stands out, offering a spicy twist that delights the palate.  

The soft lighting and comfortable seating make it an ideal spot for winding down after a day of exploring. The converted warehouse setting adds to the character, with exposed brick walls and charming details that invite guests to linger. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone, The Hide Bar’s unique blend of style and comfort makes it a memorable mid-range option. 

With its lively buzz and genuine hospitality, The Hide Bar offers an escape from the ordinary, providing an experience that's both refreshing and rewarding. 

The Anchor Tap 

Walking Distance: 6 minutes
Nearest Tube: Bermondsey
Known For: Historic charm and traditional ales
Google Rating: 4.4 

The Anchor Tap is steeped in history, offering guests a taste of traditional London with its selection of classic ales. Known for its "Anchor Bitter," this pub exudes charm with its rustic decor and cozy, welcoming nooks. The interiors transport you to a bygone era, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely pint. 

Guests can explore a range of real ales and ciders, each carefully chosen to provide an authentic drinking experience. 

The pub's location, just steps from Tower Bridge, makes it an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The warm ambiance and intimate setting provide a comfortable escape, allowing you to soak in the unique character and charm that The Anchor Tap has to offer. 

With a focus on quality and tradition, The Anchor Tap is a haven for those seeking a genuine London pub experience. Its blend of historical allure and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout choice for anyone exploring the area. 

The Woolpack 

The Woolpack 

Walking Distance: 12 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Beer Garden and classic pints
Google Rating: 4.4 

The Woolpack is known for its inviting beer garden and selection of classic pints like the eponymous "Woolpack Ale." The relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, offering a delightful escape from the city’s hustle. The garden is spacious and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a pint under the open sky on a sunny day. 

Inside, the pub’s rustic decor and traditional furnishings create a cozy and friendly vibe. Whether you’re enjoying a conversation with friends or simply taking in the ambiance, The Woolpack provides a charming setting that invites you to stay for just one more. 

The pub’s menu offers a range of beverages, from classic ales to inventive cocktails, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

The Woolpack's combination of a vibrant beer garden and a comforting interior makes it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively outdoor gathering or a quiet drink indoors, this mid-range bar has you covered. 

The Old Thameside Inn 

Walking Distance: 7 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge Known For: Riverside views and varied ales
Google Rating: 4.3 

The Old Thameside Inn offers a picturesque setting with its beautiful riverside views and varied ale selection. Known for its "Thameside Pale," this pub captures the essence of riverside relaxation, providing stunning vistas as a backdrop to your experience. The history-rich interiors and large terrace offer different atmospheres, catering to diverse preferences. 

The wide selection of ales, beers, and ciders makes it easy to find the perfect drink. The pub’s traditional menu also features classic British dishes, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal. 

Budget-friendly 

The Shipwrights Arms 

Walking Distance: 8 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Affordable pints and traditional setting
Google Rating: 4.3 

The Shipwrights Arms offers affordable pints in a quintessentially traditional setting. This pub exudes warmth and friendliness, making it an inviting spot for budget-conscious visitors. The interiors echo the charm of a classic London pub, with wood-panelled walls and comfortable seating. 

With a range of beers, ales, and spirits at wallet-friendly prices, The Shipwrights Arms ensures a satisfying experience without breaking the bank.  

The atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, attracting a diverse crowd that appreciates the pub’s honest and no-frills approach. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet drink, The Shipwrights Arms offers a comforting haven in a busy city. 

It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring Tower Bridge, offering a genuine taste of London’s pub culture in a location that feels like stepping back in time. 

The Anchor Bankside 

Walking Distance: 12 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: Historic setting and budget-friendly ales
Google Rating: 4.3 

The Anchor Bankside, with its rich history, offers budget-friendly ales like the "Anchor Light" in a setting full of character. Situated along the river, the pub provides both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your drink with a view. The historic charm is palpable, making you feel like part of the city’s storied past. 

The beer list features a range of classics and new favourites, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The friendly service and inviting ambiance encourage patrons to stay awhile, soaking in the vibrant yet relaxed environment. 

Whether you’re perched on the riverside terrace or nestled inside among the rustic decor, The Anchor Bankside is a delightful venue to experience traditional British pub life. Its combination of affordability and scenic beauty makes it a standout choice for those exploring the area around Tower Bridge. 

