Best cities for pubs in England
Date published: 5 Feb 2026
Ask 20 people to name the best cities for pubs in England and you’ll probably get 20 different answers. Is it about sheer numbers, walkability, history, or the kind of places you lose track of time in? From centuries-old inns to buzzing modern locals, great pub cities come in many forms.
Some rankings count pubs per square mile, others look at population or variety. Rather than obsess over one metric, we’ve taken a broader view to spotlight the places that consistently deliver a great night out and an even better pint.
Whether you’re looking for the best cities for pub crawls or just the best pubs for food, these destinations stand out for atmosphere, choice and character. In short – places where one pint easily turns into three, and no one’s in a rush to leave.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s pub scene is as characterful as its musical heritage. You’ll find everything from grand Victorian boozers and dockside taverns to intimate locals hidden on quiet streets.
Many pubs double as live music venues, perfect for a dance-filled pub crawl theme, while others focus on perfectly kept traditional ales. What really sets Liverpool apart is the atmosphere – extremely friendly, unpretentious and always up for a good night. Pub-hopping here feels natural, not forced.
St Albans
St Albans has an impressive pub density, helped by its strong brewing heritage. It’s topped several lists as being the city with the most pubs per square mile, so it's never far to go to your next one.
The city centre is packed with historic inns, characterful independents and reliable locals that take pride in their beer. It’s particularly popular with real ale fans, but you’ll also find more modern options mixed in. Compact and walkable, St Albans is perfect if you like quality pubs without big-city chaos.
Brighton and Hove
Brighton and Hove offers one of England’s most varied pub scenes. Classic seaside pubs sit alongside quirky independents, craft beer bars and laid-back locals that spill onto the pavement on sunny days.
The Lanes are ideal for a relaxed crawl, while the seafront delivers old-school pubs with sea views. It’s informal, inclusive and always buzzing – exactly how a coastal pub city should be.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth’s long naval history has helped shape a brilliant pub culture. Traditional dockyard pubs, cosy Southsea locals and lively student spots give the city real range.
Old Portsmouth is particularly strong for atmospheric historic pubs, while elsewhere you’ll find friendly, no-frills places focused on good beer and conversation. It’s compact enough for an easy pub crawl, with plenty of character packed into each stop.
Norwich
Norwich is consistently ranked among England’s best cities for pubs, and for good reason. With deep brewing roots, the city is full of independent pubs, medieval interiors and riverside favourites.
Real ale lovers are especially well catered for, but there’s plenty of variety beyond that. Many pubs are within easy walking distance, making Norwich ideal for a leisurely, well-planned crawl rather than a rushed night out.
London
London’s pub scene is unmatched for sheer scale and variety. From centuries-old coaching inns to cutting-edge craft beer bars, every neighbourhood offers something different. You could spend years exploring and still find new favourites.
The best pubs in London offer everything from traditional ales and world-class Guinness pours to experimental brews – the city has it all. While it can feel overwhelming, that diversity is exactly why London earns its place among England’s top pub cities.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh combines dramatic surroundings with a pub scene full of personality. Historic Old Town taverns, cosy neighbourhood locals and whisky-focused bars create endless choice within a compact city centre.
Many pubs feel steeped in history, while others bring a more modern edge. Whether you’re warming up after a hill walk or settling in for a long evening, Edinburgh’s pubs excel at atmosphere and welcome.
Manchester
Manchester’s pub culture is bold, diverse and always evolving. Traditional boozers, buzzing beer halls and fiercely independent bars sit side by side across the city.
The Northern Quarter is a standout for variety, but great pubs are scattered well beyond it. Manchester does sociable drinking brilliantly – places built for conversation, group nights out and staying longer than planned.
Wakefield
Wakefield may not shout about its pub scene, but that’s part of the appeal. The city offers a strong mix of historic pubs, riverside spots and proper ale houses focused on quality rather than trends.
It’s friendly, affordable and refreshingly low-key. For pub lovers who value well-kept beer and relaxed surroundings over hype, Wakefield is an excellent choice.
Salisbury
Salisbury’s pubs benefit from the city’s historic setting and slower pace. Traditional inns cluster around the cathedral and market square, offering cosy interiors and a classic pub feel.
This is a city for lingering over a pint rather than rushing between bars. If you enjoy characterful pubs, good conversation and a relaxed crawl, Salisbury fits the bill perfectly.
Chester
Chester’s pub scene leans heavily into atmosphere. Timber-framed inns, historic coaching houses and riverside pubs give the city a timeless feel.
A lot of the best Chester pubs are tucked along the Rows or just inside the ancient walls, making pub-hopping both scenic and easy. It’s a city where the surroundings matter just as much as the pint in your hand.
From historic market towns to buzzing cities by the sea, England offers no shortage of brilliant places to enjoy a proper pub crawl. Once you’ve picked your favourite, make the most of it by staying nearby. Browse our cottages close to these top pub cities and give yourself the perfect base for relaxed evenings and slow mornings after. And if it’s pubs with play areas you’re looking for, our family holiday cottages are ideal.
Meet the author
Ian LewisIan's worked in travel for over 15 years and has written about destinations across the whole of the UK (and beyond). He loves all kinds of getaways with every member of the family on two legs or four, seeking out the more unique and interesting properties wherever he can.
