Pubs are an essential part of British life, and after ten years in the UK, I’ve grown fond of evening drinks and Sunday roasts. A pub with a rich history always catches my eye, which is why I visited The George Inn last week.
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON takes you inside one of London’s most historic and charming galleried inns.
The George Inn, London
Tucked away near London Bridge, The George Inn is a remarkable slice of history. With its distinctive galleried architecture, centuries of fascinating stories, and literary connections, it’s one of London’s most unique and enchanting pubs.
Believed to have opened in the 16th century, this historic inn has long been treasured by literary legends, with both William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens said to have admired its charm.
A few fascinating facts about The George Inn:
- Its front galleries were once a common feature of London inns.
- Many similar structures were lost during World War II, making The George particularly special.
- The original George Inn was destroyed by fire in 1676.
- Charles Dickens frequented the inn when it operated as a coffee house, even referencing it in his novel Little Dorrit.
- Over the years, the entrance has welcomed historical icons like Winston Churchill and Princess Margaret, as well as modern celebrities including Madonna and Beyoncé.
Now managed by The National Trust, The George Inn stands as the last remaining galleried inn in London. A must-visit for history lovers!
London’s only remaining galleried Inn
Stepping inside, it’s easy to see why The George Inn holds this unique title. From its historic galleries to its vibrant courtyard, it offers a rare glimpse into London’s past.
By the 16th century, The George Inn was already well-known due to its strategic location near London Bridge, the only connection between the City of London and Southwark at the time.
Travellers often stayed overnight in Southwark while conducting business in the City. The bedrooms were located upstairs along the galleried section, giving guests a view over the bustling courtyard below.
The George food & drink offer
No visit to The George Inn is complete without enjoying its food and drink. From hearty traditional pub fare to refreshing drinks, the inn perfectly blends history with a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
With two main buildings housing bars and restaurants, visitors are spoiled for choice whether seeking lunch, dinner, or just a drink. You can also reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment.
For lunch, we chose The Coach House Bar, one of the two buildings across from the historic galleries. The name reflects its original purpose: a place for travellers to park their coaches overnight while the gates of nearby London Bridge were locked. The interior still hints at its past, with tables reminiscent of the former stables.
We indulged in two delightful mains: the classic Duck Hash and a vegetarian Pulled Mushroom Chilli.
Both were perfect for sharing, and while the Mushroom Chilli wasn’t the most photogenic, its taste was unforgettable.
Everything you need for a great visit
The pub offers outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying summer weekends, though weekdays are best for a quieter experience.
For companies or business groups, The George Inn also offers room bookings, making it perfect for meetings in a historic, inspiring setting. Walking through the inn, you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.
Every nook and cranny, creaky staircase, and winding corridor adds to the atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic wooden theatre like the Globe Theatre.
Visiting The George Inn is more than just a trip to a pub, it’s a journey into London’s living history.
Feeling inspired? If you’re planning a visit, I’d love to hear about your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Craving more culinary adventures? See all my top restaurant & pubs recommendations here!
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To go further:
The George Inn website here
Address: 77 Borough High Street, Southwark, London SE1 1NH
Nearest tube station: London Bridge
