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THE 2026 'monopoly' solstice gallon event

The date is approaching fast and we’re making preparations. Don’t miss out

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It’s a wrap!

The big day may have come and gone, but keep in touch as we’re always up to something new and exciting.

Recent past Event

Saturday 20th june 2026

The 2026 'Riverside' Solstice Gallon

12:00 pm

-

Late

Central London

Event Details

Saturday 20th june 2026

The 2026 'Riverside' Solstice Gallon

Check out some of the pubs with names associated with the Festive season, and nice pints of beer!

12:00 pm

-

Late

Central London

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

Join us at solstice gallon on 21st november 2026 at some of london's finest venues

hotels

Travelodge Kings Cross Royal Scot

We found Travelodge Kings Cross Royal Scot being close to Kings Cross, and is the cheapest out of the central Travelodges. You can also choose Kings Cross Central itself, or Farringdon - which we have stayed at before - all much of a muchness. If you do choose a Travelodge - we would suggest walking from Kings Cross, left out of the station - follow the road past McDonald's, then bare right down Kings Cross Road (A201, right of Honest Burger) then follow the road. The King's Cross Royal Scot is on the left, closely followed by Farringdon TL around 5 minutes further down.

PUB NO: 1 - the blind beggar

337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

 Where the laughter is contagious, and the drinks flow like good conversation. The Blind Beggar is more than just a pub, it's a home away from home.

So, grab a seat, raise your glass, and let the good times roll. Welcome to the heart of London – welcome to The Blind Beggar.

337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

 As well as the firm favourites, at The Blind Beggar we regularly update our beer lineup.

At The Blind Beggar we have many different styles of Beer. From crisp and refreshing lagers to complex craft ales. So, raise your glass to the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into brewing. Cheers!

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337 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1BU

 The Blind Beggar Has Been Awarded 'Best Outdoor/ Smoking Area In London'!

The decked pergola area boasts a lively heated outside bar with comfortable seating. Ideal for relaxing and enjoying a few drinks, it’s easy to forget you’re still in Whitechapel High Street.

PUB NO: 2 - Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse

418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

The Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse is an exceptionally historic venue located at 418 St John Street, Islington, standing just a short walk from Angel Underground Station. Boasting six centuries of stories, the original tavern on this spot was established back in 1415, making it one of the absolute oldest pubs in London. The current striking, Grade II listed building was rebuilt in 1899 and retains much of its vintage architectural charm—including original decorative textured ceilings and wood-and-mirror bar partitions—while cementing its reputation as a beloved fixture of bohemian London life. 

418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

  The ground floor functions as a proper, high-energy British boozer where regulars, actors, and theatregoers mix over a great selection of real ales and draft beers. The food menu keeps things comforting and satisfying, centering around hot, freshly fired hand-made Neapolitan-style pizzas, classic pub bites, and fries. The space is also dog-friendly, completely casual, and features a small beer garden area at the back that serves as a popular post-show spot for a pint. 

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418 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ

  Upstairs, the venue transitions into the iconic Old Red Lion Theatre, an intimate, 60-seat fringe studio that has been staging unapologetic, boundary-breaking new writing since 1979. The playhouse is widely respected in the theatrical world as a launching pad for immense talent; global hits like The Play That Goes Wrong and acclaimed playwrights like Nina Raine originally debuted their early work on this tiny stage before transferring to the West End and off-Broadway. Now operating under fresh management as of 2025, the venue continues to thrive by pairing bold fringe storytelling with a warm, historic pub environment. 

PUB NO: 3 - ye old cheshire cheese

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

 

Probably the most famous pub in the world, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is one of London’s few remaining 17th Century chophouses. The sawdust on the floor is changed twice daily, It is a pub and eating house offering unpretentious fare in wooden bays provided by high-backed church pews and served by waiters. The site formed part of the 13th century Carmelite monastery and since 1538 a pub has stood here. The medieval pub was rebuilt in about 1667 after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

“Yesterday, I looked in at the Garrick at lunchtime, took one glance of loathing at the mob, and went off to lunch by myself at the Cheshire Cheese.” PG Wodehouse, 1906

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is an historic gem of a pub on Fleet Street, on the edge of the City of London.  

