London West End Pub Crawl: 5 Bars & Clubs with Shots

Summary

Dance floors, neon lights and new friends in London’s buzzing heart

You’ll jump right into London nightlife with a local host leading you to 3–5 lively bars and clubs around Leicester Square and Soho. Expect free entry everywhere, shots at each stop, exclusive drink deals, and plenty of laughs with new friends along the way. By midnight you’ll probably forget your nerves—and maybe even your shoes—but you’ll remember the feeling.

What’s the experience like?

We met up just outside the first bar near Leicester Square — you could hear music pulsing from inside before we even got our wristbands. Our host, Jamie, was already joking around with a few people who’d arrived early (I think he’s done this a hundred times). He handed us our first free shot — something bright green that tasted like sour apple — and gave us the rundown. I was nervous about joining a pub crawl in central London alone, but honestly, everyone felt the same way at first. The air outside was still warm from the day, mixed with that city smell of rain on pavement and perfume drifting out as doors opened.

We zigzagged through Soho after that, following Jamie and another host who somehow kept track of all twenty of us. At each spot, we skipped the line (which felt like magic), flashed our IDs, and got another shot. There was one club where the floor actually vibrated under my feet — not sure if it was the bass or just too many people dancing at once. Someone from Spain tried to teach me their dance moves; I failed spectacularly but nobody cared. The drinks were cheap with our crawl discounts — which is rare for central London bars — so yeah, I probably had more than I planned.

I lost track of time after Chinatown (the lanterns looked unreal at night), but I remember laughing so hard at something Jamie said that my stomach hurt. He took photos throughout — not always flattering ones, but they captured how messy and fun it all was. We ended up at a club near Piccadilly Circus where the lights kept changing color every few seconds. My shoes were sticky by then (classic club floor), but I didn’t mind. It’s strange how quickly strangers become friends when you’re wandering between clubs together in the middle of London.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pub crawl through central London

• Meet at starting venue
• Visit 2 to 4 more venues
• Enjoy exclusive discounts and shots
• Pass by Leicester Square and Soho

Top questions

How many venues do you visit on this London pub crawl?

You visit 3 to 5 venues depending on your chosen start time: 5 venues at 7:45pm, 4 at 8:45pm, or 3 at 9:45pm.

Is there a dress code for the West End pub crawl?

Yes—smart-casual is required; no sportswear, joggers or flip-flops allowed.

Are traditional English pubs included in this crawl?

No—the tour visits lively dance bars and nightclubs rather than traditional pubs.

What do I need to bring for entry?

A physical, valid ID such as a driver’s license or passport (no photos or copies).

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes—public transport options are available close to all venues visited on the crawl.

Are free drinks included on this London bar tour?

You get free entry to each venue plus a complimentary shot at every stop along the route.

Will there be photos taken during the night?

Yes—the hosts take photos throughout so you’ll have memories (and evidence) of your night out.

What’s included

Your evening includes free entry to every venue visited on the crawl, complimentary shots at each stop, exclusive drink discounts all night long, friendly hosts guiding you safely through central London’s bars and clubs, plus group photos snapped as you go—just show up with your ID and let them handle the rest.