Raise a Glass Near Westminster Abbey

Discover the perfect pubs and bars near Westminster Abbey.

Published: April 4, 2025
Raise a Glass Near Westminster Abbey

After exploring the rich history of Westminster Abbey, it's time to kick back and indulge in one of London’s quintessential pub experiences. The area surrounding this iconic landmark is full of inviting bars and pubs, each offering a unique atmosphere and delightful drinks. From upscale cocktail bars to traditional British pubs, we’ve selected the best spots to relax and enjoy a drink near Westminster Abbey. Let's dive into our top picks for a perfect post-sightseeing respite. 

 

High-end 

The Library Bar at The Lanesborough 

Walking distance: 20 minutes Nearest tube: Hyde Park Corner Known for: Elegant cocktails and innovative mixology Google rating: 4.6 

The Library Bar at The Lanesborough combines sophistication with comfort, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a luxurious setting. Known for its "Library Old Fashioned," the bar exudes elegance with its rich mahogany decor and plush leather seating. With attentive service and an intimate atmosphere, this bar creates a perfect setting for an indulgent evening. Whether you're enjoying a quiet drink or a special celebration, The Library Bar ensures a memorable night. 

The American Bar at The Stafford 

Walking distance: 15 minutes Nearest tube: Green Park Known for: Classic cocktails and timeless ambiance Google rating: 4.5 

Famed for its classic cocktails, The American Bar at The Stafford offers a timeless ambiance with an air of refined elegance. Known for its "Stafford Martini," this bar provides a sophisticated experience with stylish decor and evocative photographs. The impeccable service and relaxed atmosphere beckon visitors to linger and enjoy iconic cocktails in a truly unique setting. 

The Goring Bar 

Walking distance: 10 minutes Nearest tube: Victoria Known for: Luxury cocktails and elegant setting Google rating: 4.7 

The Goring Bar, nestled within The Goring Hotel, offers luxury cocktails in an elegant environment. Known for the "Goring Negroni," the bar features opulent furnishings and a cozy fireplace, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated ambiance. The attentive service and stylish decor make it a wonderful location for celebrating or relaxing in sheer luxury. 

The Rivoli Bar at The Ritz 

The Rivoli Bar at The Ritz 

Walking distance: 17 minutes Nearest tube: Green Park Known for: Exquisite cocktails and opulent setting Google rating: 4.4 

The Rivoli Bar at The Ritz exudes opulence, offering exquisite cocktails in a lavish Art Deco setting. Known for the "Ritz 110," the bar provides a grand ambiance with gold accents and luxurious furnishings. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking indulgence, the Rivoli Bar ensures an exquisite experience. 

The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy 

Walking distance: 20 minutes Nearest tube: Charing Cross Known for: Innovative cocktails and glamorous decor Google rating: 4.5 

The Beaufort Bar at The Savoy presents innovative cocktails amidst glamorous decor. Known for the "Savoy Spritz," the bar dazzles with dramatic interiors and exceptional service. The blend of elegance and creativity makes it a top choice for those desiring a high-end cocktail experience near Westminster Abbey

Storey's Gate 

Storey's Gate 

Explore Storey's Gate, a friendly pub known for its warm atmosphere and diverse menu. Just a short walk from Westminster Abbey, it offers a wide range of ales, beers, and wines alongside delicious pub favourites. Whether you're meeting friends or relaxing solo, Storey’s Gate welcomes you with a lively vibe and great hospitality. 

Mid-range 

The Two Chairmen 

Walking distance: 8 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Real ales and historical charm Google rating: 4.4 

The Two Chairmen, one of London's oldest pubs, offers real ales within a charming historical setting. Known for its "Chairmen's Choice," this pub combines tradition with authenticity. The cozy interior, adorned with vintage decor, provides a welcoming atmosphere ideal for those seeking a genuine British pub experience. With its friendly vibe and quality ales, it's a delightful stop after exploring Westminster Abbey. 

The Speaker 

Walking distance: 10 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Cask ales and no-frills atmosphere Google rating: 4.3 

The Speaker delivers cask ales in a no-frills, relaxed environment. Known for its "Speaker's Bitter," this pub provides a straightforward yet inviting setting with wood-panelled walls and classic pub furnishings. Ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and quality, The Speaker offers a comfortable escape from the bustle of the city with authentic drinks and warm hospitality. 

