As the Guinness Harp Guide 2026 reveals its prestigious rankings, nine London pubs have secured coveted spots among the 35 UK establishments recognized for pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. The carefully selected venues, representing 25% of the total selections, will each receive a Guinness plaque to display, highlighting their exceptional service standards and quality.
Among the honored establishments, the Bricklayers Arms in Putney, Mc & Sons at London Bridge, and Skehan’s Freehouse in Nunhead have been recognized for their commitment to the perfect pour. The Audley Public House in Mayfair and The Auld Shillelagh in Stoke Newington also made the list, with The Coach & Horses and The Devonshire in Piccadilly rounding out the celebrated venues.
The Auld Shillelagh appears frequently across multiple recommendation sources, including the Harp Guide, making it a standout destination for Guinness enthusiasts. Located at 105 Stoke Newington Church Street, this pub has built a strong reputation for its creamy, perfectly aerated pints and authentic Irish pub heritage. Many visitors also enjoy pairing their pints with a full English breakfast, showcasing the diversity of pub food in London.
Consistently celebrated across Guinness guides, The Auld Shillelagh delivers creamy, perfectly-poured pints with authentic Irish heritage in Stoke Newington.
Nicholas Payman, Diageo Head of Guinness, stated that the guide aims not only to recognize these exceptional venues but also to drive footfall to them throughout the year. The inaugural 2026 edition focuses on pubs that excel in Guinness quality, proper pouring techniques, and exceptional customer service.
Other notable London establishments appearing in various Guinness rankings include The Fox & Pheasant in Chelsea and The Toucan in Soho. The Faltering Fullback on Perth Road features a maze-like beer garden, while the Blythe Hill Tavern on Stanstead Road is praised for its fantastic pints at a reasonable £6.05 price point.
For those seeking variety, London offers everything from no-frills backstreet pubs in Camden to upscale establishments like the venue at 30 Bruton Place, which pairs properly cared-for pints with oysters. Guinness is also expanding its London presence with the Open Gate Brewery opening in Covent Garden on December 11th, featuring restaurants, a bar, and interactive pint-pouring experiences.
Whether you’re a casual drinker or a Guinness connoisseur, London’s top-ranked pubs provide numerous options for experiencing the perfect pint of Ireland’s most famous export.
