9 London pubs officially serve the best Guinness pints in the UK

By this point, Guinness has firmly cemented itself in the London drinking canon. And let’s not forget that the Irish stout was a delicious drink long before it was co-opted by Palace-wearing G-splitters. Now Guinness has published its first ever Harp Guide, telling thirsty drinkers where in Britain has mastered the art of the pour. Think of it as like the Michelin guide, but for the black stuff. 

And it’s good news for the stout connoisseurs of the capital, because according to the guide nine of the UK’s best pints of Guinness are served right here in the capital. 

The inaugural annual list has crowned the 35 top boozers for Guinness in Blighty, and almost a third of them are in the Big Smoke. Pubs were chosen not just for their flawless pours, but also for their service, atmosphere and dedication for learning the craft of the stout. Each pub selected will be given a brass harp plaque to be displayed proudly. 

Making the Harp Guide in London were the trendy Soho gastropub The Devonshire, south London Irish haven Skehans Freehouse, and the legendary Carlisle Street joint the Toucan. Also on the list was Stoke Newington icon the Auld Shillelagh, Soho institution (and beloved Time Out watering hole) the Coach & Horses and south London Irish pub Mc & Sons. 

And remember, when tasting Guinness, do say: this one has strong notes of dark chocolate and coffee. Don’t say: I think I’d prefer a Murphy’s, actually. 

Full list of London pubs in the Harp Guide

Here are all the London boozers that serve top-tier Guinness, according to the Harp Guide.

• The Devonshire
• The Coach & Horses
• Bricklayers Arms
• The Auld Shillelagh
• Skehans Freehouse
• The Audley Public House
• The Toucan
• Mc & Sons
• The Fox & Pheasant

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