20 cheap pubs in London
- Robert Marcano
- May 21, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Jul 4
As London’s cost of living continues to rise and the weather keeps changing by the hour, locals and visitors alike seek the perfect spot to unwind and socialise without breaking the bank. While the city offers various options, here at CityStack, we are dedicated to being advocates for independent pubs, so we decided to create a list of 25 cheap independent pubs, where you can get pints for £5 or less!
The majority of these establishments are from our selection of over 80 of London's finest independent pubs, each offering exceptional experiences at affordable prices. And the cherry on top? With our CityStack pack, you can enjoy a discount of £10 off your bill at each of these fantastic establishments! We also included some excellent pubs that aren’t part of our selection but provide special offers, because we know how hard it is for independent pubs to offer these prices.
Opting for these local haunts not only ensures an affordable and memorable experience but also fosters a sense of community and support for London's diverse tapestry of businesses. In a city renowned for its vibrant spirit, independent pubs stand out for their unique charm and character, each boasting its own distinct atmosphere and personality.
From snug corners to bustling hubs of activity, every independent pub holds the promise of an unforgettable evening. So, why settle for the ordinary when you can immerse yourself in the authentic ambiance of a neighbourhood gem?
Whether you're seeking a classic fish and chips or a good old pub quiz night, these cheap pubs promise an unforgettable blend of camaraderie, passion, and a true taste of London's vibrant pub culture. So, grab a pint, soak up the electric atmosphere, and celebrate the spirit of the city in true London style.
North London
178 Hoxton St, London N1 5LH
Tucked just off the lively streets of Shoreditch on Hoxton Street, Howl at the Moon is a proper Irish pub with plenty of character. Inside, shamrocks, traditional Irish music and a warm, welcoming atmosphere set the tone, often turning quiet evenings into lively celebrations. In winter it feels especially cosy, making it an easy place to settle in with friends. And with Murphy’s on offer for £5, there’s no mistaking the strong Irish roots running through this much loved pub.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Murphy's: £5
Howl Hazy: £5
Howl Lager: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at Howl at the Moon. For example, you could get two pints of Murphy's (£10) and two pints of Howl Hazy (£10) for £10!
1 Randolph St, London NW1 0SS
If you are looking for a pub that encapsulates all the exuberance, playfulness, and diversity that represent Camden, then you must visit the Colonel Fawcett. Here, you will be part of this friendly and revelry atmosphere while enjoying their impressive catalog of drinks, and most importantly, their happy hour that runs every day until 7 pm, and all day on Thursday! Here, the landlords managed to prove that you can have both a fantastic and cheap pub.
Pints for a fiver or less (only on happy hour):
Tidal Wave Pilsner: £5
Two Tribes Pale Ale: £5
Toast Beer: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Colonel Fawcett. For example, you could get a Schnitzel (£16.5) and a pint of Tidal Wave Pilsner (£5) for £11.5!
19 Perth Rd, London N4 3HB
Relax nearby Finsbury Park in the sprawling beer garden of the Faltering Fullback. One of the most charming Irish pubs in North London with its enchanting ivy-covered exterior. The pub offers a carefully selected drinks menu, which includes Murphy’s as low as £5! A feat that should not go unnoticed, with the prices of similar drinks like Guinness increasing by up to 8% every year. The Faltering Fullback’s rich history, its community atmosphere, and the commitment of the landlords to offer affordable black beer, make it a beloved gathering spot for Londoners seeking a lively atmosphere and a cosy hideout.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Murphy’s: £5
Caffrey’s: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Faltering Fullback. For example, you could get a Pad Chow Mein (£12.5) and two pints of Murphy’s (£5x2) for £12.5!
30 Inverness St, London NW1 7HJ
If you love punk and rock music, and you seek vibrant tunes coupled with a lively ambiance, then the Good Mixer is the perfect spot for you. Tucked away in the alleys of Camden, this hidden gem offers more than just pints for a mere fiver. It's a hub of spirited conversations and entertainment, often showcasing emerging bands. With a dynamic ambiance and wallet-friendly prices, the Good Mixer is an essential destination for anyone craving the lovely feeling of Camden at an affordable price.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Corona: £5
Moretti: £5
Brooklyn Beer: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Good Mixer. For example, you could get two pints of Corona (£5x2) and two pints of Moretti (£5x2) for £10 only!
33 Linton St, London N1 7DU
Spend a night around Islington in the classic yet welcoming atmosphere of the Hanbury. This pub not only offers pints for as little as £4.70, but also an appetizing array of gourmet delights. Amidst stylish surroundings and friendly service, it’s the perfect pub to have a great time without breaking the bank.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Amstel: £4.70
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Hanbury. For example, you could get a Fish & Chips (£17) and a pint of Amstel (£4.70) for £11.70 only!
