At 400 years old, The Olde Angel on Fleet Street still serves ale in the same wooden barrels that were poured in 1620. Walking into that snug, the scent of peat‑smoked whisky lingers, and the bartenders still use the same copper ale‑cask tongs that have never been replaced. If you’re looking for a taste of history, that’s the first stop on any weekend escape.
Hidden Speakeasy in Shoreditch
Beyond the neon of Brick Lane lies Backroom, a 1920s‑style speakeasy that opens only after 9 pm. The entrance is a nondescript door behind a bookshop, and the interior is lit by Edison bulbs and velvet drapes. The cocktail menu is a 12‑item list, each drink named after a forgotten jazz legend. The price point is £12 per cocktail, and the bar’s secret is that the last drink on the menu is a gin‑based concoction that has won a regional award in 2023.
Rooftop Revelry with a View
For a skyline that never sleeps, head to Skyline & Co. on the 30th floor of a 40‑storey office tower. They serve a signature “London Fog” cocktail that blends Earl Grey tea with vanilla gin. The terrace seats 80 guests, and the view of the Thames at sunset is worth the extra £5 on the bar tab. If you’re lucky, the bartender will toss a silver coin into the fountain below—a tradition that started in 2015 and still runs today.
Craft Beer Corner in Camden
Camden Market isn’t just stalls and street food; it’s also home to Brews & Bites, a micro‑brewery that churns out 20 different brews a year. Their flagship IPA, “Red Brick,” has a 6.5% ABV and won a bronze medal at the 2022 London Beer Awards. The bar offers a tasting flight for £15, which includes a 200ml sample of each brew. The best part? The taproom is open 10 am to 10 pm every day, so you can start your day with a cold pint and finish it with a nightcap.
Historic Pubs Worth a Visit
- The George Inn – the only galleried coaching inn in London, now a pub with a 15‑year‑old ale selection.
- The White Lion – located in Soho, famous for its 18th‑century wood paneling and a nightly jazz night.
- The Old Bell – a 14th‑century pub in Bethnal Green that still uses a 300‑year‑old brass kettle for boiling tea.
Each of these establishments offers a unique slice of London’s past, and they’re all within a 30‑minute tube ride from central stations.
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Planning Your Weekend
Map out a route that starts with the historic pubs in the morning, moves to the craft beer corner for a midday break, and finishes with a rooftop bar under the stars. Allocate at least an hour for each stop to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a drink without rushing. Remember to check each venue’s opening hours; some close early on weekends, and the speakeasy requires a reservation.
Final Thoughts
London’s bar scene is a mosaic of eras—old, new, and everything in between. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft beer enthusiast, or a cocktail connoisseur, there’s a corner of the city that will feel like home. Pack a notebook to jot down your favorite drinks, and let the city’s hidden gems guide you through a weekend that’s as memorable as it is enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Olde Angel London’s oldest pub?
It opened in 1620 and still uses the original wooden barrels and copper ale‑cask tongs, keeping the same brewing traditions.
Can I visit the pub on a weekend?
Yes, The Olde Angel welcomes visitors throughout the week, and its snug atmosphere is ideal for a weekend escape.
Is there a special event at the pub?
Occasionally, the pub hosts heritage evenings that showcase historic ales and share its rich history with guests.
What’s the best time to visit?
Arrive early to enjoy the cozy atmosphere before the crowds, or stay until 9 pm for a quieter, more intimate experience.