Even though most of Europe scoff at the typical Englishman’s cuisine, it’s hard to criticise the traditional range of drinks. Who could refuse a glistening jug of Pimms on one of those rare sunny afternoons in Hyde Park? Or a freshly poured, smoky pint inside the crumbled walls of an early 20th century boozer? If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, then I don’t know what will. If you’re ever in the city, don’t leave without knocking one of the following down your neck. After all, is no drink really better than a bad drink?

Porter

With a love of dark beer came the invention of the porter- the slightly estranged twin of Stout. Porter used to come in a stronger style called stout porter, now abbreviated to just stout. London is reported to have birthed porter in the 1700s with a slight mystery as to who invented such a beauty. Porter has reduced in strength drastically since World War 1 due to the restrictions on malt use at the time. But alas, since the rise of craft beer, strong percentage porters have made a very welcome comeback.

The Carouser recommends: Fullers London Porter, Wild Card Brewery Ace Of Spades, Tuatara Brewery London Porter, Darkside Of The Moo Imperial Porter

Gin

What used to be regarded as a high society beverage, is now widely available at all prices and included in most bar’s stock. Gin has been adopted by London which has its own trademark styles. Old Tom and London Gin are the city’s signature favourites. But like most English cuisine, we stole gin from the Dutch who originally used it for a bit of courage.

The Carouser recommends: Opihr Gin, King Of Soho London Dry Gin, Sipsmith London Dry Gin

Pimms

This cooler was concocted by James Pimm in 1823. The drink was made out of gin, fruit and herbs to compliment the food of the seafood bar that he worked in. Now the drink has been adopted as a national summertime staple. The range has different spirits mixed in each. Their most popular and original “No 1 Cup” is made with gin and the “No 6 Cup” is made with vodka. The most basic way of serving this would be with lemonade and a hell of a lot of fruit.

The Carouser recommends: Pimms No 1, Pimms No 3,

Beer

Due to the English’s love of beer, quality and variety is plentiful in London. A beer on almost every corner will contain a wide selection of pumps and bottles. But, there seems to be a war brewing (see what I did there). Real Ale vs. Craft Beer. The emergence of the craft beer scene has prompted people to take sides and usually in most bars you will find one or the other. I personally like all beer, and feel like I’ve hit the jackpot if I find both in the same place.

The Carouser recommends: Siren Brewery, Beavertown Brewery, Weird Beard Brewery