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

 The pub was rebuilt in 1667 after the original one was burnt down by the Great Fire of London. Over the past 355 years the Cheese has been frequented by numerous prominent literary figures: Dr Samuel Johnson, Mark Twain, W.B. Yeats and Charles Dickens, who even featured it in his novel A Tale of Two Cities. Other prominent figures who were customers: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mark Twain, Volataire and Winston Churchill.

The pub is a delightful labyrinth of different rooms: front bar, Chop House restaurant, Cheshire Bar, Cellar Bar, Williams Room and Johnson Bar to name but a few.

Its location, on Fleet Street in the heart of London’s publishing district, has made it the favourite meeting place of literary types, and much has been written about it for hundreds of years. The Chop Room is the traditional dining room where you can find a long oaken table at which Dr. Johnson, Oliver Goldsmith, Charles Dickens and others have dined over the years.

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Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP

  Charles Dickens boasted of the food here as “a good plain meal with good wine.” Dr. Samuel Johnson, the author of the modem dictionary, lived a few steps away and his chair is in the pub. His house can be visited at the same time you visit the Cheese.
Oliver Goldsmith drank with him here and also lived in the next door Wine Office Court. Their experiences at the Cheese were described by Dickens as “Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese” in A Tale of Two Cities. Pictures and artifacts throughout the labyrinth of rooms portray the people, events and times that shaped this famous eating and drinking establishment. 

PUB NO: 4 - The Crown & Two Chairmen

31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

The Crown & Two Chairmen is a historic and beautifully restored pub located at 31-32 Dean Street, Soho, offering a vibrant and social atmosphere in the heart of London. Dating back to the 1730s, the venue seamlessly blends its rich heritage—featuring handsome wood panels, exposed brickwork, and cozy banquette seating—with a distinctly modern, buzzy energy. Over the centuries, it has served as a legendary meeting place for iconic literary and political figures like George Orwell and Karl Marx. Today, it stands as a bustling neighborhood hub where sports fans, locals, and visitors gather to enjoy its lively music and television screens. 

31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

 The pub spans two distinct floors, each offering a different experience to match your mood. On the ground floor, guests will find 'The Grotto', a characterful and energetic space that is perfect for casual pints and socializing. Upstairs, 'The Chairmen's Lounge' offers a slightly more relaxed setting with dedicated table service, making it an excellent choice for a sit-down meal or hosting private group bookings, corporate gatherings, and parties. Unlike some of its more restrictive neighbors on Dean Street, the venue is completely dog-friendly and accepts online reservations to guarantee you a spot. 

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31-32 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SB

  When it comes to refreshments, the pub boasts a highly dependable selection of traditional British comfort food alongside a heavily rotating craft beer line-up that spotlights local London breweries. From their popular Sunday roasts and standalone burger selection to excellent weekday meal deals, the kitchen caters to a wide variety of tastes, including extensive vegan and vegetarian options. Combined with its curated wine and cocktail lists, it provides a well-rounded and accommodating destination, though it can get incredibly packed and lively during peak Thursday to Saturday evening hours. 

PUB NO: 5 - the french house

49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

 The French House is a legendary Soho institution located at 49 Dean Street, London, widely celebrated as one of the city's most iconic and atmospheric watering holes. Steeped in history, it serves as a historic haven for bohemian culture where actors, writers, artists, and wits regularly rub shoulders with showbusiness names and royalty. The pub is uniquely famous for its strict "no music, no machines, no television, and no mobile phones" policy. This intentional lack of modern digital distractions creates a rare, vibrant atmosphere completely dedicated to the art of conversation and lively social interaction. 

49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

 Downstairs, the bustling bar offers a warm, welcoming environment for both regular patrons and newcomers alike. True to its name, it boasts an impressive premium selection of thirty superb champagnes and wines available by the glass. Operating on a strictly first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted for drinks, the lively space fills up quickly with guests looking to raise a glass in what is affectionately dubbed the best-known pub in the world's naughtiest square mile. 

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49 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 5BG

 Tucked away upstairs is an intimate restaurant room that provides a distinct dining experience away from the energetic crowd below. Because of its remarkably small size, the restaurant operates with just two sittings per service and features a frequently lauded menu that changes daily. Due to its popularity and limited space, table bookings open exactly 60 days in advance, accommodate a maximum group size of six people, and require credit or debit card details to secure a spot. 

