Best Pubs and Bars Near Buckingham Palace

Enjoy top drinking spots close to Buckingham Palace.

Published: April 3, 2025

A visit to Buckingham Palace offers a peek into the grandeur of British royalty, and what better way to complement your experience than with a stop at one of the nearby pubs or bars? Whether you're in the mood for a chic cocktail lounge or a cozy traditional pub, you'll find plenty of options around this historic landmark.

High-end

The Goring Bar

Walking distance: 5 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Victoria
Known for: Classic cocktails and luxurious setting
Google rating: 4.5

The Goring Bar at The Goring Hotel is known for its classic cocktails, expertly crafted by experienced mixologists, all within a plush and stylish setting.

The bar's refined interior, complete with sumptuous furnishings and elegant decor, provides the ideal backdrop for enjoying a cocktail like the signature Goring Negroni. The attentive service and intimate ambiance make it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

The Goring Bar combines heritage with luxury, making it an exceptional choice for those near Buckingham Palace seeking a touch of class.

Dukes Bar

Walking distance: 15 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Green Park
Known for: Iconic martinis and classic charm
Google rating: 4.6

Dukes Bar, nestled within Dukes Hotel, is famed for its martinis, offering a quintessentially British experience. The intimate and sophisticated atmosphere makes it a favourite for those seeking an upscale evening out.

Renowned for their Martini menu, crafted tableside, the bartenders at Dukes offer an unmatched level of expertise.

With its iconic drinks and distinguished ambiance, Dukes Bar provides a luxurious treat for those near Buckingham Palace.

The Rose Lounge

Walking distance: 10 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Green Park
Known for: Elegant teas and refined cocktails
Google rating: 4.4

The Rose Lounge inside the Sofitel St James is a haven of elegance. Known for its exquisite teas by day, it transforms into a delightful cocktail lounge by night.

The lounge’s cocktail menu showcases refined creations with floral and botanical influences. Try their signature Lavender Bliss, a fragrant blend of gin, lavender, and citrus.

The Rose Lounge provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it a perfect choice near Buckingham Palace.

The Stafford Wine Cellar

Walking distance: 12 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Green Park
Known for: Extensive wine selection and historic ambiance
Google rating: 4.5

The Stafford Wine Cellar offers a unique experience with its vast collection of fine wines set in an atmospheric and historic cellar.

The cellar’s expert sommeliers are available to guide you through wine selections, ensuring an enriching tasting experience. The rustic setting, with its vaulted ceilings and storied walls, provides the backdrop for some vintage grape action.

For those near Buckingham Palace with a taste for excellent wine and rich history, The Stafford Wine Cellar is a must-visit.

Mid-range

The Clarence

Walking distance: 7 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: St. James’s Park
Known for: Traditional ales and classic British fare
Google rating: 4.3

The Clarence is a charming pub that welcomes you with its traditional British warmth and a selection of classic ales, located a short walk from Buckingham Palace.

The interior features cozy seating and classic pub décor, providing the perfect setting for enjoying a pint of London Pride or a hearty meal like fish and chips.

With its authentic feel and quality offerings, The Clarence is an ideal spot for those seeking a true British pub experience near Buckingham Palace. And sometimes, that’s all you want.

The Dog and Duck

Walking distance: 12 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Green Park
Known for: Craft ales and lively atmosphere
Google rating: 4.4

The Dog and Duck excellent selection of craft ales make it a favourite for those seeking a lively night out just a few minutes' walk from Buckingham Palace.

The bar offers an impressive range of ales, rotating taps that showcase the best of local and regional brews, making it great for sessions or just a jar or two.

With its mix of tradition and contemporary touches, The Dog and Duck offers a delightful experience for visitors near Buckingham Palace.

The Albert

Walking distance: 8 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Victoria
Known for: Victorian charm and hearty British meals
Google rating: 4.2

The Albert is a Victorian-era pub that oozes historical charm with its beautifully preserved architecture and inviting atmosphere. Known for its traditional ales and hearty meals, it offers a genuine taste of British history.

The menu features classics like bangers and mash, complemented by a selection of well-kept ales.

With its rich history and welcoming ambiance, The Albert makes for a memorable visit just a short walk from Buckingham Palace. It’s a perfect spot for those wanting to enjoy a bit of nostalgia along with their pint.

The Lord Moon of the Mall

Walking distance: 15 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Charing Cross
Known for: Great value and traditional pub food
Google rating: 4.3

The Lord Moon of the Mall offers a delightful mix of value and traditional British pub charm. Situated close to Buckingham Palace, this pub is a beloved haunt for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a pint.

The pub serves a range of classic ales and traditional dishes like steak and kidney pie. The spacious interior and friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming spot for everyone.

The Lord Moon of the Mall stands out for its value and classic pub experience, making it a great choice for those near Buckingham Palace.

