Trip Ideas

12 Legendary London Pubs that You Don’t Want to Miss

With places that are centuries old and still serving drinks, London’s many pubs are one of the city’s main attractions. Here are some you should make sure to visit.

A lot of London’s history is hidden between the walls of its traditional pubs. Besides having the best tap beer, these places offer a look into the city through the ages.

In fact, the best way to develop a feel for the city is to visit the venues that have been serving its residents for decades and centuries past.

With many of them counted among the best pubs in England, here are the 12 legendary London pubs where you can experience the authentic soul of Britain’s capital.

1. The Flask

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Located at the top of Highgate Hill, The Flask is a famous pub that was a favorite of renowned poets like John Keats and Lord Byron. The oldest part of the pub dates to the mid-17th century, while the newer features are around 80 years younger.

The Flask is named after the tradition of collecting nearby spring water in flasks. After all, one of the springs was located right behind the pub.

2. The Star Tavern

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Belgravia’s Star Tavern opened in the early 19th century and has since seen its share of celebrity visitors, such as Peter O’Toole. The historical bar earned its notoriety as the staging ground for the grand robbery of the mail service that happened in 1963.

Today, the pub is among the best and most charming in Belgravia, and even in all of London, to enjoy a quality pint.

3. The Spaniard’s Inn

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Another spot that attracted literary giants, the Spaniard’s Inn in Hampstead has a stylish, authentic atmosphere perfect for tasting outstanding ales, craft beers, and a selection of fine wines.

You won’t find many pubs as iconic as this one, and the unique flair is evident from the ever-changing selections of lagers, ciders, and refreshing craft drinks.

4. The Nag’s Head

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Not far away from Harrods and the Knightsbridge shopping district, this pub presents a wonderful surprise for those that discover it. It’s filled with unusual decorations and curious items representing a time long gone.

Per its old-fashioned charm, cell phone use is forbidden inside. And to stay true to this attitude, The Nag’s Head doesn’t have an official website to this day. This pub’s the closest to time travel you could get and just having a drink in there is an experience in itself.

5. The Grapes

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Formerly known as Bunch of Grapes, the pub situated in Narrow Street is famously described in Our Mutual Friend’s opening by Charles Dickens. It hardly comes as a surprise, as he’s a reportedly loyal patron.

If that’s not enough celebrity power, the current owner of The Grapes is the theater champion, Sir Ian McKellen.

But even if you’re not very interested in Shakespeare and modern theater arts, you might still find the idea of stopping by Gandalf’s for a drink to be an enticing one that’s impossible to miss.

6. The Grenadier

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Originally a mess for the Foot Guards regiment officers, The Grenadier transformed into a pub about a century after it was built. Its pleasant, cozy interior has proven irresistible for many, including the Duke of Wellington and Madonna.

Despite its history and status, The Grenadier is still a place where you can find the perfect pint and grab an authentic English pub lunch.

7. The Black Friar

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There’s no chance you wouldn’t recognize the wedge-shaped building, the massive black sculpture above the doors, and the clock beyond it when approaching The Black Friar.

The pub stands exposed because it narrowly avoided demolition during the extensive reconstruction of the surrounding area.

Its interiors are extravagant, done in an Art Nouveau style with plenty of religious-themed decorations and art. And once you step inside, you’ll feel glad that the city planners didn’t follow through with their original intent.

8. The French House

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The French House is famous as the former meeting place for the French Resistance members during the Second World War. It’s become a bohemian hotspot in more recent times, although it kept the French charm to the point that French measures are used for the drinks.

To keep the pub as authentic and reminiscent of the past, there’s no TV inside and mobile phones are banned.

All that’s missing from this historic Soho venue is Charles de Gaulle sipping wine on one of the tables.

9. The Viaduct

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The renowned Victorian gin palace and the last surviving of its kind in London, The Viaduct opened in the mid-19th century. It’s located across the street from the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, better known as the Old Bailey. The central location ensures there are many exciting historical stories tied to the pub.

You can come in for a pint of excellent tap ale and take in the beautiful interior decorated with etched glass panels and massive portraits that adorn the walls.

10. The Cross Keys

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With lush foliage covering the exterior and the heavily-ornamented, gorgeously lit space inside, The Cross Keys pub might be among the most authentic spots in Covent Garden.

A large portion of its atmosphere comes from an avid adherence to tradition because, despite its popularity, the pub remains primarily a gathering place for local patrons.

And because of its loyalty to the local customers, The Cross Keys remains among the secret bars Covent Garden hides among its streets.

11. The Lamb

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Although it’s considered one of the Victorian pubs due to its interior, The Lamb significantly predates the Victorian era. It’s a legendary London pub with a rich history, a connection with Dickens, which isn’t a rare case for local pubs, and a distinct setting.

Inside, you’ll find antique screens, a bar that’s shaped like a horseshoe, and, as an item of great curiosity, a polyphon, which is a sound reproduction device that preceded the gramophone.

And if you proceed to the back, there’s a secret garden waiting to be discovered.