2 St Jude St, London N16 8JT
Tucked away on a quiet residential street near Dalston, the Railway Tavern has long stood as a classic local pub, serving the community since the late 19th century. Inside, you can settle into a cosy corner with a drink in hand and enjoy a selection of tasty pizzas in a relaxed setting that feels a world away from the busy streets nearby. There is a real sense of comfort here, helped along by the pub’s love of animals. The Railway Tavern warmly welcomes pets, and often shares moments of visiting four legged guests on social media. If you are lucky, you might even meet Fluff, the resident cat who adds to the charm.
Pints for a fiver or less:
House Lager by Siren.: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Railway Tavern. For example, you could get a Margarita pizza (£9), a house salad (£5) and two pints of Jubel (£10) for £14 only!
South-East London
1 Kitto Rd, London SE14 5TW
Discover one of the most renowned pubs in Peckham. Skehan’s provides not only the traditional experience of an old-fashioned Irish pub with delicious Guinness, but it also serves some mouth-watering Thai food. Their live music events also create one of the best atmospheres in the city. Even though it attracts crowds from all over South-East London, which usually leads pubs to increase prices, Skehan’s chooses to offer affordable beers as low as the ones of a cheap pub, with some pints at just £5, making it one of the best value-for-money options for an unforgettable evening out.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Stella: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at Skehan’s. For example, you could get a Phad Thai (£10.5) and two Stella pints (2 x £5) for £10.5!
173 Borough High St, London SE1 1HR
Hidden in plain sight on bustling Borough High Street, the Blue Maid is a true gem for beer lovers. One of London’s oldest pubs, it’s steeped in history, with mentions in Little Dorrit and even marked on the 1542 Map of Southwark. But its real strength today lies behind the bar. The Blue Maid champions small and independent breweries, pouring a superb range of cask and keg beers that are as thoughtful as the pub’s elegant interior. Stylish pump lines and a striking beer display hint at the care and pride that goes into every pint. And the prices? Just as pleasing. You’ll find a rotating offer of quality beers for £5 or less, including Five Points Best Bitter, Howling Hops Dark Mild, and Burning Sky’s beautifully hoppy Aurora. Whether you’re after a rich, dark pint or a balanced pale ale, this is the kind of place where each pour feels considered. So next time you're dodging the crowds around Borough Market, keep an eye out for the charming blue façade – and treat yourself to one of the best-value pints in central London.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Rotating cask ales: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Blue Maid. For example, you could get 4 pints of cask ales (4 x £5) for just £10!
116 Prince St, London SE8 3JD
Seeking a genuine London pub experience in South-East London? Look no further than the Dog & Bell! While it can get quite busy, this beautiful pub offers a relaxing atmosphere to unwind and catch up with mates over a pint. Best of all, the establishment boasts a delightful beer garden, making it a perfect spot to soak up some sunshine during the warmer months. With a focus on good Guinness and a strong local following, the Dog & Bell offers a taste of authentic Deptford charm at an affordable cost.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Rotational ale: £5 (the team regularly changes the offer, ask the staff to get ale of the moment!)
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Dog & Bell. For example, you could get a Smash Burger (£15) and a pint of Tidal Wave Pilsner (£5) for £10 only!
87 Dennett's Rd, London SE14 5LW
Tucked away between Telegraph Hill and New Cross, the Earl of Derby combines a relaxed local atmosphere with seriously good food. The kitchen, Gengelly’s, serves proper pies, chargrilled meats, fresh fish, and a Sunday roast so exceptional it earned a place in Time Out London’s list of the city’s best. Even with such top-notch food, enjoying a pint alongside it will not hurt your wallet (see price below). The terrace out front offers a friendly spot to sit and watch the world go by, and the welcoming team, great drinks, and warm community spirit make the Earl of Derby a real local favourite.
Pints for a fiver or less:
5 Points XPA on cask: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Earl of Derby. For example, you could get a Bavette Steak (£18) and a pint of 5 Points XPA (£5) for £13 only!
77 Friary Rd, London SE15 1QS
Escape the London crowds and unwind at this lovely cheap pub! This laid-back pub in the heart of Peckham’s residential area is the perfect spot to catch up with your mates, over a relaxing pint of beer. Enjoy one of the few remaining local pubs in the area, which has been running since the early 20th century! The best part? Their affordable pints won’t give you any post-pub-depression, which makes it a must-try for anyone looking for a London hangout.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Fosters: £4.95
Home ale: £4.90
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Duke of Sussex. For example, you could get three pints of Home ale (£4.90 x 3) and two pints of Fosters (£4.95 x 2) for £14.6 only!
