London is a city steeped in history, and one of the best ways to experience its rich heritage is through its historic pubs. From charming watering holes that have served locals for centuries to atmospheric taverns that have witnessed significant events, these establishments offer a unique glimpse into the past. At

DUKES London, we invite you to explore some of the best

London historic pubs, each with its own fascinating story to tell.

The Oldest Pubs in London

No guide to London’s historic pubs would be complete without mentioning

The Olde Cheshire Cheese. Nestled on Fleet Street, this iconic pub dates back to 1667 and has welcomed famous patrons, including Charles Dickens. With its dark wood panels and winding corridors, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a pint and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era. After your visit, make your way back to DUKES London, where you can enjoy a refined evening in our stylish bar, inspired by the traditional British pub experience.

A Pub with a View

For those who appreciate a good view, head to

The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping. This riverside pub boasts a history dating back to the 16th century and offers stunning views of the Thames. Known for its connection to infamous pirates and smugglers, it’s a delightful place to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the boats glide by. Following your visit, return to DUKES London for a peaceful night in one of our

luxurious rooms, allowing you to recharge after a day of exploration.

Literary Links

If you’re a literature lover,

The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden is a must-visit. This historic pub, established in 1623, has been frequented by renowned writers such as John Dryden and Charles Dickens. With its rich literary history, it’s an ideal spot to sip a pint while reflecting on the works of these great authors. After indulging in the literary atmosphere, you can enjoy an

elegant dinner at DUKES, where our menu features dishes inspired by classic British cuisine.

The Ghostly Side

For those intrigued by the supernatural,

The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead offers not only history but also ghostly tales. This pub dates back to 1585 and is linked to the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin. With its rustic charm and eerie anecdotes, it’s a perfect spot for a spooky pint. After your haunted experience, unwind at DUKES London, where you can relax in our inviting

drawing room, perhaps with a comforting nightcap to settle your nerves.

Craft Beers and Traditional Fare

The Jerusalem Tavern in Clerkenwell is one of London’s oldest pubs, boasting a history that stretches back to the 14th century. Known for its selection of craft beers and traditional fare, it’s a fantastic spot to indulge in a hearty meal while enjoying a fine pint. 

Plan Your Pub Crawl

As you embark on your journey to discover London’s historic pubs, consider creating a pub crawl to make the most of your experience. Each pub offers its own unique charm and history, ensuring that every stop is filled with stories and memories. After a delightful day of exploration, retreat to DUKES London, where you can

unwind in style, sharing your favourite moments from the day.

Join Us at DUKES London

At

DUKES London, we believe that immersing yourself in the local culture is an essential part of any visit. Our prime location makes it easy to explore the best London historic pubs, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort of our hotel.

Book your stay with us today and prepare for a memorable experience filled with history, charm, and delightful discoveries. Cheers to your London adventure!

London Fashion Week is a highlight on the global fashion calendar, attracting designers, influencers and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.  

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the catwalks, it's important to find a retreat for yourself offering both exceptional comfort and high-end dining experiences.

DUKES London, nestled in the heart of Mayfair, is the perfect choice for those attending this year’s iconic event.

A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of London

At

DUKES London

London Fashion Week

Each of our guest rooms and suites comes with special touches to ensure you have a comfortable night’s sleep. Showcasing our timeless heritage and style, our guest rooms are classically and elegantly decorated in keeping with the history of the area, while providing all the amenities the modern traveller would need.

Located in the heart of the city, DUKES London offers unparalleled convenience. Just a short walk from the vibrant fashion districts of Mayfair and Covent Garden, you’ll have easy access to runway shows, exclusive parties and fashion exhibitions. 

Dining at DUKES: A Culinary Experience

GBR (Great British Restaurant): 

Indulge in the best of British cuisine at

GBR

Whether you're starting your day with a hearty breakfast, enjoying a leisurely lunch between shows, or unwinding with an evening dinner, GBR offers a dining experience that’s as sophisticated as it is satisfying.

