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Looking for the most fun bars and pubs in Central London near Holborn? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Londoner in search of something new, the heart of the city promises vibrant bars, quirky activity pubs, and historic spots perfect for relaxing or getting lively with friends. Staying at or near the Thistle London Holborn places you moments from popular watering holes, game-filled bars, and memorable date night venues.
Explore unmissable Holborn bars and pubs that cater to every taste, from classic cask ales to innovative cocktails. Delve into Holborn’s historic and quirky gems, enjoy bars with games and activities, and discover perfect date night spots for couples. Make sure to use our quick guide for after-dark adventures in London and tips to craft your own pub trail.
Check out the recommendations below to make the most of your night out!
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Start your London adventure at the crossroads of history and nightlife. Holborn, nestled between Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, and the city’s law district, is a goldmine of characterful pubs and lively bars—all within walking distance from hotels near Holborn station.
Here are seven can’t-miss spots for your next night out:
Step inside Rosewood London and you’ll find Scarfes Bar, a throwback to old New York glamour with its plush velvet armchairs, roaring fire, and walls lined with caricatures by cartoonist Gerald Scarfe. Signature cocktails are the star here. Settle in for live jazz—every evening from around nine—and let white-jacketed bartenders mix you something off their creative list. For the perfect mix of culture and fun, this is a top pick for a drinks date or winding down after a busy day. Explore Scarfes Bar here.
Let Time Out’s Best Bars in London guide inspire your visit.
Fans of British-brewed craft beer should point their compass towards Temple Brew House. This quirky basement microbrewery is known for its inventive ales, rotating guest beers, and a food menu featuring proper pub classics. The decor’s casual and mismatched, making it feel genuinely local—a great choice whether you’re popping in for a taster flight or parking up for a Friday night. Expect brewing tanks, friendly staff, and a busy after-work crowd through the week. Find out more about London’s most central micropub here.
Curious about where locals go? DesignMyNight’s Best Pubs in Holborn rounds up top choices.
Craving an old-school pint in a charming, easygoing setting? The Queen’s Head is a real community pub, right in the heart of historic Holborn. It’s unpretentious, specialising in cask ales, a changing guest line-up, and well-priced bar snacks. Grab a table in the corner, people-watch, or chat with regulars—it’s the sort of spot that makes visitors feel instantly at home.
Get more insight into the area’s top-rated venues at DesignMyNight’s Holborn pub guide.
A living piece of history, this dark-wood, centuries-old tavern is hidden away just off Fleet Street—an easy stroll from Holborn. If you’re a fan of literary England or traditional London pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is a must. Samuel Johnson and Charles Dickens are said to have been regulars. Head down to one of the low-lit cellars for a pint of real ale and soak up the atmosphere. It’s a bit of a time-travel experience—no need for a filter here.
For more historical drinking venues, check TripAdvisor’s Bars & Clubs in Holborn.
Victorian architecture at its finest, The Princess Louise offers ornate period beauty without the steep prices. It’s a Samuel Smith’s house, so expect traditional Yorkshire beers and gins at a fraction of the usual Central London cost. The intricate glass partitions and snugs are perfect for groups who like a bit of privacy. Even if you’re just after a quick pint, the surroundings alone make this a destination.
See why visitors rave about historical pubs in TripAdvisor’s local Holborn listings.
Duck into a cobbled alley and discover The Ship Tavern, a Holborn legend since the 16th century. The crowd is a lively mix—locals, lawyers, and the occasional theatre-goer, thanks to its proximity to the West End. The pub itself is a celebration of dark wood, stained glass, and the warmth that only comes from regulars who’ve been propping up the bar for decades. Good real ales, hearty food, and an upstairs dining room if you’re after something more formal. Visit their menu here.
See why it’s been attracting fans for hundreds of years with TripAdvisor’s Holborn bars overview.
