Does London/the UK Have Starbucks? (2026)
Wondering if London and/or the UK has Starbucks? Here’s your ultimate breakdown on where to find them in the capital — from a Londoner!
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.
A basic need in the early morning, a treat with a touch of personalisation…that’s Starbucks.
The renowned American multinational company specialises in coffee and you may be wondering — what would a big city like London be without it?
If finding your favourite pumpkin latte to live your autumn dreams in London is on your list, then you’ll be pleased to know that yes, you can find Starbucks in the UK!
In this blog I’m going to tell you all about where exactly to find Starbucks in London/the UK, what makes them special, and other options if you’d like to go more local.
Does London/the UK have Starbucks?
Starbucks in London
Starbucks initiated its UK operations in 1998 when it opened its first store in London. Since then, London has become a major hub for the company with a dense network of stores spread across the city.
To this day, there are approximately 246 Starbucks cafes in Greater London. And nearly half of these (119) are in Central London!
I would say that if you’re looking for a good coffee after 6 p.m., Starbucks is the way to go. You may be surprised, but most cafes in London close around or before that time.
See, I found out that Londoners have this idea that after 6 p.m. coffee is not necessary (and they are probably right).
But Starbucks serves locals, tourists, and professionals alike, so they know the big game happens at all times!
Starbucks Menu in London
The menu in London largely mirrors the global Starbucks menu, offering a wide range of coffees, teas, frappuccinos, and other refreshments.
However, to please local tastes, Starbucks frequently incorporates regional variants into its offerings, such as seasonal favorites like Pumpkin Spice Latte. The food menu is also adapted to suit British tastes, including the popular sausage rolls, cheese toasties, and English breakfasts.
Among other efforts to be involved in the London community, Starbucks has a National Literacy Trust partnership, which aimed to improve literacy levels across the UK.
It also launched a Barista apprenticeship program to provide job opportunities and training for young people in London and throughout the UK.
Starbucks Locations in London
Rest assured that you will find a Starbucks in London’s most popular spots, like Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Regent Street and more.
Actually, most tube stations (specially the busiest ones like King’s Cross, Victoria and Embankment) will have a Starbucks as soon as you step outside.
But there are three Starbucks locations that stand out out for their popularity or uniqueness, and that is Tower Place near the Tower of London, O2 Arena just beneath one of London’s most popular entertainment venues, and King’s Road in Chelsea, a very fashionable district.
Alternatives to Starbucks in London
As much as I am a big fan of a Venti Mocha Frappuccino, when in London… you should go local as well!
Although I would highly recommend them I’m not suggesting just local cafes, as the UK has some big chains as well that can easily give you the same experience (except you’ll feel like a real Londoner after 😉).
Pret A Manger
Pret A Manger is a very popular chain in London, well-received among locals and tourists alike.
It was founded in London in the mid-1980s and it now has around 450 locations in the United Kingdom, with 273 of them in London.
They claim that in London, “you’re never more than six feet from a coffee shop”, and most of them would likely be a Pret or a Veggie Pret, which focus exclusively on vegetarian and vegan options.
Their sandwiches, pastries, toasties and drinks are an absolute delight, as they are fresh every day. And it is also regarded as one of the best cafes to work or study in, with WiFi availability.
Just a quick warning before you sit down for a long working session: make sure it has a bathroom! Some Prets in Central London are designed just for a quick stop or take away.
Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee is a British multinational coffeehouse company that was founded in London in 1971. It’s the the second-largest coffeehouse chain globally and the largest in the UK!
I was surprised to discover that its presence passes the 2,700 stores, but I shouldn’t be as they are located across high streets, within shopping centers, offices, airports, and even self-serve coffee stations in supermarkets and gas stations (the most convenient if you ask me!).
Costa Coffee’s menu is designed to have options for a variety of tastes and preferences. It also regularly refreshes its food and drinks to adapt to seasonal themes and trends. That way, the menu remains fresh, relevant, and exciting for anyone popping in anytime.
P.S. – If you just need a quick cup hop into your nearest Tesco, Co-Op or Sainsbury’s to check if they have one of those quick self-serving Costas for a takeaway coffee.
Caffè Nero
For a less British and more European style coffee house brand, Caffè Nero is the one for you.
It established a strong presence in London since 1997 and it now has over 800 stores in the United Kingdom. In the capital, you can find them mainly in busy tube stations and big shopping centers.
Caffè Nero is well-known for its high-quality Italian coffee, which is blended using beans from several countries to create a complex flavor. The food includes traditional Italian recipes such as paninis, but it also has British sandwiches, pastries, and cakes.
However, one of the main aspects that makes them stand out is its unique ambiance. The cafes are designed to provide a warm, comfortable space where anyone can relax, read, or meet people.
And you’ll absolutely fall in love with the design, as it emphasizes the Italian tradition with exposed brickwork, large windows, and classic Italian decoration.
Black Sheep Coffee
Black Sheep Coffee is a boutique coffee chain originated from London and known for its strong commitment to ethical sourcing and roasting specialty coffees.
It was founded in 2013 with the vision of challenging the traditional coffee industry by buying directly from farmers from Brazil, Ethiopia and Peru. That way, they ensure a fair-trade approach.
They also roast their beans in-house, allowing for meticulous control over the quality and flavor.
They have around 36 locations across London, ranging from big cafes in buzzing areas such as Regent Street, Leadenhall Street, and Canary Wharf to kiosk-style outlets in train stations.
FYI, their menu also includes alcoholic drinks, which makes it the perfect spot for a casual gathering at any time of the day!
Local Cafes!
Yes, chains are convenient and comfortable, but there’s something about local cafes (especially in London) that could never be topped.
Visiting local cafes not only gives you the opportunity to experience amazing flavors within a friendly (and mostly small) community, but it also has significant impact as you’re supporting the economy and enjoying the real and unique local culture.
On top of that, it contributes to sustainable consumption. In London, many local cafes try to use local ingredients, work hard to minimize waste and have good relationships with other businesses to provide a bigger food and drink offer.
I can’t list all of my favourites here (believe me, there are A LOT), but I can guide you to check out my London Cafe Guides for the best ones in each neighbourhood!
“But I still want Starbucks in London…”
Then you are in the city for it!
London as a major global city of course has lots and lots and lots of Starbucks, one of the biggest global companies. Just keep your eyes open for the famous green logo or look at my map below!
Map of Starbucks in London
Thanks for reading my Starbucks in London/the UK Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- Does London/the UK Have Dunkin’ Donuts?
- Does London/the UK Have a Costco?
- Does London/the UK Have a Whole Foods?
- Does London/the UK Have Chipotle?
- London Food Guides
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