PUB NO: 6 - the red lion

23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

 This pub features good quality fielded panelling on the walls as well as attractive stained glass in the windows. The building probably dates from the early or mid-nineteenth century but what we see inside seems to be of about 1930 with lots of panelling typical of the time giving the pub a cosy feel 

23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

 At that time there would no doubt have been two bars. Both sets of doors led to the saloon (note the "Saloon Bar" brass plates on both sets of doors) with the doors on left also leading to a small snug bar where there was also a small booth from where off-sales could be purchased. The attractive leaded casement windows with colourful roundels featuring a tulip-like design are certainly old as are the glazed and panelled doors. 

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23 Crown Passage, SW1Y 6PP

 The bar counter front has fielded panelling, as do the walls to full height. However, back in 2000 the bar counter was moved from its position against the right wall to its current position against the back right of the room. The pot-shelf with its stained and leaded panels is modern.

PUB NO: 7 - Rose & Crown

2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

The Rose & Crown, Mayfair is a wonderfully charming, multi-century pub hidden away at 2 Old Park Lane, Mayfair, directly opposite the Hard Rock Cafe and just a five-minute stroll from Green Park Underground Station. Rebuilt into its current form but maintaining a public house legacy that dates back over 400 years to 1704, the establishment originally functioned as an exclusive weekly social club for artists, connoisseurs, and young gentry. Today, under the stewardship of Greene King, it beautifully balances its old-world architectural heritage with a relaxed, unassuming neighborhood vibe, offering a cozy retreat from the high-end luxury of Park Lane. 

2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

 The pub features a characteristic single-room layout on the ground floor, heavily decked out in warm dark wood accents, original vintage styling, and a welcoming bar area where solo travelers, locals, and tourists mix effortlessly. For sports enthusiasts, the ground floor is equipped with three screens streaming live Sky Sports and TNT Sports fixtures with full commentary. The beverage program is CAMRA-accredited and centers around perfectly kept Cask Marque real ales, draft beers, and premium spirits, making it an excellent stop for anyone seeking an authentic, multi-century English tavern experience.  

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2 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1QN

 Climbing upstairs reveals a more dedicated dining room that steps away from the bustling atmosphere below. The kitchen runs an extensive traditional menu featuring classic British pub comfort food, best known for its remarkably generous portion sizes. Signature plates like their massive halibut and chips or the indulgent bacon mac and cheese are local favorites, and the pub also features competitive promotions and loyalty rewards via the Greene King mobile app. Dog-friendly and accepting of table reservations, it is a highly accessible and characterful hidden gem that brings unpretentious, historic hospitality to one of London's most affluent districts. 

PUB NO: 8 - The audley public house

41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

The Audley Public House is a landmark Victorian pub sitting on the elegant corner of Mount Street and South Audley Street in Mayfair. Originally licensed in 1730 as the Bricklayers Arms and rebuilt in 1888 by architect Thomas Verity, the historic Grade II listed building has been stunningly revitalised by design studio Laplace. It is celebrated for successfully clashing 19th-century late-Victorian heritage—like its original mahogany panelling and double-faced ceiling clock—with bold, world-class contemporary art. The undeniable centerpiece of the space is a massive, vibrant hand-painted paper ceiling collage by Dame Phyllida Barlow, which watches over a buzzing neighborhood crowd of locals, workers, and art enthusiasts. 

41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

 Operating strictly on a first-come, first-served walk-in basis, the lively ground-floor public house focuses on high-end, carefully sourced British pub fare. The kitchen draws seasonal produce, beef, and lamb directly from its own farm in Somerset, crafting elevated bar staples and playful snacks. Guests can pair a pint of fresh prawns or a warm Scotch egg with a heavily rotating draft beer line-up. The venue takes great pride in its beverage craft, having earned a prestigious spot in the Guinness Harp Guide as one of the elite London establishments recognized for pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. 

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41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

 While the street-level pub remains casual and high-energy, the building expands upwards to offer entirely different, premium experiences. Directly above the pub on the first floor sits the sophisticated, art-filled Mount St restaurant. Helmed by Executive Chef Jamie Shears, it serves updated London culinary classics amidst over 200 museum-quality artworks by masters like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso. Climbing even higher reveals three additional floors housing four beautifully designed "Curious Rooms" available for bespoke private hire, making the entire venue a multifaceted jewel of Mayfair hospitality. 

