Local Legends The Hidden Pubs of London

London’s leading pub tour guide and host of the celebrated Liquid History Tours guides readers off the beaten path and through the doors of London's lesser known but most authentic pubs. Welcome to the world of London’s finest backstreet boozers.

It’s easy to stumble into London iconic pubs. The ones where Shakespeare trod the boards, or Dickens scribbled his next novel. What’s more difficult and ultimately more rewarding, is finding that special pub that has just the right vibe; the pub that’s tucked away from the maddening crowds of tourists and noisy out-of- towners; that almost mystical pub that you’ll want to return to on a rainy evening, or show off to your friends.
These are the hidden gems that Warland introduces you to. Covering every corner of London from the city centre to its outer limits and beyond, these watering holes are permeated by personality and a passion for traditional hospitality. While the interiors might not boast architectural wonders or famous artwork, their unique qualities are brought to life through Horst Friedrichs' stunning photography, which illuminates their character and charm, their idiosyncratic hosts and patrons, the menus scrawled on chalkboard, the proudly polished brass, worn leather stools, and quirky artifacts. Warland is a delightfully engaging companion, but the pubs are the stars of this invaluable book that’s as informative as it is collectible.

JOHN WARLAND established Liquid History Tours in 2011. As a noted garden designer, winning six RHS Gold Medals at the Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows, he explores the streets of London for quirky history, liquid refreshment and horticultural bounty. Little wonder that a beer garden is his happy place. He is the author of the bestselling book Liquid History: An Illustrated Guide to London’s Greatest Pubs and is based in London.

HORST FRIEDRICHS’ photographs have appeared in National Geographic, The New York Times, and Stern magazine. Prestel has published nine of his books including Cycle Style, Drive Style, Best of British, Coffee Style, Bookstores, and Great Pubs of England. He lives in London.