There are few more quintessentially English experiences than supping a pint of ale in a centuries-old public house, where the walls could tell you stories. London is awash with such places, remarkably so in some respects, given the destruction wreaked by the Great Fire of London, Second World War bombs and post-war planners.

Marked in the map below are London’s most striking historical pubs, including the place where Elizabeth I is rumoured to have danced around a cherry tree. Some were around before Shakespeare; others are comparatively recent Victorian additions—but all have a fascinating story behind them. Along with some wonderfully historical pubs in Central London, there are few pubs beyond Central London that are a little further away, but worth a detour if you have time. There are many more options beyond these, but following are some of the most noteworthy.