The George Inn, tucked away in Southwark just a short walk from London Bridge is a living fragment of the area’s history.
A pub has stood on this site since medieval times, and the current building, with roots dating back to the 17th century, holds the distinction of being London’s last remaining galleried inn. Its distinctive architecture – wooden galleries overlooking a cobbled courtyard – offers visitors a rare and authentic glimpse into the city’s past.
Under the stewardship of the National Trust, The George Inn has been carefully preserved, allowing patrons to experience a slice of London’s heritage while enjoying modern amenities. The inn boasts literary connections, with Charles Dickens known to have frequented the establishment and even mentioning it in his novel ‘Little Dorrit’.
In its current incarnation, The George Inn serves as both a public house and a popular tourist spot. Visitors can enjoy traditional British fare and a selection of ales while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of bygone eras. The inn’s interior, characterised by low ceilings, wooden beams, and historical artefacts, creates a genuine ambience that evokes centuries past.
The George Inn regularly hosts various events, including historical talks and themed evenings, providing additional opportunities for visitors to engage with the site’s storied past. Whether one seeks a quiet pint, a hearty meal, or simply wishes to step back in time, The George Inn provides a unique experience.
Visiting The George Inn
The George Inn welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 to 23:00, with extended opening hours until 1:00 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Food is served from 10:00 to 22:00 every day.
It is a family-friendly pub that also welcomes dogs, making it a relaxed stop for both locals and visitors. During warmer months and peak hours, the inn can become busy, so arriving earlier in the day often makes it easier to find a good spot.
The George Inn is located on Borough High Street, close to London Bridge, making it easy to reach by public transport. The nearest Underground station is London Bridge, served by the Northern and Jubilee lines, with the pub just a short walk away.
For a more scenic arrival, Thames Clippers also stop at London Bridge City Pier, which is around a short walk from the inn and offers river services along the Thames.
A number of bus routes also serve the wider London Bridge and Borough High Street area, providing convenient access from across the city. For the most up-to-date routes and journey options, it’s best to check the Transport for London website or journey planner before travelling.
The Local Area
The George Inn sits just a couple of minutes from Borough Market, in an area that blends busy streets, cafes, small eateries, and residential buildings. Much of the surrounding architecture still carries a Victorian feel, with warehouse conversions and older façades offering a sense of how the neighbourhood once looked, despite changes brought by redevelopment and wartime damage.
Nearby landmarks add to the contrast of old and new. The Shard rises just around the corner, its modern glass structure standing in sharp contrast to the historic character of the inn. A short distance away, HMS Belfast sits on the Thames near Tower Bridge, while the Tower of London anchors the riverfront with centuries of history. For something quieter, St Katharine Docks offers a more relaxed waterside setting just a little further along.
Together, these nearby spots show the variety of the area around The George Inn, where historic streets, modern buildings, and riverside landmarks sit within easy walking distance of each other.
Nearby Attractions
The George Inn sits at the heart of a vibrant area rich in attractions, all within walking distance.
- Borough Market
- The Shard
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- HMS Belfast
- Southwark Cathedral
- Old Operating Theatre Museum
- The Clink Museum
- The Golden Hinde