The Horniman at Hays 

The Horniman at Hays 

Walking Distance: 9 minutes
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Known For: River views and traditional brews Google Rating: 4.4 

With stunning river views, The Horniman at Hays offers traditional brews like the "Hays Bitter" in an accessible setting. The relaxed vibe and scenic backdrop provide a tranquil environment for enjoying quality drinks without the hefty price tag. It’s ideal for those who love picturesque settings and classic flavours. 

The spacious interior, combined with ample outdoor seating, mean you’ll always find a place to perch.  

The Raven 

Walking Distance: 14 minutes
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill
Known For: Local beers and casual vibe
Google Rating: 4.4 

The Raven offers local beers in a casual, laid-back setting. The interiors are simple yet inviting, with comfortable seating that encourages relaxation. 

Alongside a well-curated selection of beers, ales, and spirits, The Raven features a menu of classic pub food, perfect for satisfying any cravings.  

The pub’s blend of quality, value, and charm makes it a great choice for those looking to unwind without spending a fortune. Whether you’re sharing stories with locals or simply enjoying your own company, The Raven offers a genuine slice of London life. 

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Famous London Film Locations: A Movie-Lover's Guide

Lights, camera, action! Trace your way around the capital with these famous London film locations. London is an iconic city for its architecture, culture and general ‘vibe’. What’s more though is that the capital has been immortalised on screen throughout the years and portrayed in many different lights from the mystical and magical, to the nail-biting and thrilling. The city itself has a variety of personas to be discovered on a film tour of London. Let’s take a look at the changing landscapes of London and the iconic scenes from some of our best loved films that have captured London at its best. James Bond James Bond: the world's favourite action hero and Mi6 spy. Okay, we'll give you this as perhaps a bit of an obvious connection London. With offices based on the banks of the Thames, his HQ is frequently featured in the popular series Fleming created so many decades ago. A memorable moment was Pierce Brosnan’s speedboat chase along the Thames in The World is Not Enough. Later, in Skyfall, Daniel Craig symbolically stands on a rooftop in central London with some of the most iconic sights on the horizon, including Big Ben and the tops of the houses of Parliament, with bronze topped domes of local churches in the foreground. Spot some of London's iconic "Bond spots" with a trip down the Thames on a Hop On Hop Off Thames River Cruise - you'll even spot the famous MI6 and MI5 buildings on the rivers-edge to leave you shaken and a bit stirred... with awe. Notting Hill Probably one of the best pop-culture films of the 1990s, Notting Hill, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, takes you on a tour of London like a local, as lived by a group of thirty-somethings. Grant’s iconic tiny house with the blue door can be found at 280 Westbourne Park Road. Although be warned, you ardent 'grammers, the owners of this house have since painted and changed the façade. 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And those of us with colossally powerful memories might even remember the scene where Darcy and Daniel have their bare-fisted battle and smash through the Greek restaurant. Well, that's now a wine merchant called Bedales, just around the corner in the popular marketplace. Only steps away from this iconic market area, you'll see The Shard soaring into the air, casting a pointy shadow over Bridget's flat. Harry Potter Do you like magic? Do you like train stations that are missing a quarter? Then you'll love Harry Potter and his magical world, based in London. Fans of the books might recognise some architecture featured heavily in the film. The Ministry of Magic was filmed outside Scotland Yard and the street shots (you’ll remember from Diagon Alley) combined Borough Market and Leadenhall Market. Even though they’re not even remotely nearby... And who can forget platform 9 3⁄4 in Kings Cross. 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You'll make great savings vs. paying at the gate on the best London attractions around!
Suz Pathmanathan
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The Royal Albert Hall Tour: FAQs

