Discover the Best Pubs
in Ireland and the UK

Along the storied banks of the Thames, Anchor Bankside in London stands as a testament to centuries of riverside revelry. Here, where Shakespeare himself allegedly found inspiration, the ancient beams and weathered stone walls continue their patient watch over modern merrymakers, bearing witness to the ever-flowing current of London life. Through the heavy wooden doors, you're enveloped by an atmosphere that feels both timeless and immediate. Warm amber lighting catches on brass fixtures and dark wood panels, creating pools of intimate warmth that seem to whisper tales of countless conversations past. The gentle murmur of present-day chatter mingles with creaking floorboards, each step a reminder of the countless feet that have crossed these same planks. The space unfolds like a living history book, with multiple levels offering different chapters of the same story. Ground floor gatherings spill out onto the riverside terrace, where the Thames provides a constant companion to conversation. Above, the rooftop terrace presents a contemporary twist on tradition, offering panoramic views that Shakespeare could only have imagined. Between these poles of earth and sky, cozy nooks and crannies invite quiet contemplation or conspiratorial whispers. In true London fashion, the pub manages that delicate balance between tourist destination and local haunt. Regulars settle into their familiar corners while visitors explore with wide-eyed wonder, all served with equal measures of warmth by staff who seem to understand their role as custodians of this historic space. The Anchor Bankside's team moves through the rooms with an easy efficiency, their knowledge of both drinks and history readily shared but never forced. The drinks menu reads like a carefully curated anthology of British pub culture. Traditional ales share space with craft beers, while the wine list offers thoughtful selections that wouldn't be out of place in more pretentious establishments. Cocktails bridge the gap between classic and contemporary, mixed with a respect for tradition but an eye toward modern tastes. Each drink seems fairly priced for central London, reflecting the pub's commitment to remaining accessible while maintaining quality. The kitchen honors its pub heritage with a menu that celebrates British classics without being bound by them. Fish and chips emerge golden and crisp, while heartier fare satisfies deeper hungers. The food here isn't attempting to revolutionize cuisine – instead, it offers the comfortable reliability that has always been the hallmark of a good public house. Live music occasionally fills the space, the notes bouncing off centuries-old walls in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. Dogs doze at their owners' feet while groups of friends claim tables for long afternoon sessions that stretch into evening. The pub's dog-friendly policy adds to its community feel, making it as welcoming to four-legged visitors as their two-legged companions. As day fades into evening, the Anchor Bankside takes on a different character. The lighting grows softer, conversations become more intimate, and the Thames reflects the city's lights like scattered stars. Weekend nights bring a livelier crowd, but the pub's multiple spaces ensure you can always find your preferred atmosphere, whether that's the bustling bar or a quiet corner with river views. This stretch of Bankside has seen London transform countless times, yet the Anchor remains a constant, adapting while maintaining its essential character. It's a place where you can feel the weight of history without being burdened by it, where the present moment is enriched by all that's come before. Consider this an invitation to add your own story to the Anchor Bankside's continuing narrative. Whether you're seeking a piece of London's history, a riverside respite, or simply a well-poured pint in good company, you'll find your place here among the centuries of souls who've sought the same. The Thames keeps flowing, the stories keep growing, and the Anchor Bankside in London remains, steadfast as its name suggests, a mooring point for moments worth remembering.