Not exactly Holborn (it’s in nearby Carnaby, Soho), but too fun not to mention: Nightjar Carnaby is repeatedly named as one of the coolest cocktail bars in London. Expect prohibition-era style, imaginative cocktails, and live jazz into the small hours. It’s ideal for special celebrations, late-night drinks, or simply ticking a must-visit spot off your list. If you want to impress (or be impressed), make a reservation and sample something from their inventive drinks menu.
Inspired by Time Out’s list of Best Bars in London.
Holborn stands out in Central London as a place where past and present mingle on every corner. Some of the best pubs in Central London are steps from Thistle Hotel Holborn—here’s what sets them apart:
A preserved temple of Victorian pub style, The Princess Louise deserves every nod it gets on lists of the coolest pubs in London. It’s known for its horseshoe bar, gorgeous tiles, and intricate glass partitions. Take an architectural stroll while supping your pint—it’s just part of the experience.
There are pubs you visit once, and then there’s The Ship Tavern—a place that becomes part of your London story. The staff’s quick with suggestions on local ales, and whether you fancy a quiet pint or a lunch that stretches till dinner, it feels authentically Central London.
Relaxed, unassuming, and full of charm. The Queen’s Head remains a favourite for its straightforward approach—no fads, just a good pint, friendly staff, and that neighbourhood pub feel even a thousand miles from home.
Few places in the city give you a sense of time travel quite like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. It’s one for history lovers and ale aficionados. Bring your friends for a pint in the cellars and spot how many decades (and famous names) you can count in the old guestbook.
For a London activity bar, Holborn and its surroundings deliver more than just great drinks. If you’re after bars with games in London, or simply want a change of pace, try these options:
Brew-house pubs like Temple Brew House blur the line between bar and social club. Along with fresh, house-brewed beers and rotating guest taps, you’ll often find board games and events. It’s popular with after-work locals and always filled with energy.
A short walk from Holborn, Bounce is famed for putting ping pong—and a buzzing crowd—centre stage. Expect high-energy games, DJs on weekends, and pizza and cocktails to fuel your match. Book a table in advance, especially for group outings.
If competitive socialising is your thing, Visit London shares more about London’s activity bar scene—see their official guides for inspiration.
Tucked around the corner from the station, All Star Lanes brings retro bowling alleys, American diner classics, and classic cocktails together. It’s brilliant for birthdays, work parties or dates that want to mix up the pub standard. Early evening gets lively, especially mid-week and Fridays.
Head to nearby Bloomsbury for Flight Club, a pub where darts gets a 21st-century spin with interactive scoring, cocktails, and music. Teams of all sizes can join the fun, making it a go-to for birthday bashes or just breaking the ice with new friends.
If you’re planning a slow-paced evening or a lively date night in Holborn, there’s plenty to keep couples entertained beyond the usual dinner-and-drinks routine.
Few places mix romance and fun like Scarfes Bar. Start or end your date here—cosy corners, jazz, and an impressive mixologist-led drinks list make it an elegant but not stuffy choice. Book ahead if it’s a weekend or you’re celebrating.
For couples who love history or a quiet moment tucked away, settling into one of Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese’s cellars is delightfully atmospheric. Share classic English comfort food, or just toast with a local ale. Afterwards, stroll Fleet Street or nearby Temple Gardens.
Candlelight, real ales, and hearty pub food—The Ship Tavern is all about warmth. Secure a table for two, order some of London’s best pies, and enjoy people-watching from the window seats.
Jazz in the air, beautiful cocktails on the table, and that unmistakably speakeasy vibe—Nightjar Carnaby is built for memorable date nights, special occasions, and anyone who wants to impress. Try their signature concoctions and catch a live act if you’re planning a late evening.
Staying at the Thistle London Holborn puts you in the perfect position to explore Central London’s nightlife. Here’s how to get the most out of your evening:
1. Stroll from the Hotel to Holborn’s Best Pubs
The great thing about Holborn is just how walkable it is. From your hotel, head down Southampton Row towards Bloomsbury or cross the main road to Covent Garden, and you’ll stumble across pubs and bars every block or two.