12. The Seven Stars

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The Seven Stars pub is among the rare places that survived the terrible Great Fire of 1666. Due to the lucky escape, it’s now an institution with over four centuries of history. But if you don’t pay attention, it would be easy to miss the tiny place despite its wonderful, flowery exterior decoration.

A traditional pub with a great selection of exceptional ales, The Seven Stars is frequented by legal professionals as it’s located right by the Royal Courts of Justice.

Have a Pint in a Historic Locale

Experiencing the most unique and legendary London pubs will leave an impression comparable to seeing Big Ben for the first time. And it’s not all about the drinks.

Witnessing the living history of a metropolis such as London is priceless. And what you learn during your historic bar crawl will stay with you for a long time.

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Tips + Planning

New York on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Fun

Dreaming of NYC but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. While the Big Apple consistently ranks among the world’s most expensive cities, experiencing its magic doesn’t require a trust fund. With insider knowledge and smart planning, you can savor iconic sights, world-class culture, and delicious eats without breaking the bank. Here’s your roadmap to an unforgettable, affordable New York adventure.

Conquer the Classics for Free (or Almost Free)

New York is overflowing with iconic experiences that cost nothing but your time.

Explore Central Park — Bstatic.com. (2025). Available at: https://cf.bstatic.com [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

Walk Famous Landmarks: Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking skyline views and photo ops. Explore Central Park – visit Sheep Meadow, Bethesda Fountain, and hidden waterfalls. Wander through Times Square at night to soak in the neon energy, marvel at Grand Central Terminal’s architecture, and admire the Rose Reading Room at the New York Public Library.
Seek Out Spectacular Free Views: Skip the expensive observation decks. Ride the Staten Island Ferry (FREE, 24/7) for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk the High Line, an elevated park with unique city vistas and art. Head to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for that classic postcard view of Manhattan.
Discover World-Class Museums for Less: Many major museums offer “pay-what-you-wish” admission or free hours:
- The Met: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents; suggested admission others
- American Museum of Natural History: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents
- MoMA: Free for all every Friday evening (5:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
- Museum of the City of New York: Pay what you wish for NY residents; free for all Wednesdays
- National Museum of the American Indian: Always free
- Bronx Museum: Always free
- Others: Guggenheim (pay-what-you-wish Sat evenings), Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (free Fri evenings), and Brooklyn Museum (free first Saturday of the month)
Embrace Parks & Green Spaces: Beyond Central Park, explore Prospect Park (Brooklyn), Brooklyn Bridge Park (free kayaking in summer!), Bryant Park (free events year-round), Washington Square Park, and the unique Little Island.

Eat Like a Local (Without the Tourist Markup)

NYC’s culinary scene is legendary, and you don’t need a fancy reservation to enjoy it.

New York slice — Islands.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.islands.com [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

The Almighty Slice: Grab a classic $1-$3 New York slice from spots like Joe’s Pizza, 2 Bros Pizza, or countless neighborhood pizzerias.
Street Food & Food Trucks: Fuel up with affordable breakfast tacos, bagels with cream cheese, hot dogs, pretzels, and legendary halal cart plates.
Global Delights in Ethnic Enclaves:
- Chinatown: Inexpensive dumplings, dim sum, noodle soups
- Queens (Flushing, Jackson Heights): Authentic and affordable eats from around the world
- Arthur Avenue, Bronx: Authentic Italian far superior (and cheaper) than Little Italy
Happy Hour Deals: Milk happy hour for discounted drinks and sometimes food at popular bars.
Groceries & Markets: Grab picnic supplies for park lunches. Explore food halls like Chelsea Market (sample affordably) or Essex Market.

Smart Savings on Accommodation & Transportation

These two areas often eat the biggest chunks of your budget. Fight back!

Catholicleader.com.au. (2025). Available at: https://catholicleader.com.au [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

Stay Beyond Manhattan: Consider Brooklyn, Queens, or even New Jersey for significantly better hotel rates and more space.
Book Early & Compare: Use comparison sites. Winter offers the lowest prices, while spring/fall provide good balance of cost and comfort.
Master Public Transit: Ditch the expensive cabs!
- Subway & Bus: The $2.90 single ride is your lifeline. A 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard ($34) pays for itself after about 12 rides
- Walking: NYC is incredibly walkable
- Citi Bike: Great for short hops
- Ferries: Besides the FREE Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry offers scenic routes

Score Deals on Entertainment & Experiences

Culture and fun in NYC don’t have to come with a sky-high price.

Shakespeare in the Park — Feverup.com. (2025). Available at: https://offloadmedia.feverup.com [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

Broadway & Theater:
- TKTS Booths: Get same-day tickets for up to 50% off
- Lotteries & Rush Tickets: Many shows offer deeply discounted tickets via digital lotteries or in-person rush sales
Free Festivals & Events: NYC’s calendar is packed!
- Shakespeare in the Park: Summer performances in Central Park
- SummerStage & BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!: Free concerts in parks
- Holiday Magic: Rockefeller Tree, Macy’s Parade, Dyker Heights lights
Comedy & TV Tapings: Find free or low-cost comedy shows and apply for free audience tickets to TV shows.