DUKES Bar: 

No stay at DUKES would be complete without a visit to our world-renowned

DUKES Bar

Famous for its martinis, the bar exudes an air of timeless elegance. It’s the ideal spot to relax with a perfectly crafted cocktail. 

Afterwards, retire to the Cognac and Cigar Garden for the final nightcap of a perfect Mayfair evening.

Afternoon Tea: 

Served in our elegant

Drawing Room

Expect delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam and an assortment of delicious pastries. 

Accompanied by a selection of fine beverages, our Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to relax and recharge during the frenzy of fashion week.

Why Choose DUKES London?

Our central location, luxurious accommodation and varied dining options make us the ideal choice for those seeking both style and substance during London Fashion Week. 

So, as you prepare for one of the most glamorous times of the year, make sure your stay is just as stylish by choosing DUKES London. 

Why not

book your room or suite

As the colours of autumn light up London, it's the perfect time to explore the city’s most beautiful walks. 

Wander through the Royal Parks or along nearby trails, before returning to the warmth and comfort of your home away from home with us. 

In this blog, we’re sharing our top 5 recommendations for scenic autumn walks in London:

St James's Park | Autumn Walks London

Getting there: 5-minute walk from DUKES London

Begin your autumnal adventures with a leisurely stroll through

St James's Park, one of the most beautiful and historic parks in London. 

Just a stone's throw from

DUKES London, this park is a sanctuary of peace amidst the bustling city. As you wander along the tree-lined paths, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the autumn leaves will frame iconic views, such as Buckingham Palace.

St James's Park is also home to various wildlife, including its famous pelicans. Why not pause and take a moment to watch them basking on their favourite rocks in the middle of the lake?

Hampstead Heath | Autumn Walks London

Getting there: 20 minutes by taxi or 30 minutes by Underground (Northern Line from Charing Cross to Hampstead)

For those seeking a more rugged experience,

Hampstead Heath is ideal. This sprawling parkland offers a wild, untamed feel that contrasts with the manicured elegance of London's central parks. During autumn, the Heath is ablaze with fiery colour.

Start your walk at Parliament Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the London skyline. The golden hues of the cityscape in autumn are nothing short of breathtaking. From here, you can explore the wooded areas and ponds that make the area so unique. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit

Kenwood House, a neoclassical villa on the edge of the Heath surrounded by tranquil landscaped gardens - it’s one of London's hidden gems.

Kew Gardens | Autumn Walks London

Getting there: 35 minutes by taxi or 45 minutes by Underground (District Line from Green Park to Kew Gardens)

Kew Gardens is a must for nature enthusiasts, especially during the autumn months when the 300-acre plot is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours. 

The world-renowned botanical garden is home to a vast collection of plants, trees and flowers from all corners of the globe. Autumn is the perfect time to explore, as the trees shed their leaves in a dazzling display of gold and crimson.

Begin your visit with the Treetop Walkway, where you can observe the changing foliage from 18 metres above the ground. Then, continue your exploration in the Arboretum and the iconic Temperate House, the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world. 

Richmond Park | Autumn Walks London

Getting there: 30 minutes by taxi or 40 minutes by Underground (District Line from Green Park to Richmond)

Richmond Park, the largest of London’s Royal Parks, is perhaps best known for its resident deer population. Its 2,500 acres span ancient woodlands and grasslands, where the herd can be spotted grazing against a backdrop of autumnal colours at this time of year. 

Start your journey at Pembroke Lodge, a beautiful Georgian mansion with panoramic views over the Thames Valley. From here, you can wander through the Isabella Plantation, an enchanting woodland garden especially beautiful in the autumn. 

The Thames Path | Autumn Walks London

Getting there: 15 minutes by taxi or 25 minutes by Underground (Jubilee Line from Green Park to London Bridge)

For a walk that combines London’s rich history with the beauty of the riverways,

the Thames Path really is a standout choice. 