The Sherlock Holmes pub in London stands as more than just another watering hole in the city's extensive pub landscape - it's a cultural touchstone that bridges Victorian literary heritage with contemporary British pub culture. Nestled in the heart of Westminster, this establishment has become both a pilgrimage site for devotees of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary detective and a genuine London pub that maintains its authenticity despite its tourist-drawing namesake. Like many of London's historic pubs, the Sherlock Holmes tells multiple stories simultaneously. Its location near Charing Cross speaks to the area's evolution from a medieval crossing point to a Victorian transportation hub, and finally to its current status as a bustling intersection of tourism and local life. The pub's dedication to its literary theme isn't mere gimmick - it's a thoughtful homage that began when the building's owners acquired a significant collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia from the 1951 Festival of Britain. Walking through the pub's doors feels like stepping into a carefully curated intersection of fact and fiction. Victorian-era photographs and Holmesian artifacts line the walls, creating an atmosphere that manages to feel both scholarly and convivial. The ground floor maintains the traditional British pub atmosphere - all dark wood, brass fixtures, and the gentle hum of conversation mixing with the clink of pint glasses. It's here where the pub most successfully bridges its dual identity as both tourist destination and legitimate local establishment. The upstairs dining room offers a more formal experience, though "formal" in the comfortable, British sense of the word. The menu reflects modern London's culinary expectations while honoring pub traditions - the fish and chips consistently earn praise from visitors, while dishes like baked Camembert and seasonal pies demonstrate a kitchen that understands its audience wants both authenticity and quality. The beverage program similarly balances tradition with contemporary tastes, offering everything from cask ales to craft cocktails with clever Holmesian names. Service here embodies the British pub tradition of being simultaneously professional and casual. Staff members are well-versed in both the menu and the venue's history, happy to share stories about the building or recommend a proper pint. The pub's adoption of modern ordering technology through the Greene King app demonstrates its ability to evolve while maintaining its historical character. The clientele presents a fascinating cross-section of London life - tourists seeking that perfect London pub experience mingle with local office workers, while theatre-goers from nearby West End shows drop in for pre- or post-performance drinks. This mixing of audiences creates a uniquely London atmosphere that feels neither too touristy nor artificially local. The pub welcomes families until 9 PM, making it accessible for early evening meals while preserving its adult atmosphere later in the night. Dog-friendly policies and a welcoming attitude toward groups suggest a venue that understands its role in community life. The pub can get particularly lively on Saturday evenings, but this energy contributes to rather than detracts from its charm. Its payment policies reflect modern London - contactless payments are welcomed alongside traditional methods, though the ritual of ordering at the bar remains pleasantly unchanged. What makes the Sherlock Holmes particularly special is how it manages to be both a themed pub and a "proper pub" simultaneously. Unlike many tourist-oriented establishments that sacrifice authenticity for theme, this venue succeeds in both areas. The memorabilia and decorative elements feel like natural extensions of the space rather than forced additions, while the quality of food and drink meets the expectations of discerning locals. To experience the Sherlock Holmes pub in London is to participate in a living piece of the city's cultural fabric. Whether you're a detective fiction enthusiast, a pub traditionalist, or simply someone seeking a genuine London experience, this establishment offers something more meaningful than mere novelty. Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter atmosphere, or embrace the energetic evening crowds for a more dynamic London pub experience. Either way, you'll find yourself part of a continuing story that bridges centuries of London's social and literary history.

In the throbbing heart of London's Soho, O'Neill's Wardour Street stands as a testament to the timeless allure of the Irish pub. Here, beneath the warm glow of vintage pendant lights, the spirit of centuries-old hospitality mingles with the modern pulse of one of the world's most vibrant cities. The familiar emerald-green facade beckons passersby like an old friend, promising respite from London's relentless rhythm. Step inside, and the orchestration of sound envelops you - the melodic clash of glasses, the rise and fall of animated conversations, and on many nights, the soul-stirring notes of live music that seems to seep into the very woodwork. The pub's layout unfolds like a well-thumbed novel, each corner revealing its own character, from intimate nooks perfect for hushed conversations to expansive areas where groups gather in celebratory circles. The worn wooden floors tell stories of countless evenings, their patina deepened by generations of revelry. Above, exposed beams stretch across ceilings that have witnessed everything from quiet afternoon pints to roaring weekend celebrations. O'Neill's Wardour Street doesn't merely occupy space