Best British Pubs in Paris: Where to Find a Proper Pint

On my recent trip back to London, I had an unsettling realisation: I’m officially more Parisian than British. The pubs, the ales, even the accents—they felt both familiar and foreign at once. Yet, living in Paris, I still crave a proper British pub—the kind where you stand at the bar shouting at football matches, nursing a pint of real ale, and digging into pub grub that soothes your very soul.

As a chef and a self-confessed beer geek (proudly noted in my recent musings on craft beer in Paris), I’m always on the lookout for those rare Parisian spots that genuinely capture the essence of a British pub. Here’s my chef-approved list of the best British pubs in Paris, each offering atmosphere, authenticity, and a welcome taste of home.

The Bombardier

If nostalgia had an address, it would be The Bombardier. The carpet literally hasn’t changed since I was an 18-year-old apprentice chef (that’s 22 years ago!). With its authentic British atmosphere and reliably good beer selection, it remains a haven for expats.

Chef’s Tip: Go for the Sunday roast or a pint of real ale, both comforting classics.

The Freedom Pub

Located conveniently near the Champs-Élysées, The Freedom is ideal for grabbing a pint during sightseeing or meeting up after work. Back when I worked nearby, this was my regular stop for a quick drink with colleagues, blending tourists and locals effortlessly.

Chef’s Tip: The rare treat of Adnams beer on tap is a real highlight.

The Blossom Arms

Relaxed, inviting, and authentically British, The Blossom Arms offers the quintessential gastropub vibe. It quickly became a family favourite during a pre-Christmas visit thanks to its fantastic food.

Chef’s Tip: Best fish and chips in Paris—trust me. Their beer selection is modest but acceptable, even if I do blame the limited range on Parisian tastes.

Stolly’s

Alright, technically an Irish bar, but Stolly’s easily earns its place here thanks to the fantastic atmosphere and friendly crowd. This lively Marais spot truly comes alive around St. Patrick’s Day.

Chef’s Tip: For an authentic and joyous St. Patrick’s Day experience, Stolly’s is unbeatable.

The Cambridge Public House

This stylish cocktail bar might seem an unusual choice, but its inclusion among the world’s best bars justifies a visit. It offers sophisticated cocktails rather than classic pints, making it perfect for elevating your night out.

Chef’s Tip: A perfect spot for refined drinking and world-class cocktails.

The Highlander

The Highlander is where expat nostalgia meets late-night revelry. Dark, gritty, and energetic, it’s ideal for dancing, drinking, and making questionable yet memorable decisions until early hours.

Chef’s Tip: Perfect for late-night escapades.

Honourable Mention: Frog Pubs

As covered extensively in my craft beer blogs, Frog Pubs consistently deliver quality beer brewed on-site. They’re a solid choice if you’re craving craft beers in a lively pub environment. They are though, a middle of the road Parisian vision of what a british pub should be.

Bonus Recommendation: Project Sausage

While not a pub per se, I have to mention Project Sausage—the ultimate British street-food haven in Paris. They serve the best British bangers, sausage rolls, and pies this side of the Channel. Perfect for when you’re homesick for authentic British grub. Follow them on instagram to check out whats cooking.

Tying it all Together

Each of these pubs offers something unique, enhancing the diverse beer and food culture in Paris. These pubs provide comforting slices of Britain, offering a satisfying alternative to Paris’s broader craft beer scene, which I’ve covered in depth on my blog posts.

Chef’s Personal Picks

• Best Fish & Chips: Blossom Arms
• Top Pint of Ale: The Freedom (Adnams!)
• Favourite for Atmosphere: Bombardier
• Best Late-Night Fun: The Highlander
• Best Cocktail Experience: Cambridge Public House
• Best British Comfort Food: Project Sausage

Final Thoughts

Despite fully embracing Parisian life, my appreciation for a proper British pub remains unwavering. These spots prove that the charm of British pub culture can thrive beautifully even in Paris. I invite you to visit these pubs and share your own favourites—especially any hidden gems I’ve missed.

Have another British pub in Paris you’d recommend? Drop your tips in the comments below!

Chef Tris

Food Tour Guide

From the bustling streets of Paris to the heat of a professional kitchen, my life has always revolved around food. A Brit who moved to France at 16, I trained as a chef in a Parisian palace kitchen at 18 and have spent decades cooking, eating, and living like the French.

By day, I run kitchens and events, but Eat Like The French is my side hustle—a way to share my passion for French food through writing and food tours. After a detour into tech recruitment, I returned to what I love most: cooking and storytelling—one dish, one tour, and one bite at a time.