94 Bermondsey Wall E, London SE16 4TY
Veer off the beaten track and discover this wonderful hidden gem in Bermondsey - the Old Justice! This historic pub encompasses a charming and traditional atmosphere, with a stunning Tudor exterior. The Old Justice underwent a refurbishment in 2023, using its rich heritage to create a comforting and cosy ambiance. This facelift has created a lovely mixture that makes it one of the most remarkable pubs in all of southeast London! As soon as you step in, the warm welcome from the staff instantly puts you at ease. They serve some of the most affordable pints of Guinness in London (just £5!). For an extra dose of fun, catch one of their great live animation nights, or be part of their fantastic pub quizzes!
Pints for a fiver or less:
Guinness: £5
House Lager: £5
House Bitter: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Old Justice. For example, you could get four pints of Guinness (£5) for £10 only!
247 Kennington Ln, London SE11 5QU
Get to know one of Kennington's best treasures - the Pilgrim - which not only offers you cheap prices for a pub but also one of the most welcoming and friendly communities in all of London. Even if this doesn't make you fall in love with the place, the delicious food and the daily happy hour - between 7 pm and 9 pm - will surely do the job. Enjoy some beer at discount-like prices during the summer months in their two lovely beer gardens, or get inside during winter and experience a night like no other.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Fosters: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Pilgrim. For example, you could get some Chicken Tacos (£11) and two pint of Fosters (£5) for £11 only!
53 Hercules Rd, London SE1 7DZ
If you find yourself around Elephant and Castle looking for a comfortable and homely evening in a most traditional boozer, then look no further! The Pineapple is the perfect place to relax and catch up with some friends, all while having some delicious pizza and affordable drinks that will not make you regret your financial decisions the next morning.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Carling: £5
Carlsberg: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Pineapple. For example, you could order a Pepperoni Pizza (£10) and two pints of Carling (£5) for £10 only!
9 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6PP
Driven by the micro pub movement of the 2010s, the Shirker’s Rest team converted a former solicitor’s office into a relaxed neighbourhood spot designed for easy conversation across all ages.
Drinkers come from all over London to explore a constantly evolving mix of keg and cask beers, all sourced from independent breweries across the UK. If you’re after something local, there are always two South London staples on tap: Orbit’s Nico House Lager and Anspach & Hobday’s London Black.
Cherry on top, the Shirker’s team always keeps at least one cask priced at £5 or less.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Rotating Cask ales: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Shirker's Rest. For example, you could get 5 pints of Anspach & Hobday (£4.20 each) for £11 only!
202 Ivydale Rd, London SE15 3BU
Ascend to a heavenly realm of sensations, through the inviting atmosphere and the radiant interior of the Waverly Arms. This gem in Nunhead offers remarkable service, and exquisite food like their famous Sunday roast, or their mouth-watering pies. Spend the night in their beer garden, enjoying a selection of drinks that is going to leave you wondering how a cheap pub can make you feel like you are in heaven.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Absolutely Fuggled Pale End: £4.90
Guest Ale £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Waverley Arms. For example, you could get Half Suffolk Chicken (£18.25) and a pint of Guest Ale (£5) for £13.25!
East London
116 Bow Rd, London E3 3AA
Fancy discovering a traditional East London pub? Look no further than the Bow Bells! You’ll be blown away by this Cockney family-run’s atmosphere - both inviting and warm - perfect for a memorable night that will make you feel part of its great community. Get some friends and head to this bright orange pub, where their excellent pizzas, and extensive drink selection come at surprisingly affordable prices. Here, you can order a delicious Margarita for just 12£!
Pints for a fiver or less:
Duskstar Hophead: £4.80
London Pride Ales: £4.80
Additionally, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Bow Bells. For example, you could eat a delicious Margarita (£12) and drink two refreshing Dusktar Hophead pints (2 x £4.8) all for just £11.6!
8 Flamborough St, London E14 7LS
Steeped in East London history and full of character, the Queen’s Head is a proper local pub where great beer meets real heritage. Originally opened in 1827, this Victoria Quarter landmark once saw the Queen Mother herself pull a pint of bitter that famously rivalled palace champagne. Today, under the care of new landlord Tyler, the pub has been lovingly refurbished with a builder’s eye for detail and a deep respect for its past. Among the framed memorabilia and period features, what really stands out is the quality and value at the bar. The Queen’s Head pours its own house lager for just £4.50 a pint, offering one of the best-value pints in East London. It’s crisp, easy-drinking and served with pride – a proper pint in a proper pub. Whether you're popping in for a match on the telly, a game of darts, or just a refreshing round with mates, the Queen’s Head is the kind of place where affordable beer and community spirit go hand in hand.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Queen's Head House Lager £4.5
Fosters: £5
Additionally, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Queen's Head. For example, you could order a round of five Queen's Head House Lagers (5 x £4.50) for just £12.50!