in London - it creates it, carving out moments where strangers become friends and friends become family. During daylight hours, sunlight filters through tall windows, casting long shadows across tables where businesspeople linger over lunch meetings and tourists rest weary feet. The menu speaks of thoughtful consideration rather than pretense, offering hearty pub classics that satisfy both tradition and contemporary tastes. Each dish arrives as a testament to the kitchen's understanding that good food needn't be complicated to be memorable. The bar stands as the pub's beating heart, its polished surface reflecting the careful choreography of skilled bartenders. Here, pints of Guinness are poured with reverence - the perfect 119.5-second ritual observed amid the swift commerce of spirit and mixer. The drinks selection strikes that delicate balance between accessibility and aspiration, where carefully curated craft beers sit comfortably alongside familiar favorites. As evening descends, O'Neill's Wardour Street transforms. The atmosphere thickens with possibility as the after-work crowd filters in, their ties loosened, their laughter easier. The music swells, sometimes live, always atmospheric, creating a soundtrack for countless London stories in the making. Sports enthusiasts gather around strategically placed screens, their collective gasps and cheers adding to the symphony of pub life. The staff move with the assured grace of those who understand their role in this daily theater. They're not just serving drinks; they're curating experiences, reading the room with the intuition of seasoned performers. Under the watchful eye of management, they ensure every guest feels like a regular, whether it's their first visit or their fiftieth. Breakfast through to last orders, O'Neill's adapts to the changing needs of its patrons. Morning coffee and full English breakfasts give way to business lunches, which blend into afternoon pints, before the evening unveils its own charismatic character. The kitchen's offering spans this daily journey, from morning sustenance to evening satisfaction, each meal served with equal care and consideration. In a city where trends come and go with dizzying speed, O'Neill's Wardour Street maintains its course with steady confidence. It's neither the cheapest nor the most expensive option in the area, but it offers something more valuable - authenticity. The price point reflects this honest approach, where quality and quantity meet in comfortable equilibrium. As London's streets grow quiet, O'Neill's Wardour Street remains a beacon of warmth and welcome. It invites you to become part of its ongoing story, to add your own chapter to the tales these walls could tell. Whether you're seeking solitude or celebration, a quick pint or a long evening of entertainment, this corner of Soho promises more than just another night out - it offers a genuine piece of London's living heritage, waiting to embrace you as one of its own.

In the labyrinthine heart of London's West End, Waxy O'Connor's London stands as a testament to what happens when Gothic architecture has a few too many pints and decides to get cozy with traditional Irish pub charm. This isn't just another London pub – it's a mythical woodland crossed with a medieval church that somehow wandered into Soho and decided to serve perfect pints of Guinness. Let's address the elephant – or rather, the tree – in the room. Yes, there's a 250-year-old beech tree growing through multiple floors, its ancient trunk and branches weaving through the pub like nature's own architectural statement piece. It's the kind of thing that makes first-time visitors stop dead in their tracks, pint midway to their lips, wondering if they've somehow stumbled through a portal into a Celtic fairy tale. The magic of Waxy O'Connor's London lies in its ability to be simultaneously grand and intimate. Spread across six levels, connected by a warren of wooden staircases that would make M.C. Escher scratch his head, each floor offers its own distinct personality. There are cozy nooks carved into dark wood alcoves where you can whisper secrets over a smooth Irish whiskey, and grand halls with soaring ceilings where stained glass windows cast kaleidoscope shadows across worn wooden floors. The intricate wood carvings adorning every surface tell stories of their own – if these walls could talk, they'd probably have a thick Irish brogue and know a thousand drinking songs by heart. As your eyes adjust to the warm, amber-lit interior, you'll notice the pub's carefully cultivated controlled chaos. The air is thick with the hoppy aroma of fresh-pulled pints mingling with the hearty scents wafting from the kitchen. The soundtrack is an ever-changing symphony of clinking glasses, burst of laughter, and the low hum of storytelling, occasionally punctuated by live traditional Irish music that makes even the most rhythm-challenged feet start tapping. Speaking of pints, Waxy's serves more Guinness than any other pub in the UK, and they've got the perfect pour down to an art form. Watch the cascade of tiny bubbles dance through the dark liquid while you wait for your pint to settle – it's like a tiny, drinkable fireworks show. The beer selection extends well beyond the black stuff, though, with a carefully curated selection of local and international brews that won't punish your wallet too severely. The food menu strikes that perfect balance between traditional pub fare and modern tastes. Their Irish stew could make a homesick Dubliner weep with joy, while contemporary options and vegetarian dishes ensure nobody leaves hungry. The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and