Why does The French House only serve half-pints?

It is a long-standing tradition at the pub to serve beer only in half-pint measures, encouraging a focus on wine, conversation, and the bohemian Soho atmosphere — though full pints are served on April Fool's Day.

What is The French House's wartime history?

During the Second World War it became the unofficial London headquarters of the Free French Forces, and General de Gaulle is said to have drunk here.

Is there food at The French House?

Yes, alongside the ground-floor bar there is a well-regarded dining room upstairs serving seasonal British and French-influenced food.

Soho, Westminster

The French House

Established 1891Leicester SquareSoho

About The French House

A Soho legend and former gathering place for the French Resistance during WWII. Known for serving beer only in half-pints and its bohemian atmosphere.

History & Heritage

The French House on Dean Street has been a Soho institution since the late 19th century, but it earned its place in history during the Second World War. When France fell in 1940, the pub became the unofficial headquarters of the Free French Forces in London, and General Charles de Gaulle is said to have drunk here while rallying the French Resistance.

In the decades since, it became a legendary haunt of Soho's bohemian artists, writers, and drinkers, including Dylan Thomas — who famously left the only manuscript of Under Milk Wood under a chair here — as well as Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, and Brendan Behan.

What to Expect

The French House proudly maintains its eccentric traditions: beer is served only in half-pints (except on April Fool's Day), and there is no music, television, or mobile phones encouraged, keeping the focus firmly on conversation. Expect an excellent wine and aperitif selection, a buzzing crowd, and a genuinely unique slice of old Soho. There is also a well-regarded dining room upstairs.

Known For

French Resistance historyHalf-pints onlyBohemian crowdSoho character

Features & Facilities

Historic interior
Wine selection
Food served
Central location

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does The French House only serve half-pints?: It is a long-standing tradition at the pub to serve beer only in half-pint measures, encouraging a focus on wine, conversation, and the bohemian Soho atmosphere — though full pints are served on April Fool's Day.
What is The French House's wartime history?: During the Second World War it became the unofficial London headquarters of the Free French Forces, and General de Gaulle is said to have drunk here.
Is there food at The French House?: Yes, alongside the ground-floor bar there is a well-regarded dining room upstairs serving seasonal British and French-influenced food.

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