Embark on a literary pub crawl through London, following the footsteps of iconic authors, musicians, and actors. This unique journey takes you to charming pubs, each connected to a celebrated figure, where you can raise a glass in their memory. From the haunts of H.G. Wells and J.M. Barrie to the stomping grounds of John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix, this literary pub crawl offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and good cheer.
The Time Machine and Beyond
Start your literary pub crawl at the Windsor Castle pub, a Grade II listed Georgian building with a charming turret-styled top. Located at 13 Hanover Street, this pub holds a special place in literary history as the former residence of H.G. Wells, the author of science fiction classics like The Time Machine and War of the Worlds. Enjoy a refreshing Litovel Lager while imagining Wells crafting his imaginative tales within these very walls.
Next, head to the Swans Bayswater pub at 100 Bayswater Road, once home to the legendary author of Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie. It’s said that the drinking terms “one for the road” and “on the wagon” were coined here, adding a touch of whimsical charm to this literary landmark. Savor a pint of London Pride, a fitting tribute to the author who never grew up.
From Miss Marple to the Mousetrap
Continue your journey to Sheffield Terrace, where you’ll find the Elephant & Castle pub nestled among Holland Park’s quiet residential streets. This award-winning pub holds a special place for fans of Agatha Christie, the acclaimed detective novelist and playwright, who once resided at 58 Sheffield Terrace. Known for her iconic characters like Miss Marple and the record-breaking play The Mousetrap, Christie’s presence adds an air of mystery and intrigue to this charming pub. Immerse yourself in the pub’s ambiance and savor one of their 25 award-winning ales, perhaps a New World Pale or a Sunny Republic’s Shark Head.
Your literary pub crawl then leads you to the Coopers Arms pub, a Gothic-inspired destination with a striking red leather interior. This pub is located on the King’s Road, not far from 34 Tite Street, the former home of Oscar Wilde, the celebrated Irish poet and playwright who shook the literary world with his controversial wit and poignant prose. Raise a glass of blood-red rioja to this iconoclastic writer, who defied convention and challenged societal norms with his brilliant works.
From Psycho to the Italian Job
Next, head to the Trafalgar pub, a Chelsea gem known for its extensive drinks menu and secluded outdoor seating. This charming pub is just a short walk from 34 Tite Street, the former home of Oscar Wilde, where you can toast this legendary writer with a classic G&T.
The next stop on your literary pub crawl takes you to the Stanhope Arms pub, a traditional pub serving up classic pub grub. This pub is located at 153 Cromwell Road, the former residence of Alfred Hitchcock, the cinematic mastermind behind the chilling thriller Psycho. Grab a chilled Kopparberg if the sun is out, and imagine Hitchcock creating his iconic suspense-filled masterpieces while enjoying a pint at this very pub.
Your literary journey continues to the Queen’s Arms pub, a lively establishment with a great selection of drinks and food. This pub is located near 1 Queen’s Gate, the former home of Michael Caine, the celebrated actor known for his roles in films like The Italian Job and The Dark Knight. Indulge in a Sunday roast while envisioning Caine’s captivating performances on the silver screen.
From Gone With The Wind to James Bond
The Duke of Wellington pub, situated near 54 Eaton Square, is the next stop on your literary adventure. This pub, originally a reading room for 19th-century locals, holds a special place in cinematic history as the former residence of Vivien Leigh, the Indian-born Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in classics like Gone With The Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire. Order a Buddy Holly-honouring special, the Holly Hop, from Britain’s oldest brewery, Shepherd Neame, while reflecting on Leigh’s captivating performances on the silver screen.
The Botanist pub, a classy wine-bar-cum-restaurant in Sloane Square, is your next destination. This stylish establishment is near 22 Ebury Street, the former home of Ian Fleming, the creator of the iconic James Bond character. Savor a Modena Royale cocktail with strawberries and Prosecco, a perfect summer indulgence, as you imagine Fleming crafting his thrilling espionage novels.
From Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? To The Beatlemania
Your literary pub crawl concludes at The Flask, a trendy and sophisticated pub known for its sun-soaked terrace. This pub is near 6 Lyndhurst Road, the former home of Richard Burton, the renowned actor known for his dramatic roles in films like Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and his tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth Taylor. Get a bottle of whisky and glasses, head to the terrace, and settle in for a night of reflection, remembering Burton’s magnetic screen presence.
The final stop on your literary pub crawl is The Windsor Castle pub, where you can raise a glass to John Lennon, the legendary Beatle who once lived at 34 Montagu Square. This pub, a hub for royals and celebrities, features pictures of the famous and Guy Gibson’s log book from the Dambuster raid. Enjoy a pint of ale or lager, soaking up the atmosphere and celebrating the musical legacy of the Beatle who revolutionized music.
