5 blooming lovely London pubs

Pubs in Britain have a long tradition of using attractive potted plants and hanging baskets to brighten up their buildings. To celebrate International Beer Day on 6 August, discover five London pubs that have taken floral displays to the next level to create some of the prettiest places for a pint in the city.

The Churchill Arms, Kensington

The Churchill Arms pub, covered in flowers.

Located in the swanky Kensington area of London, The Churchill Arms is the mother of all floral pub displays with more than 100 tubs of colourful flowers and plants decorating its exterior. Step inside and you’ll be greeted with all sorts of bric-a-brac including lamps, bells, flags and framed posters. If you're feeling peckish, you won’t find fish and chips on the menu at this traditional London pub. Instead, you’ll find tantalising Thai dishes like spring rolls, roast duck curry, and pad Thai to complement its wonderful selection of cask beer and ale. 

The Churchill Arms

The Wych Elm, Kingston

Get a taste of the country life at The Wych Elm pub, situated in west London. With pots, planters and hanging baskets, this cute white pub is an oasis from the bustling city. As for the beer, you’ll find a selection of craft brews and changing guest ales on tap. If you’re visiting the pub on a Friday, stick around for their Curry Night – a main course curry, side dish, rice and naan for £13.75.

The Wych Elm

The Anchor, Bankside

In the cobbled streets of Bankside on the River Thames, you’ll find The Anchor pub with its distinctive red window frames and shutters. During the warmer months the pub is a blooming marvel with colourful foliage decorating its façade. Enjoy magnificent views of the River Thames from its first floor balcony and first floor terrace. 

The Anchor

Hemingford Arms, Barnsbury

The Hemingford Arms, pub in Barnsbury, North London.

Slightly off the beaten track but well worth a visit is the Hemingford Arms in north London. The pub is draped in ivy while its interior is covered with signs, as well as vintage theatre and film posters. Look up and you’ll see all sorts of knick-knacks dangling from the ceiling. The Hemingford Arms has frequent live music sessions and regularly screens live Premier League and Champions League matches.

Hemingford Arms

The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park

Staying in north London, you’ll find The Faltering Fallback Irish pub perched on the corner of a residential street behind Finsbury Park. Its exterior is overflowing with foliage and flowers. The pub’s crowning glory is its upstairs beer garden – an impressive mix of decking, sculptures and flora. With several secluded spots dotted around the garden, find a place to relax, enjoy your beer and the impressive greenery.

The Faltering Fullback

Restrictions on travel to and around Britain are in place due to Covid-19. You are encouraged to always check individual websites for the latest information, as details are subject to change.

02 Apr 2022(last updated)