London is one of the birthplaces of rock ‘n’ roll, home to legendary bands such as Iron Maiden, The Clash, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and Queen. For visitors, exploring historic pubs and bars is a way to dive into the story of British rock (and beyond), while also enjoying unique live music experiences on this sacred ground.
If you’re planning your own rock itinerary in London, the city’s pubs and bars range from venues where iconic artists first took the stage to contemporary spots showcasing up-and-coming bands.
In this guide, we’ve selected the best rock pubs and bars in London, with key details about each venue—including addresses, opening hours, fun facts, and what to expect—so you can make the most of your trip.
Don’t miss our Complete London Guide, covering music venues, museums, and themed shops.
Best Rock Pubs and Bars in London
Cart & Horses
Dingwalls
The Marquis
The Dublin Castle
Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus
Hard Rock Cafe London
Cart & Horses – The Birthplace of Iron Maiden
The Cart & Horses is a historic pub where Iron Maiden kicked off their career in 1976. Proudly branded as “The Birthplace of Iron Maiden”, the venue offers a wide selection of drinks and burgers, along with space for live gigs. In recent years, Paul Di’Anno performed here, and in 2024 Steve Harris brought his project British Lion to the stage.
Address: 1 Maryland Point – London, England
Website: cartandhorses.london
Getting there: Maryland train station (100 m), Stratford train/Underground station (800 m)
Hours: Mon–Thu 5 pm–10:30 pm, Fri 5 pm–12 am, Sat 1:30–5 pm & 6 pm–12 am, Sun 1:30–5 pm & 6 pm–10 pm
Dingwalls – Punk History in Camden Town
Opened in 1973 as Dingwalls Dancehall, this iconic venue became a cornerstone of the UK punk scene, hosting bands like The Clash, Sex Pistols, Blondie, R.E.M., Coldplay, and Foo Fighters. Today, it features several spaces including the Canal Bar, Lock 17, and Terrace Bar.
Address: 11 Middle Yard, Camden Lock Place – London, England
Website: dingwalls.com
Getting there: Camden Town Underground station (600 m), Camden Road station (650 m)
Hours: Daily, 9 am–11 pm
The Marquis – A Classic Pub in Central London
The Marquis is a traditional London pub with live music, housed in a building dating back to the reign of Charles II (1661–1685). A fun fact for Green Day fans: the band played a surprise acoustic gig here in November 2023. The pub has also appeared in films such as Mary Poppins Returns (2018) and Last Christmas (2019).
Address: 51–52 Chandos Pl – London, England
Website: themarquiscoventgarden.co.uk
Getting there: Charing Cross Underground station (80 m), Leicester Square station (350 m)
Hours: Mon–Thu 12 pm–11 pm, Fri–Sat 12 pm–12 am, Sun 12 pm–8 pm
The Dublin Castle – A Camden Icon
The Dublin Castle is a legendary Camden Town rock pub where bands like Madness, Blur, and Travis got their start. Known for daily performances by independent bands and weekend DJ sets, it’s the perfect spot to grab a pint and soak up a truly authentic London rock vibe.
Address: 94 Parkway, NW1 7AN – London, England
Website: thedublincastle.com
Getting there: Camden Town Underground station (300 m)
Hours: Mon–Thu 1 pm–2 am, Fri–Sun 12 pm–2 am
Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus – History and Memorabilia
Since 2019, London’s famous Piccadilly Circus has been home to a second Hard Rock Cafe location. Open all day, it’s a great stop for a meal or a drink while surrounded by rock memorabilia.
Address: 225–229 Piccadilly Criterion Building – London, England
Website: hardrockcafe.com/location/piccadilly-circus
Getting there: Piccadilly Circus Underground station (50 m)
Hours: Sun–Fri 11:30 am–10:30 pm, Sat 11:30 am–11 pm
Hard Rock Cafe London – The Original
The original Hard Rock Cafe opened in London in 1971, founded by two American friends. Over the years, it became famous for live performances—including Paul McCartney and Wings—and for its unique tradition of rock memorabilia. The story began in 1979, when Eric Clapton asked to mark “his seat” with a guitar on the wall. Days later, another guitar arrived with a note: “Mine’s as good as his! Love, Pete.” That Pete was none other than The Who’s guitarist, Pete Townshend.
Address: 150 Old Park Lane – London, England
Website: hardrockcafe.com/location/london
Getting there: Hyde Park Corner Underground station (200 m)
Hours: Sun–Fri 11:30 am–10:30 pm, Sat 11:30 am–11 pm
Beyond Pubs and Bars
London offers much more for rock fans than pubs and bars. To explore legendary clubs, historic concert halls, arenas, museums, and instrument shops, check out our Complete London Guide.
Want to explore even more iconic artists? Don’t miss our articles on Iron Maiden in London and Oasis Must-Visit Places.
