Best Pubs and Bars Near Buckingham Palace

Enjoy top drinking spots close to Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace

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 

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 

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 

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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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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