the prices remain refreshingly reasonable for central London – you won't need to take out a second mortgage just to enjoy dinner and a few drinks. During major sporting events, the atmosphere transforms entirely. Multiple screens throughout the venue broadcast everything from Premier League matches to Six Nations rugby, creating an electric atmosphere that's somehow both raucous and welcoming. It's the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared victories and commiserated defeats. The staff deserve special mention – they navigate the complex layout with the ease of mountain goats, delivering drinks and food to seemingly impossible-to-find corners while maintaining the warm hospitality that's as much a part of Waxy's as the wooden beams. They're quick with a recommendation or a bit of banter, making even first-time visitors feel like regulars. Here's an insider tip: arrive early evening if you want to snag one of the coveted snugs, those private little wooden booths that feel like they've been transported straight from a Dublin pub circa 1920. They're perfect for small groups or intimate conversations, though you might need to send a search party for anyone who goes to the bar. So here's the deal – if you're in London and looking for a pub that's more than just a pub, Waxy O'Connor's is your spot. Whether you're planning a night out with friends, seeking the perfect spot for a unique date, or just want to experience one of London's most characterful drinking establishments, you'll find your perfect perch somewhere within these wooden walls. Just remember to look up – between the tree, the carvings, and the stained glass, some of the best views are above your head.

Oh great, another tourist wielding their smartphone at The Brazen Head in Dublin, Ireland's "oldest pub." Because what this city really needs is more Americans discovering its "hidden gems" that literally every guidebook has been raving about since the invention of tourism. And yet... I hate to admit it, but there's something undeniably charming about this weathered old establishment that's been serving pints since 1198. Yes, you read that right - this pub was pulling drafts while the Magna Carta was still in its first draft. The stone walls aren't just Instagram backdrop material; they've actually witnessed centuries of Dublin's history, from medieval merchants to modern-day merchants of mediocre selfies. Let's address the elephant in the room - or rather, the crowds of tourists in the courtyard. Yes, The Brazen Head is popular. Yes, you might have to wait for a table. And yes, that fact initially made my jaded critic's heart want to run screaming to some obscure neighborhood pub. But here's the thing: unlike many tourist traps that coast on reputation alone, this place actually delivers. The food, much to my chagrin, is frustratingly good. The beef stew (which I ordered fully expecting to write a scathing comparison to cat food) turns out to be the kind of hearty, rich comfort food that makes you understand why Irish cuisine isn't just a punchline to a cruel joke. The fish and chips, while not reinventing the wheel, manages to be exactly what you want - crispy, fresh, and mercifully un-greasy. Even the bacon and cabbage, a dish that sounds like a Depression-era punishment, emerges as a masterclass in simple, satisfying cooking. The three-floor layout means you can usually find a spot to suit your mood, assuming you can navigate past the inevitable stag party blocking the stairs. The ground floor maintains that authentic pub atmosphere (read: slightly cramped but cozy), while the upper levels offer a bit more breathing room and actual tables for dining. The outdoor courtyard, when Dublin's famously reliable weather permits, strikes that perfect balance between historic charm and functional drinking space. Speaking of drinking - because let's be honest, that's why you're really here - the pint-pulling technique is impressively consistent. The Guinness (yes, you have to order one, it's practically a law) comes with the perfect creamy head and that subtle hint of coffee that makes it the superior version of what you get elsewhere. They've also got a solid selection of other local brews, though ordering anything else might earn you some side-eye from the regulars who've been holding up the bar since what feels like 1198. Live music features regularly, and unlike many venues where traditional Irish music feels about as authentic as a leprechaun at a shopping mall, the sessions here actually manage to feel genuine. Maybe it's the acoustics of those ancient walls, or maybe it's just that everything sounds better after your second pint. The service strikes that quintessentially Irish balance between friendly and efficiently brusque. They won't be your best friend, but they'll keep your glass full and your food hot, which is really all you need. The prices, while not cheap, aren't the daylight robbery you might expect from a place with this much tourist appeal. Look, I wanted to hate The Brazen Head. I really did. It would have been so satisfying to dismiss it as just another tourist trap trading on its history. But despite the crowds, despite the tour buses occasionally disgorging their contents at the door, despite my own cynical predispositions, I have to concede that this place earns its reputation. So fine, go to The Brazen Head. Join the masses in experiencing a genuine piece of Dublin's history. Just don't expect me to admit I told you to. And for heaven's sake, make a reservation if you're planning on eating - even a critic's seal of approval doesn't grant you the power to skip the queue.