Proposed Itinerary

Route and Link (Google Maps)

Route takes you from the first featured pub to the last!


Map Link:https://maps.app.goo.gl/J2Kj2pQUnWMYdsY86

travel ideas

Walking is an option, but will test your legs.

 1. The Blind Beggar (Whitechapel)

The Walk: Head straight west down Whitechapel High Street, continuing onto Aldgate and Cheapside. Turn right at the Bank of England up Moorgate and onto City Road/St John Street to hit Islington first.

🏃 Distance: 2.1 miles (approx. 42 mins)


2. 📍 Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse (Islington)

The Walk: Walk directly south down St John Street, cutting through Smithfield Market and down to Fleet Street.

🏃 Distance: 1.2 miles (approx. 24 mins)


3. 📍 Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)

The Walk: Head west down Fleet Street, past the Strand and Covent Garden, straight into Soho to Dean Street.

🏃 Distance: 1.2 miles (approx. 24 mins)


4. 📍 The Crown & Two Chairmen & 5. 📍 The French House (Soho)

The Walk: These two are right next door to each other on Dean Street. Once finished in Soho, walk south down Wardour Street, through Leicester Square, and past Trafalgar Square into St James's via Pall Mall.

🏃 Distance: 0.7 miles (approx. 15 mins)


6. 📍 The Red Lion (Crown Passage, St James's)

The Walk: Slip out of Crown Passage, cross Green Park completely to the west side, and walk directly onto Old Park Lane.

🏃 Distance: 0.5 miles (approx. 10 mins)


7. 📍 Rose & Crown (Mayfair)

The Walk: Walk north off Park Lane into the heart of Mayfair, turning right onto Mount Street.

🏃 Distance: 0.2 miles (approx. 5 mins)


8.  The Audley Public House (Mayfair)

You have officially finished the crawl on the grand street corner of Mayfair!


If you wish to use the tube then the below will help.

 1. 🏁 The Blind Beggar (Whitechapel)

The Tube Leg: Walk 2 minutes to Whitechapel Station. Take the Elizabeth line (Westbound) for 2 stops to Farringdon Station.

The Walk: Walk 8 minutes north up Cowcross Street and Turnmill Street to St John Street.

⏱️ Transit Time: ~15 mins


2. 📍 Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse (Islington)

The Tube Leg: Walk 3 minutes from the pub to Angel Station. Take the Northern line (Southbound via Bank) for 2 stops to Moorgate Station. Switch to the Circle, Hammersmith & City, or Metropolitan line (Westbound) for 2 stops to Farringdon Station.

The Walk: Walk 8 minutes south down Turnmill Street and Charterhouse Street to Fleet Street.

⏱️ Transit Time: ~20 mins


3. 📍 Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)

The Tube Leg: Walk 8 minutes to Blackfriars Station. Take the District or Circle line (Westbound) for 3 stops to Embankment Station. Switch to the Northern line (Northbound) for 2 stops to Tottenham Court Road Station.

The Walk: Walk 4 minutes down Oxford Street and turn left onto Dean Street.

⏱️ Transit Time: ~22 mins


4. 📍 The Crown & Two Chairmen & 5. 📍 The French House (Soho)

Note: These two are right next door to each other on Dean Street.

The Tube Leg: Walk 5 minutes from Dean Street to Tottenham Court Road Station. Take the Central line (Westbound) for just 1 stop to Oxford Circus Station, then switch to the Victoria line (Southbound) for 1 stop to Green Park Station.

The Walk: Walk 5 minutes into the quiet alleyways of St James's via Pall Mall.

⏱️ Transit Time: ~12 mins


6. 📍 The Red Lion (Crown Passage, St James's)

The Walk: No Tube needed! Simply walk 5 minutes straight west through the edge of Green Park to cross over to Old Park Lane.

⏱️ Distance: 0.3 miles (approx. 5 mins walk)


7. 📍 Rose & Crown (Mayfair)

The Walk: Walk 4 minutes north off Park Lane deeper into the Mayfair neighborhood, following South Audley Street straight up to Mount Street.

⏱️ Distance: 0.2 miles (approx. 4 mins walk)


8. 🏁 The Audley Public House (Mayfair)

You have arrived at the final stop! To head home, you are just a 7-minute walk away from Bond Street Station (Central, Jubilee, and Elizabeth lines).


Contact Us for more info

Contact Us for more info

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