Tip: Visit Scarfes Bar for a pre-dinner cocktail, wander to The Ship Tavern for a local pint, and round off at Temple Brew House with a late-night snack.
2. Mix Historic Pubs with Modern Bars
Blend old and new—try a pint at historic Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, then head over to Bounce to work off your meal with a spot of competitive ping pong.
3. Plan a Themed Night Out
Organise your very own London date night: start with live jazz at Scarfes Bar, move to a game of bowling or darts at All Star Lanes or Flight Club, and end with a midnight drink at Nightjar Carnaby.
4. Explore Holborn’s Neighbourhoods
The hotel is a short hop from Covent Garden’s entertainment, Soho’s late bars, and the theatre district. Taxis are plentiful or make the most of the Tube from Holborn Station.
For more suggestions on what to do in London at night, see Visit London’s nightlife listings.
Making the most of London’s bar scene is as much about timing and local knowledge as it is about location:
Historic pubs like The Princess Louise and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese get crowded after five, especially on weekends. Arrive before six for the best atmosphere and a spot at the bar.
Places like Bounce and Flight Club fill fast on Fridays and Saturdays. Reserve ahead for larger groups—even a day or two makes a difference.
Holborn’s strength is diversity. Start traditional (The Ship Tavern), move to an activity bar (Bounce), and finish in a luxury setting (Scarfes Bar or Nightjar Carnaby).
Central London’s compact, so don’t rush. Map your route from Holborn Station or your hotel and see where the night takes you.
The last Tube from Holborn is just after midnight (check TfL for exact timings), and there are plenty of night buses and taxis. It’s easy to get back to your hotel or continue on to nearby London nightlife neighbourhoods.
For more tips on planning a London pub crawl, the latest advice from Time Out London is a reliable starting point.
Choosing the right base can transform your London night out from good to brilliant. Thistle London Holborn gives you more than just a room—it’s genuine guidance for exploring the city’s bar and pub culture.
At The Thistle Holborn, you’re moments from these standout venues. The walk to iconic pubs like The Princess Louise or activity-packed bars like Bounce is short, safe, and central—whether you’re heading out for after-work pints, celebrating a special occasion, or planning a spontaneous night out.
Every member of the team is local-savvy. If you’re searching for the best pubs in Central London or hoping to organise a London date night to remember, just ask for recommendations at reception. The hotel’s position makes it easy for groups, solo guests, or couples to enjoy Holborn’s mix of tradition and energy.
And the next morning? Tuck into a proper breakfast, make use of fast Wi-Fi if business calls, or stroll a few blocks to Covent Garden’s shops and shows. With top transport links—right by Holborn Station—and all of London’s nightlife within reach, it’s the smart, comfortable way to discover the city.
Ready to explore? Book your stay at Thistle London Holborn and experience London’s liveliest bar scene with the city’s trusted insiders.
Most of Holborn’s pubs close by eleven during the week, though some bars (especially those with events or activities) stay open until one or two on Fridays and Saturdays. Always check in advance for special nights.
If you’re heading to activity bars (for bowling, darts, or group games) or top-tier cocktail bars like Scarfes, it’s wise to book, especially on weekends.
Absolutely—many pubs in the area are relaxed and welcoming to solo guests. Seats at the bar are common, and there’s always someone happy to chat.
Hotels near Holborn Station, especially Thistle London Holborn, mean you’re never far from a great night out and just as handy for next-morning culture and sightseeing.
Most do. Classic pubs like The Ship Tavern are known for their meals, while bars with activities (All Star Lanes, Bounce) serve full menus alongside drinks.
For romance or a standout date, aim for Scarfes Bar, Nightjar Carnaby, or a candle-lit night at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese.
Yes—it’s one of Holborn’s big advantages! Most bars and pubs are within a 10 to 15-minute walk of each other and are well connected by public transport.
