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Shot by a City Insiders curator.
St Stephen's Tavern
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
historicpolishedlocal-crowd
About the Vibe
Perched in the shadow of Big Ben, St Stephen's Tavern is less a tourist trap and more a working pub that's seen it all. Since 1875, it's been the watering hole for politicians, journalists, and locals—still featuring the original division bell that once summoned MPs to vote. You'll find their hand-battered fish and chips legendary (they sell so many they joke about renaming themselves), and their full English breakfast is solid enough to make you forget your hangover. It's the kind of place where you can sip a pint of Badger or Outland while soaking in London's political history without feeling like you're in a museum.
Known For
- •hand-battered fish and chips
- •original division bell
- •full English breakfast
- •location near Big Ben
Best For
lunch near Parliamentpost-sightseeing pintbreakfast before exploring
1 review
City InsidersEditorialMarch 30, 2026
Historic pub with legendary fish and chips
St Stephen's Tavern is one of those rare pubs that manages to be both a historic landmark and a genuinely welcoming local spot. The location is unbeatable—you're literally steps from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, yet it doesn't feel like a tourist trap. The fish and chips are the real star here; their hand-battered version is crispy, generous, and worth the trip alone. I've seen politicians and tourists side-by-side at the bar, which says something about its appeal.
The atmosphere is warm and traditional without being stuffy. You'll find the original division bell still on display, a nice touch that reminds you of the pub's parliamentary connections. The service is friendly and efficient, whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast or settling in for a pint. It's not the prettiest pub in London, but it's got character and history that you can't buy.
If you're in Westminster and want a proper British pub experience with a view of the city's political heart, this is it. The breakfast is solid, the beer selection is decent, and the location is hard to beat. Just be prepared for a bit of a walk if you're coming from the Tube—the nearest station isn't right on the doorstep.