Cultural Walking Tour of London’s Soho & Covent Garden with Ale Hunters
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2-3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, able to walk moderate distances
Overview
Uncover London's historic pub scene with the Ale Hunters’ Literary Soho and Covent Garden Tour. Dive into centuries of stories, enjoy craft beers, and experience the city’s vibrant culture through its legendary pubs.
Literary Soho and Covent Garden Tour
Walk in the footsteps of Karl Marx, Dylan Thomas and Bill 'the terror' Drummond.
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About This Adventure
Discover London's rich pub culture on a captivating 2.5-hour tour, exploring historic establishments with intriguing stories. Visit four classic pubs, including literary haunts and a legendary venue known for bare-knuckle fights. Engage with the city's vibrant history and enjoy a unique blend of traditional and craft beers in a small group setting.
**Duration:**2.5 hours Ages: 18+ Minimum group of 6
About
London has a fantastic pub culture and some of these establishments have been trading for over 400 years. Our pub tours take in the hidden gems, literary haunts, pubs with a nefarious story and those providing both traditional and new-age craft beer experiences.
Each week I will focus on different areas of London and groups of up to 14 will be personally be guided by me around 4 classic pubs enabling the inquisitive traveller to easily engage with my city's unique pubs. Wander through the streets of London's former hunting grounds, learning about its association with the arts and enjoy the atmosphere of its many characterful pubs.
We will see where Dylan Thomas almost lost his only manuscript to Under Milk Wood, which pub Charles de Gaulle formed the Free French Forces and the Dutch pub which was the former residency of the Mighty Boosh.
We finish at a legendary pub which used to stage bare knuckle fights and was known as the 'Bucket of Blood' and where the poet John Dryden was attacked by paid hitmen.
Adventure Tips
Arrive early
Get to the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start and enjoy settling into the atmosphere.
Dress comfortably
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and weather-appropriate clothing.
Bring cash/cards
Some pubs may prefer cash or card payments—bring both just in case.
Ask about local brews
Don't hesitate to inquire about specialty beers or limited editions at each stop.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban foxes in alleyways
- Seagulls near pubs with outdoor seating
History
The pubs visited have witnessed centuries of London's literary and social history, hosting writers, artists, and revolutionaries.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respecting historic sites and supporting local businesses by patronizing authentic, independent pubs.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring historic neighborhoods comfortably on foot.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers and bring an umbrella if rain is forecast for comfort throughout the tour.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Small backpack or bag
Carry essentials like water, wallet, and optional camera.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk with a refillable bottle.