Start your walk at the iconic Tower Bridge and continue along the path towards Greenwich, where you’ll pass by historic landmarks such as the Tower of London and the reconstructed Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even continue your walk all the way to the Greenwich Peninsula, home to the famous Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. 

Autumn walks in London give you the best chance of experiencing the city and its surroundings in all its seasonal splendour. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll through a historic park or an adventurous hike through ancient woodlands, there’s something on this list for everyone. 

With

DUKES London as your base, you’re perfectly positioned to explore these beautiful landscapes. Why not treat yourself to something sweet on your return and book

Afternoon Tea in the Drawing Room? After a day on your feet, there's no better way to unwind! 

Spend a perfect day in St James’s London with our guide. Discover the charm of this historic area with our bespoke itinerary.

If you’re looking to spend a perfect day in St James’s London, we’ve got a great itinerary prepared for you.

From historical landmarks to charming cafes, this historic area is packed with different things to see and do during your visit.

Here’s how you can make the most of your time, all within walking distance from us here at DUKES London:

Morning: Explore Buckingham Palace

A visit to St James’s London isn’t complete without seeing Buckingham Palace, where you can watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. This colourful display of pageantry, featuring the King’s Guard in their distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, is a must-see.

If you’re visiting in the summer, consider taking a tour of the State Rooms to get a glimpse of the royal residence’s opulent interiors. They are lavishly decorated with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto, as well as exquisite English and French furniture.

Lunch: Picnic in St James's Park

After your trip to the palace, why not enjoy a picnic in St James’s Park? At DUKES London, we offer a special ‘Picnic in the Park’ package, where you can savour a gourmet picnic hamper filled with traditional British fare.

It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the park with your partner, friends or family. The hamper includes a selection of sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Spread out a blanket, soak up the sun, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of London’s most picturesque parks.

Afternoon: Discover The Royal Academy of Arts

After lunch, make your way to the Royal Academy of Arts, about a 20-minute walk from the park. Hosting rotating exhibitions of fine art, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works, you’ll see works by famous artists like Gainsborough, Turner, and Hockney.

The RA is housed in Burlington House, a grand building that’s an architectural marvel in itself. Take your time to explore the galleries and perhaps even catch their annual Summer Exhibition, a calendar highlight showcasing pieces by both new and established artists.

Early Evening: Shopping in Jermyn Street

Spend the early evening browsing the shops along Jermyn Street, renowned for its high-end menswear and bespoke tailoring. This historic street, just a 10-minute walk from DUKES London, is a paradise for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and quality materials.

Explore shops like Floris, a historic perfumery that has been crafting exquisite fragrances since 1730, or Paxton & Whitfield, one of London’s oldest cheese shops, which offers an array of artisanal cheeses and gourmet foods.

Dinner: Dine at Great British Restaurant

For dinner, share a meal at the Great British Restaurant (GBR) - a modern take on British cuisine using the finest seasonal ingredients. Whether you fancy a decadent Wagyu Burger, an earthy beetroot salad, or just the classic Fish and Chips, the menu has something for everyone.

For a more exclusive experience, GBR also offers a private dining room perfect for parties of up to 20 people. This space provides a secluded setting for special occasions, whether a family celebration, a business dinner, or a gathering with friends.

Nightcap: End the Day at DUKES Bar

After a day of exploring St James’s London, head back to us here at the hotel for a nightcap at our famous DUKES Bar.

One of the highlights of the cocktail menu is our legendary gin martini, often regarded as one of the best in the world. Crafted with precision and care, this cocktail has become synonymous with our bar’s reputation for excellence.

Enjoy a classic martini, or let our expert bartenders surprise you with a new creation, making your evening at DUKES Bar truly special.

If this sounds like your perfect day, why not book a stay with us? We'll be delighted to help you personalise your itinerary for a memorable day out in St James’s London.

For more information on the retail therapy available around our luxury hotel, read our shopper’s guide to Mayfair.