Clarence Pub 

Walking distance: 5 minutes Nearest tube: Westminster Known for: British ales and traditional setting Google rating: 4.4 

Clarence Pub offers a selection of British ales within a traditional pub setting. Known for its "Clarence Ale," it captures the essence of London’s pub scene with its classic decor and warm ambiance. The staff's friendly approach and delicious pub fare make it a great choice for relaxing with friends after a day of sightseeing. 

St. Stephen's Tavern 

Walking distance: 5 minutes Nearest tube: Westminster Known for: Historic setting and traditional ales Google rating: 4.3 

Step into history at St. Stephen's Tavern, known for its traditional ales and close proximity to Westminster Abbey. Known for "Stephen's Stout," this pub boasts Victorian charm with ornate interiors. The lively crowd and authentic atmosphere offer a true taste of London’s historical pub culture, making it popular among visitors and locals alike. 

The Sanctuary House Hotel 

The Sanctuary House Hotel 

Walking distance: 5 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Craft beers and cozy decor Google rating: 4.4 

The Sanctuary House Hotel offers craft beers within a cozy, inviting space. Known for its "Sanctuary Pale Ale," this pub provides a warm atmosphere with traditional furnishings. Perfect for unwinding after a tour of the city, it combines excellent drink offerings with a relaxing environment that’s both welcoming and genuine. 

Budget-friendly 

The Albert 

Walking distance: 10 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Affordable pints and classic ambiance Google rating: 4.3 

The Albert offers affordable pints in a pub rich with classic charm. Known for its "Albert's Ale," it provides a casual setting with traditional decor and friendly service. The relaxed environment makes it perfect for those looking to enjoy quality drinks without stretching the budget, creating a delightful and accessible pub experience. 

The Silver Cross 

Walking distance: 7 minutes Nearest tube: Westminster Known for: Budget-friendly drinks and lively vibe Google rating: 4.2 

The Silver Cross provides budget-friendly drinks in a lively atmosphere. Known for its "Silver Lager," this pub is welcoming and vibrant, making it popular among locals and tourists. The spacious setting and enthusiastic crowds ensure a lively experience where everyone feels at home. 

The White Horse and Bower 

Walking distance: 12 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Local beers and no-nonsense charm Google rating: 4.3 

The White Horse and Bower offers local beers in a no-nonsense pub setting. Known for its "White Horse Bitter," it boasts a straightforward style with a friendly crowd. Perfect for those seeking simplicity and value, it provides a warm and inviting environment to enjoy good company and great drinks. 

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The Feathers 

Walking distance: 12 minutes Nearest tube: St. James's Park Known for: Traditional ales and welcoming staff Google rating: 4.4 

The Feathers delivers traditional ales with a welcoming touch, known for its "Feathers Best." The pub’s friendly staff and classic decor create a homey feel that’s easy to love. Affordable options make it a convenient choice for those who want to enjoy London's pub culture on a budget. 

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Fascinating Buckingham Palace facts

