Unusual Pubs and Pub Names

This page is named after my other half who has generously volunteered to try out any pubs of interest I happen to come across in my research for this site. Below you'll find some of our recommendations, based on funny names, interesting decor or lots of history; and below that, some other historical pub-related titbits

Boot and Flogger

I came across this one while on a walk in Borough which explored Charles Dickens old haunts during his time in the Mint area of the city (Borough). Until recently this unique pub was the only one in England able to sell wine without a license. 19th century furnishings and good wine are the pluses, an early closing time (8pm) the only minus. You'll find it just opposite the Cross Bones graveyard, so it's a good place to have a sit down and a bite to eat after your quirky travelling.

Argyll Arms

This pub, being very close to Oxford Circus and Regent Street, gets very busy so try visiting at a quiet time of day. The inside is magnificent - a warren of Victorian booths, etched glass screens and mirros. The name of the pub and street come from the Duke of Argyll who had a mansion where the Palladium now stands.

The Pineapple

You'll find the Victorian pub the Pineapple at Leverton Street, Kentish Town. Worth visiting just for the pineapples decorating the outside of the pub. It was very nearly closed in December 2001, but for an admirable campaign run by locals and luminaries such as Rufus Sewell, Ken Livingstone and Andrew Motion to keep it open. The full story is told on CAMRA at Saving the Pineapple

The Only Running Footman

Formerly known as I Am The Only Running Footman, this one's in Mayfair, named after the poor dears who ran in front of wealthy men's carriages in the 18th century. Decent gastropub food in the Mayfair area (Charles Street, just off Berkley Square).

Prospect of Whitby

Named after a ship docked nearby, this Wapping pub was formerly known as the Devil's Tavern because of the smugglers and villains who used to gather there in the 18th century. It actually dates back to 1543 and as such is the oldest pub in London. You'll find it at 57 Wapping Wall. A 400 year old stone floor, nautical bric a brac, noose hanging outside and former regulars Dickens and Pepys it's a must-see.

The Bleeding Heart Tavern

Featuring in Little Dorrit, this restaurant/bar near Chancery Lane tube station in the City has a long and strange history. It featured in Little Dorrit - Dickens found some relish of ancient greatness about it and has a fascinating murder mystery attached to it. Lady Elizabeth Hatton was supposed to have danced with the devil on the premises (or the European ambassador - much less interesting) and was found the next morning dead, her heart pumping blood. You can see more of the story on the Bleeding Heart's own web page. The restaurant specialises in contemporary french cuisine, but don't go if you're in a rush - service can be a tad slow.

The Black Friar

A pub that looks like an arts and crafts version of a church. Georgeous mosaics and lots of cheerful monks. This pub fills up with city workers on weekday evenings, but any other time is a lovely haven not far from St Paul's Cathedral. Some pictures of the interior are at pubs.com. And they do very nice fish and chips.