145 Aylward Street, Stepney Green, London E1 0QW
The Peacock remains a proper traditional neighbourhood pub, welcoming everyone through its doors with warmth and character. While much of the area has seen house prices and pint prices steadily climb, this much loved local continues to keep beer affordable for all. You can still enjoy pints for £5 or less, including the Peacock Pale Ale and 2 rotating cask ales. Visit on a Monday and those cask ales are just £4, making this one of the best value pints you'll find in East London.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Peacock Pale Ale: £5 (£4 on Monday)
Two rotating Cask Ales: £5 (£4 on Monday)
Additionally, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Peacock. For example, you could order 4 pints of Peacock Pale Ale (£20) for just £10.
West London
269 Uxbridge Rd, London W12 9DS
In the heart of West London, this cheap pub offers a friendly and laid-back experience. Catch sports on their HD projector, enjoy live music every weekend, or belt out your favourites at Sunday karaoke. With a warm atmosphere and something for everyone, The Askew guarantees a good time!
Pints for a fiver or less:
Fosters: £4.20
The Shanakee
9-10, Central Buildings, The Broadway, London W5 2NT
In the heart of Ealing, just a stone's throw from Ealing Broadway station, lies the Shanakee, a family-run Irish pub brimming with warmth and character. Renowned for a ‘perfect’ pint of Guinness and lively atmosphere, the Shanakee is a haven for those seeking a taste of Ireland in West London. Their extensive drinks selection - from a wide range of beers on tap and classic Irish whiskeys to refreshing spirits, wines, and soft drinks - caters to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a pub to catch up with friends, enjoy a post-work drink, or simply seeking a welcoming spot to relax and unwind, the Shanakee is sure to become your new local.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Fosters: £4.50
The Stag
177 Acton Ln, London W4 5DA
Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Chiswick, the Stag is a hidden spot for locals. Built in 1898, this traditional pub boasts beautiful Victorian glazed tiles and a welcoming atmosphere. Inside, you'll find a classic layout with a central U-shaped bar, a pool table on one side, and a cosy lounge area with comfy seating and books on the other side. Here, live Premier League games light up the screens. While there's no food service, their selection of bar snacks, including the ever-popular Tayto crisps, pairs well with some well-priced beer.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Fosters: £4.80
Strongbow: £4.80
South West London
2 Greyhound Ln, London SW16 5SD
The Streatham building has been around since the 1800s, once hosting wine and spirit merchants at the front and a pub at the back. It became a hotel for a while, but now it is proudly a pub again, just as it should be! The Railway keeps things fresh with constantly rotating cask ales, so there is always something new to discover! Twice crowned South-West London CAMRA Pub of the Year and featured in the Good Beer Guide 13 years running, the pub proves brilliant beer does not need to cost a fortune, with drinks affordable for all.
Pints for a fiver or less:
Sambrook's Wandle on cask: £5
Additionally, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Railway. For example, you could order a sharing board (£10) and 2 pints of Sambrook's Wandle(2 x £5) for just £10!
Central London
43 Goodge St, London W1T 1TA
Taken over by BrewDog in 2018, we were pleased to see it return to independent ownership in 2025. Compact yet full of character, the Queen Charlotte stands out thanks to the ever changing beer range and clear commitment to supporting small independent producers. Step inside and a striking beer board immediately catches the eye, with 15 taps pouring beers from independent breweries.
At the Queen Charlotte, supporting independent local businesses does not have to come at a high cost, with three cask ales available at just £5 a pint. A rare find in such a central location, big up to the team!
Pints for a fiver or less:
Rotating cask ales: £5
Plus, with CityStack, you get a £10 discount when you spend £20 at the Queen Charlotte. For example, you could get 4 pints of cask ales (£5 each) for £10 only!
Time to find your new favorite cheap pubs!
London is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and its independent pubs are no exception. From cosy nooks with roaring fires to quirky spaces with unique charm. These 25 cheap pubs offer more than a pint – they provide a glimpse into the heart and soul of London. Whether you're seeking a historic haunt with character or a modern spot with a vibrant atmosphere, these independent pubs embody the spirit of London's diverse and dynamic pub culture. And to make your exploration even more affordable, with CityStack, you can enjoy a £10 discount when you spend £20 at most of these hidden gems. So, venture off the beaten path, and savour the experience of exploring these affordable gems across the city's bustling streets. Cheers to affordable adventures and memorable moments in London's thriving pub scene!
Fancy a discount?
We launched a project to support independent pubs hit hard by the current economic crisis (staff shortages, energy costs crisis etc.) and help pub lovers to socialise within their budget: CityStack is a £25 stack of beer mats that lets you get £100 worth of food & drink at amazing independent pubs across London.
In each pack, you'll find a special beer mat to show at any ten of the 80+ pubs handpicked by the CityStack team. Have it stamped to get £10 off £20+ spend. Collect 10 stamps to save £100!
Each pack provides a fun experience too, including a map and a stack of collectible informative beer mats to learn more about a fantastic selection of London pubs.
