The Shakespeare

Looking for London's coolest hidden gem where Shakespeare himself might've knocked back a pint? The Shakespeare in London's Barbican area is that perfect mix of historical charm and modern buzz that'll make you feel like you're drinking with the Bard himself (except with way better cocktails and zero plague).

You know those places that just FEEL right the moment you walk in? That's The Shakespeare for you. Perched at one of the highest points in the City of London (fun fact: it's 62 feet above sea level!), this Grade II listed beauty has been serving up good times since 1964, and honestly? It's aging better than all of us.

Picture this: You and your crew, sprawled out on those comfy leather banquettes, board games scattered across the table (YES, they have free board games!), while the resident pub cat makes occasional appearances like the world's furriest bouncer. The pub's layout is basically a cozy labyrinth of good vibes, with different sections that make every visit feel like discovering a new favorite spot.

OH. MY. GOODNESS. Let's talk about happy hour! Between 5-7pm, the cocktails flow like poetry (Shakespeare would approve), and the prices will make your wallet as happy as your taste buds. Pro tip: stick to ordering the same cocktail to keep those happy hour prices rolling - trust me, you'll want to experiment, but commitment has its rewards here!

The food menu might be concise, but what they do, they do RIGHT. Their burger game is strong enough to make any foodie weak at the knees, and the tortellini? chef's kiss It's that perfect pub grub that somehow tastes even better when you're three pints deep and destroying your friends at Monopoly.

Speaking of drinks - the beer selection is straightforward but solid, with everything from local ales to international favorites. And while the Moretti might set you back a few quid, you're paying for more than just the beer - you're paying for the VIBE. And what a vibe it is!

Outside seating? CHECK. Perfect for those rare sunny London days when you want to watch the world go by around the Barbican. The staff? Absolute legends. The landlord's the kind of character that makes you feel like you're in on some amazing secret just by being there.

Located literally two minutes from Barbican station (your drunk self will thank me for this info later), The Shakespeare sits pretty in the Golden Lane Estate, serving as the perfect starting point OR grand finale for your London adventures. It's got that magical quality where you can roll in for "just one" and end up staying all night, making friends with everyone from local office workers to amateur thespians.

The weekends here are surprisingly chill - perfect for those "I can't deal with another packed pub" moments when you still want somewhere with atmosphere. Plus, there's a comedy club in the basement! Because apparently being a great pub wasn't enough, they had to go and add actual entertainment too.

Listen, I could tell you more about the gold-framed Elizabethan portraits on the walls or how it's near where Shakespeare actually lived in London, but here's what you really need to know: The Shakespeare is that rare London pub that makes you feel like you're in on the city's best-kept secret. It's where history meets modern-day revelry, where the drinks are good, the games are free, and there's a CAT, people! A CAT!

Don't be the person who walks past this gem on their way to some overpriced tourist trap. The Shakespeare in London is waiting to be your new favorite story to tell. Just remember to thank me when you're dominating at pub quiz night or making friends with the resident feline. Now go forth and create some memories - the Bard would want it that way!