Budget-friendly

The Buckingham Arms

Walking distance: 8 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: St. James’s Park
Known for: Traditional pub charm and budget-friendly options
Google rating: 4.2

The Buckingham Arms is one of the most popular spots near Buckingham Palace. Known for its budget-friendly selections, this pub provides a cozy retreat in the heart of the city.

You’ll find a variety of affordable ales and comfort food, such as shepherd’s pie and fish and chips.

The Buckingham Arms is perfect for those looking to enjoy a traditional pub experience on a budget. It promises warmth, character, and value just steps from Buckingham Palace.

The Feathers

Walking distance: 6 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: St. James’s Park
Known for: Cozy vibe and affordable drinks
Google rating: 4.3

The Feathers presents a welcoming spot with its cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks, ideal for those visiting Buckingham Palace.

Renowned for its reasonably priced ales and hearty pub fare, The Feathers serves up classics like beef pie and fish and chips.

For visitors looking to unwind near Buckingham Palace without overspending, The Feathers is an excellent choice. It combines charm and value, making it a favourite among budget-conscious travellers.

The Cask and Glass

Walking distance: 10 minutes from Buckingham Palace
Nearest tube: Victoria
Known for: Intimate setting and real ales
Google rating: 4.4

The Cask and Glass is a hidden gem known for its intimate setting and selection of real ales. This quaint pub offers a cozy escape just a short walk from Buckingham Palace, providing a genuine taste of local London.

Enjoy a range of well-crafted ales and traditional snacks that deliver on both taste and affordability.

For a truly authentic and budget-friendly experience near Buckingham Palace, The Cask and Glass is a must-visit. It promises a delightful retreat where you can enjoy quality drinks without breaking the bank.

For more London fun, check out our Buckingham Palace v Kensington Palace comparison, and burn some pints off on the city’s best walking tours.

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This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

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Must-See London Attractions & Sights - London Pass

Don’t leave London until you've seen these must-see London attractions and landmarks! With a city filled with so many places to go and must-see sights in London, it’s hard to find time to do everything. From royal residences to peaceful city breaks (and even a cheeky pub visit), there's loads to make a priority on your travel itinerary with only a few days to make the most of it. We’ve made it simple for you with our ultimate guide to the must-see London attractions, make sure you've ticked these off your list - and score a sweet discount along the way by signing up for the London Pass. Tower of London The Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in the capital. As well as the Beefeaters and Crown Jewels, see if you can count the six legendary ravens that are said to guard to tower and court from ruin. Westminster Abbey Visit Westminster Abbey to take in its architecture and English heritage and learn about the royal celebrations and famous tombstones in the Abbey’s grounds. Walk around the cemetery where figureheads and national heroes were laid to rest, including Jeoffrey Chaucer, Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. Millennium Bridge Walk along this modern pedestrianized footbridge that links you from Bankside to the City and marvel at the views East and West over the River. The sleek, steel design was opened in 2000 and is nicknamed the “Wobbly” bridge by Londoners and it’s the perfect route to the Tate Modern for any culture vultures – and those with sturdy knees. It's also the site of a popular Harry Potter scene and one of the stops on our guide to all things boy wizard in London. Big Ben Make sure you get the essential souvenir photo in front of Big Ben to show off to your friends and family. As one of London’s most iconic monuments, the bell tower at the North of Westminster Palace was completed in 1858 and its clock face is made up of 213 pieces of opal glass. If you time it right, you can hear the Westminster Quarters that ring on the quarter hours. Hyde Park Take things slow at London's famed green pocket, one of the many must see sights in London. This sprawling park is always filled with locals lying about on the grass or cycling their way through its spiderwebbed paths, especially when the weather gets particularly warm in the summer. Do as the Londoners do and come armed with a blanket, a few ciders and a picnic lunch. Buckingham Palace Pay King Charlie a visit at her official royal residence, just a stone's throw from Trafalgar Square and Green Park. Most people tend to mill about outside the towering black gates, flanked by imposing looking guards side-eyeing tourists taking selfies. Although the palace isn't usually open to the public, in the summer months it opens up specifically for tourists - keep an eye on the website for more details. Borough Market If you’ve had a day of sightseeing around the Tower of London and need to refuel, enter into the bustling Borough Market, just beside London Bridge station. Underneath the old glass ceiling, the original market has been restored and sells everything from farm made cheese to freshly caught fish, and every pastry in between! Don’t forget to take change, as card machines are hard to come by. The tube The easiest way to get around, the tube is a must-do when you’re travelling around London. If you want to do it properly, try catch the Metropolitan line (which opened in 1863) to say you’ve travelled on the oldest tube line in London! For an overground experience, jump onto the DLR at Bank and take it all the way to Canary Wharf - a jam packed financial district towering with skyscrapers. A West End show There’s plenty of things to do at night in London, but if you’re stuck book yourself a West End show. A huge heritage of the capital, London’s West End is famous for producing award winning plays and launching the careers of some of the most respected actors in the world. For family-friendly musicals, check out The Lion King, School of Rock and Wicked or venture out to the Book of Mormon for a sillier adult take on the genre. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre “To be, or not to be” is one of the most quoted lines in history, so pay homage to our most famous playwright Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre. Learn about its history, English productions in 1500-1600s and the trials and tribulations of the theatre – and Shakespeare himself – within England. A London pub The English love their pubs, so duck into a traditional London pub for a slice of British culture. Why not try some London Pride or a pint of British cider for a true taste of the city. Sam Smith pubs are popular among the locals, so why not try The Chandos, nestled in the heart of Westminster for a spot of sightseeing and relaxation. Why not pop by some of the Oldest Pubs in London! A London black cab Meet the real Londoners who know the city inside and out; the cabbies. Jump in a black cab, even if it’s to take you round the corner, and they’ll let you into their world of cockney rhyming slang and city secrets.