Seeing Buckingham Palace is a must for anybody visiting London. Whether you're a massive fan of the Royal Family, or you simply want to see one of Britain's biggest historical landmarks, you'll find something to love inside its large, lavish walls. Buckingham Palace is located in Westminster, in the heart of central London, and with St. James's Park and Green Park as its backyards. It serves as the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. The palace has a long and colorful history - it wouldn't be British without one. So, without further ado, here are some fascinating facts about Buckingham Palace you may not have known. With The London sightseeing Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price - and enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual tickets to London attractions.  ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️ When was Buckingham Palace built? Buckingham Palace was originally known as Buckingham House, and was built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham. King George III then bought it in 1761. Construction of the 775-room palace we see today began in 1825, and it's been the official London residence for all reigning monarchs since Queen Victoria took up residence in 1837. The Palace went way over budget The original Buckingham House was transformed by the esteemed architect John Nash into what it is today. However, he accidentally went over budget and was fired for overspending. Take a look at the gilded detailing and it's no surprise. Nash transformed Buckingham House - as it used to be known - into the grandest possible version of itself, rebuilding the two east wings and adding in the triumphal arch, originally for ceremonial processions into the palace. That arch now lives at Marble Arch - yes, that's the Marble Arch. After Nash, a new architect called Edward Blore completed the work on the palace. Which British Royal was the first to live in Buckingham Palace? Before the palace as we know it was built, the history of the site goes as far back as the Middle Ages, when the site formed part of the Manor of Ebury. (We haven't heard of it either.) It was used for different buildings by different people, including Henry VIII back in the 16th Century. However, once King George IV's planned work was completed, he never even had the chance to call it home. Queen Victoria moved in in 1837, and was the first British Royal to live in Buckingham Palace, followed by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Throughout WW2, the royals refused to leave the palace London was bombed heavily throughout World War Two. And, with Buckingham Palace being the cultural landmark it is, it became a massive target. Despite being advised to leave for their own safety, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth kept calm and carried on, refusing to leave - even though the palace was hit nine times over the course of the war.  There are over 700 rooms in the palace Buckingham Palace has hosted thousands of visitors throughout the years. And with a whopping 775 rooms, it's not hard to see how.  Among the 775 rooms are 19 grand State Rooms for events, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 78 bathrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, and 92 offices for the King, Royal Family, and staff. Of the State Rooms, the Throne Room is for ceremonial and official events - and the Prince and Princess of Wales took their wedding photos there. Most opulent is the White Room, where the King receives guests. When are the State Rooms open? The State Rooms are only open to the public in the summer. Since Buckingham Palace is very much still a functioning royal residence, throwing its doors open to the public isn't always practical. That's why they only open up during August and September when Queen Elizabeth heads off to Scotland for the summer holidays. Of course, that means you won't catch a glimpse of the Queen at any point of your visit. What kind of art can be found in Buckingham Palace? Buckingham Palace is home to a vast collection of masterworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other beautiful objects. Some of the most widely recognizable pieces include works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Canaletto. The Royal Collection Trust, which manages the art collection, offers tours of the palace where visitors can view many of these masterpieces One of the highlights is the massive painting of Queen Victoria's coronation, which has to be seen to be believed. A massive fan of the royals managed to break in three times As a kid, little Edward Jones was pretty fascinated by the Royal Family. So much so that he managed to sneak into the residence three times. Well, at the very least he was caught three times. He managed to steal Queen Victoria's underwear (!), as well as food from the kitchens. He even boasted to the press that he'd sat on her throne. Without breaking in, it's possible to visit the Throne Room and see the three gilded royal seats for yourself.  Does King Charles III live in Buckingham Palace? As head of 'The Firm', King Charles III prefers to be based at Clarence House (also in London), but doesn't live at Buckingham Palace. He does carry out official engagements there, however. Tradition tends to dictate that the monarch lives at Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth II and the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh lived in the private apartments on the north side of the Palace. Other members of the Royal Family have lived in rooms on the upper floors of the north and east sides. Royal Family members, such Princess Anne, and Prince Edward and Sophie Countess of Wessex, hold private apartments at the palace but don't live there full-time. So it's unlikely you'll bump into any of them making a cup of tea in the kitchen while you're visiting! Over 800 people work for the Royal Household, and a lucky few do live in suitably posh apartments (which are said to be lovely, but obviously not as grand as their royal bosses'). There are also staff quarters for a range of household workers, some of whom might live there too.    There's a way to tell if the King is there If you're passing by and wonder whether the King is in, well, you're in luck. Want to know what to look out for? It's all to do with a flag. If the Union Flag is flying over the palace, then you're out of luck - he's not there. However, if the Royal Standard flag is flying, then he is in the building, or at least making a visit.  Buckingham Palace is like an opulent mini-village  Besides the Throne Room and the sprawling grounds, there's a lot going on, inside and outside of the main building. The Royal Mews, built in 1824-1825, are home to luxurious vehicles, and horses that work during special events. The garden alone, filled with beautiful plants and trees, covers 42 acres, making it the largest private garden in London. You'll be able to see some of it, but most of it is closed to the public. There's also a cinema and a swimming pool, a Post Office and police station, a clinic and even an ATM. See London's magnificent palaces and everything it has to offer With The London Pass®, you can enjoy a tour not just of Buckingham Palace, but three other royal residences and the Houses of Parliament with Top Sights Tours.  Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️
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