If Dublin had a beating heart, it would be The Temple Bar Pub. This legendary watering hole isn't just a pub - it's the pub that launched a thousand stories, anchoring the cobblestoned cultural quarter that shares its name. While tourists flock here like moths to a flame, there's a reason The Temple Bar Pub in Dublin has maintained its crown as the city's most photographed drinking establishment for decades. Step inside, and you'll quickly understand why even the most jaded locals can't help but feel a flutter of pride when passing through these hallowed doors. The deep red exterior gives way to a labyrinth of wooden nooks and snugs, each corner holding enough secrets to fill a book of Irish folklore. The walls, adorned with vintage photos and memorabilia, tell stories spanning centuries - though they're keeping the best tales to themselves, mind you. The real magic of The Temple Bar Pub happens when the sun starts to dip and the live music kicks in. Traditional Irish sessions flow as naturally as the Guinness here, with musicians who could make a tin whistle sing like an angel's chorus. You haven't truly experienced Dublin until you've found yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers from every corner of the globe, all unified in an impromptu chorus of "Whiskey in the Jar" while raising a perfectly poured pint to the ceiling. Speaking of pints, yes, they're charging premium prices here - but you're not just paying for the drink, you're buying a ticket to the best show in town. The bartenders are artists in their own right, executing the sacred six-step Guinness pour with the precision of brain surgeons and the flair of Broadway performers. Watch closely as they create the perfect creamy head, and you'll understand why some consider this place the Vatican of Irish drinking culture. The food menu might surprise you - this isn't your standard pub grub. Their seafood, particularly the fresh oysters, rivals some of Dublin's finest restaurants. The kitchen somehow manages to elevate classic Irish comfort food without losing its soul. Their Irish stew, served with brown bread that could make your grandmother weep with joy, is worth every euro of its high-end price tag. During peak hours, The Temple Bar Pub thrums with an energy that's almost tangible. The crowd is an eclectic mix - wide-eyed tourists capturing every moment on their phones, seasoned regulars who've been holding down the same bar stool since before the Celtic Tiger roared, and young Dubliners showing their foreign friends "the real Ireland." Yes, it's busy. Yes, it's boisterous. And yes, that's exactly how it should be. For the best experience, arrive either early afternoon to catch the daily traditional music session or after 9 PM when the evening entertainment kicks into high gear. The pub offers an all-day menu, but there's something special about nursing a late-morning Irish coffee while watching the world wake up through those iconic windows. If you're feeling peckish, their full Irish breakfast could cure any ailment known to mankind. What sets The Temple Bar Pub apart from Dublin's countless other drinking establishments is its ability to be simultaneously a tourist attraction and a legitimate Irish pub. While other venues might lose their soul to commercialization, this place has managed to maintain its authenticity while welcoming the world through its doors. The staff treats everyone - from the local postman to international celebrities - with the same warm Irish welcome. The Temple Bar Pub sits at the intersection of history and modernity in Dublin's cultural quarter. It's where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary craic, where first-time visitors become lifelong friends, and where every night feels like St. Patrick's Day. Yes, you'll pay more than at the neighborhood pub around the corner, but consider it an investment in an experience that defines Dublin itself. Don't just add it to your Dublin itinerary - make it your evening's destination. Arrive thirsty, leave your inhibitions at the door, and prepare to join the countless others who've found their Irish soul in this cathedral of craic. After all, as they say in Dublin, "There are no strangers here, only friends you haven't met yet."