Kirsten McCroskrie

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Kensington Palace vs Buckingham Palace Comparison

You don’t have to be a royalist to be awed by the stunning palaces owned by the royal family. In total, they own 30 estates, but Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace are perhaps two of the finest. From the Changing the Guard to the opulence of the buildings, the rich history to the natural beauty of the gardens, they’re both stunning constructions. If you want a little background information before visiting, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll discuss the similarities and differences, their respective histories, how to get to each, and what to do when you’re there. A Brief History of Kensington Palace Kensington Palace is a royal residence in West London and the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The palace has undergone many changes throughout its history and housed many famous royals, including being the birthplace of Queen Victoria and the home of Princess Diana. The palace, originally named Nottingham House before being renamed Kensington Palace in 1689, suffered extensive damage by bombing in the Second World War, with restoration taking place in 1952. A Brief History of Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous buildings in the world. It is the official London residence of the King and one of the largest palaces in Europe. This palace has witnessed many important historical events and served as the residence for important British monarchs like Queen Victoria and King George III. Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, Buckingham Palace has undergone several important renovations and expansions. Today, it serves as a symbol of the monarchy and its history. For perspective on just how big Buckingham Palace actually is, it has 775 rooms, and the garden is the largest private garden in London. Where is Kensington Palace and how do I get there? Kensington Palace, in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, is open to the public on selected days, so anyone can visit Kensington Palace and see its magnificent state rooms. The palace is just a short walk away from Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, which makes it a great day out for the whole family. How to get to Kensington Palace by tube: The nearest underground tube stations are High Street Kensington and Queensway. Both will require around a 10-minute walk from the station to the palace. Where is Buckingham Palace and how do I get there? Buckingham Palace is in the City of Westminster, central London, close to Westminster Palace and Westminster Abbey. It’s open to the public for tours during the summer months. The palace also hosts many state banquets, receptions, and ceremonies throughout the year. How to get to Buckingham Palace by tube: The nearest tube station to Buckingham Palace is Westminster, where you’ll need to take a short walk, 3 or 4 minutes, to reach the royal grounds. Things to do at Kensington Palace Take a guided tour of Kensington Palace to learn about the fascinating history of this London landmark. The tour includes the State Apartments, the King’s and Queen’s Staircases, King’s Gallery, sunken gardens, and more. Keep your camera handy as you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take jaw-dropping photos. For example, The King’s Gallery is maintained to a level that looks exactly as it did when transformed for King George I in 1725. An almost 300-year-old time capsule. The Jewel Room at Kensington Palace is home to an incredible display of jewelry, including specially commissioned gems for Queen Victoria, a diamond and emerald tiara, an emerald necklace, and so much more. The level of opulence and craftsmanship is a feast for the eyes. Kensington Palace Gardens is a treat for all the family. You’ll need comfortable shoes to explore the 240 acres, including the wildflowers, formal garden, and cradle walk. It’s a vast property, so allow yourself 2 hours for the Palace, and another 2 to fully enjoy the gardens. Things to do at Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace is the residence of the King of England and the administrative headquarters of the royal family. Buckingham Palace is also one of the most iconic and recognized structures in the world. Time your visit for the Changing the Guard. It’s free to view at 11.00 AM on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday and daily in the summer. Inside the grounds, you have the option to tour The State Rooms, Royal Mews, gardens, and more. The Royal Mews are a working stable, steeped in royal history, with the opportunity to view the iconic 260-year-old Gold State Coach. Tour The Queen’s Gallery to cast your eyes on priceless artistic pieces and artifacts. There are also fabulous global exhibitions, including a collection exploring 300 years of cultural exchange between the British and Japanese royal and imperial families, including rare pieces of porcelain, samurai armor, embroidery, and diplomatic gifts. With so much to see and do, it’s recommended to spend between 2-4 hours. Conclusion Both Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace are incredible buildings. If you’re a history buff, art lover, jewelry aficionado, or just looking for some great photos to boost your feed, you won’t be disappointed after visiting these 2 iconic landmarks. They’re also both perfectly situated, surrounded by plenty of other attractions such as Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, The Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.

Adam Fraiel

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Best Pubs and Bars Near Buckingham Palace

High-end

The Goring Bar

Dukes Bar