If you’re into wine or beer, London’s scene isn’t just about grabbing a pint or a glass – it’s an actual thing here. You can spend an afternoon in Bermondsey, popping into craft breweries like Fourpure for a fresh IPA or head over to Earl’s Court, where small wine bars pour natural wines that often surprise even the fussiest drinkers.
One place I always recommend is The Sampler in Borough Market. They have this cool beer tap wall where you can try everything from local stouts to obscure Belgian brews without committing to a full pint. It’s perfect if you want to sip, compare, and chat with the bartender about what you like. And if you’re around in September, check out the London Beer Week events – pub crawls and brewery tours pop up all over the city.
For wine lovers, Vinoteca near Blackfriars is a highlight – their selection is serious but approachable, and they’ll let you taste before you decide. If you want local flair, look for English sparkling wines. The south of England has stepped up big time, and you’ll find them on many menus. Pro tip: some smaller bars in Shoreditch champion natural wines from lesser-known producers, so don’t be shy about asking for suggestions. London’s wine and beer scene feels like a playground once you know where to go, and trust me, you’ll find spots that fit your vibe.
🌍 Part of the My Guide Network180+ destinations worldwide
If you find yourself wandering around London and craving something different than the usual pint, try the beer taps at The Sampler near Borough Market. It’s a brilliant way to taste a bunch of beers without ordering full pints. Also, if you’re a wine drinker, don’t overlook the natural wine bars tucked away in Shoreditch. These places often have quirky bottles you won’t spot on standard menus, and it’s fun to chat with the staff about their discoveries.
An extra nugget: English sparkling wine can be stunning, especially in the summer months when a chilled glass just hits differently. Ask for it in bars around Blackfriars or Southwark – locals are increasingly proud of these wines, and you’ll taste why pretty fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about wine and beer in London? I’ve got your back.
Head to Bermondsey Beer Mile – it’s a string of breweries churning out everything from hop-heavy IPAs to fruity sours. Fourpure and Partizan are solid picks with friendly staff who’ll happily chat you through their brews.
Definitely. Vinoteca offers tasting flights that won’t break the bank, and they often run events focused on different regions. Also, Borough Market’s wine bars sometimes do samples by the glass, so you can try before you commit.
Absolutely. English sparkling has come a long way and pairs perfectly with British food. Check out places like Sager + Wilde or Hedonism Wines,they regularly have English sparkling on offer, and it’s lovely stuff.
You can do plenty of brewery tours in London itself. Many spots along Bermondsey Beer Mile offer tours and tastings. For something small and intimate, Young’s in Wandsworth runs classic tours that dive into both history and brewing.
London’s wine bars in neighborhoods like Marylebone or Clerkenwell tend to be less hectic than central spots. Try Terroirs in Soho if you want a relaxed vibe with a natural wine focus and some great cheese.
London Beer Week, usually in September, is a highlight for beer fans, with events all around the city. For wine, the London Wine Week in May is a lively event with tastings, dinners, and pop-ups sprinkled across town.
Yes, vegan options are pretty easy to find here. Many craft breweries avoid animal products, and wine bars like 69 Colebrooke Row clearly label vegan wines. Just ask – London bars are usually happy to help.
