Beverage Guide for First-Time Visitors to London

London, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary landscape, offers a variety of beverages to cater to every taste. Whether you are visiting for the first time or simply exploring the city, this guide will help you navigate the local drinks scene.

Understanding the Local Drinking Culture

When in London, it’s worth noting that the city has its own unique drinking culture. The British are known for their tea-drinking habits, and coffee is also widely accepted. London has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous real ales and lagers available. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, water and fruit juices are readily available and recommended. Regarding alcohol, it's important to remember that the legal drinking age in the UK is 18, so minors cannot purchase alcohol.

The Tap Water

One of the most recommended drinks in London is the tap water. If you're visiting as a first-time visitor, the tap water in London is clean and pleasant to drink. In fact, it is often said that the tap water in London is some of the best in the world. You will find that there’s no need to buy bottled water in the city, as the tap water is safe to drink.

Supermarket Books

Supermarkets in London are a great place to find a wide range of beverages. They sell a variety of cordials, fruit juices, and beer. You can even find the common brands of malt whisky here. Here are some of the recommended drinks:

Orange Juice: A refreshing and natural option, perfect for refreshing your body after a long day of exploring the city. Becks Blue Alcohol Free Beer: For those looking for a non-alcoholic beer option, Becks Blue is a great choice. It has a light, crisp taste that is reminiscent of the original Becks. Glenfiddich Malt Whisky: For whisky enthusiasts, Glenfiddich is a classic choice that offers a smooth and flavorful taste.

Popular Drinks in Different Contexts

Water: In London, water is a staple drink. It is safe to drink straight from the tap, which saves you money and ensures that you always have a refreshing drink available.

Tea: Tea is a fundamental part of British culture. Whether you opt for a strong Assam or a delicate Darjeeling, tea is versatile and can be enjoyed with or without milk. In many cafes and pubs, you can also try traditional afternoon tea, a quintessential British experience.

Coffee: If you are more inclined towards coffee, you will find that coffee is widely accepted in London. Cafés and coffee shops are plentiful, offering a range of blends and brewing methods. From bitter and strong espressos to milder, sweeter cappuccinos, there is a coffee to suit everyone.

Real Ales: For beer enthusiasts, London offers an extensive selection of real ales. Real ales, often served from cask in traditional pubs, provide a unique and refreshing taste. Whether you prefer a mild light ale or a robust bitter, you are sure to find something that suits your palate.

Lagers: If you prefer a cold and refreshing lager, you will find many different options in London. Lagers are often served particularly cold and are usually enjoyed on a hot day or after a night out.

Wine: London has a diverse wine market, offering a wide range of options from around the world. With access to international vineyards, you can find everything from sparkling wines to reds and whites.

Cocktails: For those looking to try something new, London’s cocktail scene is both vibrant and inventive. You’ll find a myriad of stylish bars and venues that offer both classic cocktails and cutting-edge mixed beverages. Be prepared to be amazed by the creativity and quality of the mixology scene in London.

Conclusion

No matter what your taste, London’s diverse and vibrant beverage scene has something to offer. From refreshing water and delightful tea to the vast array of alcoholic drinks, there is something for everyone. So, the next time you visit, be sure to try out these local favorites and enjoy the full experience of London’s unique drinking culture.