What is the Royal Albert Hall? The Royal Albert Hall is perhaps the most famous concert hall in the country. It was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 and has since played host to some of the most memorable, revered and notorious events in British cultural history. Take a look round it and learn all about its history on a Royal Albert Hall tour, which is what this article is all about. Why is it called the Royal Albert Hall? It's named in tribute to Albert, Prince Consort and husband to Queen Victoria. Following London’s successful hosting of the Great Exhibition in 1851, Prince Albert pushed proposals for permanent cultural facilities and institutions in the capital. Albert died before his vision could come to life. A memorial to him was planned, with a great hall stood across from it. The Albert Memorial still stands in Kensington Gardens, with the Royal Albert Hall facing it. Why is it so famous? Because of its design... perhaps. It is an ellipse with a distance colour to it, courtesy of its liberal use of Fareham Red brick. The great dome, constructed from glass and wrought-iron, is 41m high and the whole building is ringed by a triumphant mosaic frieze, depicting important events in the story of the arts and sciences. Also, references in songs and artworks helped it become part of the UK’s cultural fabric, particularly when John Lennon sang its name in the enigmatic ‘A Day in the Life’. It has become a byword for classiness and making it when it comes to the arts. If you’re playing the Albert Hall, you’re probably doing OK. And perhaps it’s famous because of all the events that have taken place there, and all the famous people who’ve performed or been in attendance. What events? What famous people? Camille Saint-Saëns played the Hall’s great organ, known as the Voice of Jupiter, during a performance in 1871. The genius composer and virtuosic pianist Sergei Rachmaninoff played at the Royal Albert Hall in 1911. Albert Einstein led a meeting about assisting refugee academics here in 1933; the Eurovision Song Contest was held at the Hall in 1968. Two sides of the same coin. Sporting events regularly take place at the Royal Albert Hall. Past events include UFC 38, a Sumo wrestling tournament, and boxing bouts featuring Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis and Prince Naseem Hamed. But it’s the music that still wins out. As well as hosting the BBC Proms - an eight-week classical music festival - each year, the Royal Albert Hall has put on shows by Beyonce, the Arctic Monkeys, Adele and Eric Clapton. Clapton has played the hall over 200 times, and once said that playing it was like ‘playing in my front room.’ Pink Floyd were banned from ever playing the hall again after a 1969 concert saw them setting off cannons and nailing things to the stage. A piece by British pop artists Peter Blake, named Appearing at the Royal Albert Hall, shows more than 400 people who have performed and appeared at the hall. It’s a fun way of finding out just how many famous faces are associated with this place, having played, performed and watched shows here. What will I see on the Royal Albert Hall tour? Your guide introduces you to the history of the Hall as you take a look at the royal areas and the giant auditorium. You’ll see the famous stage and learn about the great variety of performances the hall puts on. The dome, its construction and the famous acoustical problems it presented are another interesting part of the Royal Albert Hall Tour. And the tour guides come armed with plenty of facts about the weirdest and wildest things to have occurred in the grand concert hall since it opened. Want to know about the time a church group made a river in the auditorium? The time an operatic concert called for the auditorium to be flooded? And what do the Krays have to do with this place? You’d better get yourself on a Royal Albert Hall Tour to find out. This doesn’t always apply, so don’t get your hopes too high...but some lucky tour groups get the opportunity to watch world-class orchestras as they soundcheck prior to the evening’s performance. That’s a real treat. When do the tours run? The Royal Albert Hall Tour runs from 10am to 4pm from November to March, and between 9.30am and 4.30pm April to October. They leave every 30 minutes from the Cafe Bar at Door 12. Sometimes, because of performance schedules, the tour runs less frequently or, very occasionally, not at all. How long do the Royal Albert Hall tours last? Each tour lasts about an hour. Can I take photos during the Royal Albert Hall tour? Usually, yes. However, when events are taking place that evening and rehearsals are on, it’s not possible. Is there anywhere to get food and drink? Sure. There’s a cafe and an Italian restaurant. For a particularly memorable visit, consider ordering an afternoon tea after your tour. Are the tours accessible for people with disabilities? They are. And if you wish to arrange a touch tour or a tour for the deaf, contact 020 7589 8212. Can I book a group tour? If your group is 15 people or more, contact the Hall directly. Otherwise, just use the advance booking system online, or turn up nice and early on the day. So tours can be booked on the day? Yes, particularly when you are in small groups, pairs or on your own. How much do tour tickets cost? Standard adult tickets cost £13.75 when booked online, while concessions are £11.75 and children (5-16 years old) cost just £6.75. If you’re coming with children under 5, they are free, but you still need to get them a ticket. However, tickets to the Royal Albert Hall Tour are free for London Pass holders. How do I get there? It’s best to get public transport to the Royal Albert Hall. 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Matthew Pearson
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