Pro Tips for Maximum Savings

Travel Off-Peak: Visit in winter or early December for lowest prices
Embrace Free Walking Tours: Cover neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Chinatown
Hydrate Smart: Carry a reusable water bottle – NYC tap water is excellent
Seek Out Local Alternatives: Skip tourist traps for authentic neighborhood experiences

The Takeaway:

New York City on a budget isn’t just possible; it can lead to a richer, more authentic experience. By focusing on free attractions, eating locally, staying strategically, mastering the subway, and seeking deals, you unlock the true vibrancy of the city without draining your savings. Remember, the best things in New York – the energy, the people-watching, the iconic skyline views – are often free. So pack your walking shoes, grab a MetroCard and a dollar slice, and get ready to fall in love with the Big Apple on your own terms! What’s your first budget-friendly NYC adventure going to be? Share your tips in the comments!

Oceanside

Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a just-plucked salad while staring at the Pacific, then buckle up, buttercup—Oceanside farm-to-table dining is calling your name.

Tucked between sun-soaked beaches and rolling inland hills, this Southern California gem has quietly grown into a haven for food lovers who like their meals local, their chefs bold, and their plates—well, Instagram-ready.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who really really likes brunch, Oceanside farm-to-table dining offers more than sea views. We’re talking heirloom tomatoes kissed by morning fog, craft cocktails that double as magic tricks, and chefs who are basically artists with aprons. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting fed, farm-fresh style.

What Is Oceanside Farm-to-Table Dining, Really?

Let’s clear the table for a sec. Farm-to-table isn’t just some trendy buzzword chefs slap on menus to sound eco-chic. At its core, it means sourcing ingredients locally—often directly from farms—and serving them up with minimal processing and maximum flavor. In Oceanside, this goes beyond just taste. It’s a philosophy. A lifestyle. Dare we say… a movement?

And the best part? You’re supporting local growers, reducing your carbon footprint, and probably tasting the juiciest strawberry of your life. Win-win-win.

Best Oceanside Farm-to-Table Restaurants You Need to Try

1. The Plot

Facade of The Plot restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

This zero-waste, plant-based spot is straight-up revolutionary. Their ingredients come from their own nearby farm, and the dishes? Think beet poke, jackfruit tacos, and other delicious curveballs that even die-hard carnivores can’t resist. Oh, and they compost everything. If guilt-free indulgence had a home address, this would be it.

2. Dija Mara

A group of people eating at Dija Mara restaurant in Oceanside CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Farm-to-table meets Southeast Asian street food in a vibe-heavy spot that’s as edgy as it is flavorful. The grilled octopus is legendary, and if you skip the charred broccolini, you’re doing it wrong. The chef draws heavily from local produce, giving traditional Balinese flavors a SoCal twist. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it absolutely slaps.

3. Piper at The Seabird Resort

Menu at Piper restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Theseabirdresort.com. (2025). Available at: https://theseabirdresort.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Piper doesn’t mess around. Set inside a dreamy oceanside resort, this airy spot serves up locally-sourced everything—from the eggs in your shakshuka to the basil in your spritz. It’s coastal chic meets farmers market brunch, with a pastry chef who deserves a standing ovation. Try the house-made granola, and prepare to get hooked.

4. Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub

Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Oceanside farm-to-table dining. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2022). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Don’t let the name throw you. This place is an Oceanside staple, known for its punk-rock approach to sushi and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Chef Davin Waite works with local fishermen and farms to craft rolls that are inventive, wild, and weirdly poetic. Like a sea urchin haiku with a wasabi kick.

Markets & Makers: Take the Experience Home

Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market. Oceanside farm-to-table dining.

Don’t just eat it—live it. Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market is held every Thursday and is your golden ticket to the freshest produce, local honey, and homemade everything. Chat up the farmers. Sample the stone fruit. Grab some sourdough that might change your life. It’s laid-back, lively, and just the right amount of chaotic.

While you’re at it, check out Cyclops Farms, a certified organic urban farm that supplies many of Oceanside’s restaurants. They host events, dinners, and even let you pick your own produce. Warning: you might leave with a crate of kale and a deep desire to start gardening.

Final Bites: Why Oceanside’s Food Scene Hits Different

Let’s be honest—farm-to-table is often tossed around in cities that feel more like curated museum exhibits than real, lived-in communities. But Oceanside? It’s gritty, it’s growing, and it’s got soul. The chefs here aren’t following trends; they’re setting them. The food isn’t pretentious; it’s passionate. And every bite tells a story that started just down the road.

So, next time you find yourself in this coastal corner of California, come hungry—and maybe wear pants with an elastic waistband. You’re gonna need it.

Planning Your Visit?
Make sure to check restaurant hours, reserve ahead if you can, and leave room in your suitcase for jam jars and handmade pasta. This isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a full-on flavor adventure.

Dig in.

New Orleans

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.