Top Ten: Riverside Pubs in London
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The Dover Hammersmith
How about enjoying a pint of Guinness in a Guinness world record-winning bar? Not only can The Dove in Hammersmith claim to be one of the most picturesque riverside pubs in the world, it can confidently say it is home to the world’s smallest bar room. Dating back to the 18th century, this tiny historical fixture – and its well-hidden entrance – even marks the reach of the River Thames during the great flood in 1928.
Address:19 Upper Mall, W6 9TA
2. The Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich
Looking like something more suited to sunny seaside getaways, the Trafalgar Tavern has been an eye-catching fixture along the banks of the River Thames since 1837, and remains a welcoming pit-stop for visitors to Greenwich. With large picture windows taking full advantage of the pubs riverside location, and a heavy dose of maritime history being kept alive on the portrait-decked walls, get a pint, grab a seat and sail away on the fantastic atmosphere of this historical pub.
Address: Park Row, SE10 9NW
3. The Cutty Sark, Greenwich
Enjoy history with a modern twist in this triple-floored Thames-side pub. Founded in 1795, historically-inspired interiors of dark wood and period furniture combine with light, bright spaces to make the most of fantastic views over the river and the O2 beyond. Try and grab a window seat or else enjoy the view of the pubs river terrace and enjoy a more relaxed side of the capital.
Address: 4-6 Ballast Quay, SE10 9PD
4. The Ship, Wandsworth
Founded in 1786, The Ship in Wandsworth joins almost every other Thames pub in vying for the title “Oldest Riverside Pub”. However old it may actually be, The Ship stands out against other riverbank locals for its uniquely youthful twist. A range of outdoor spaces, including outdoor huts with televisions and heaters. It may not be London’s oldest pub, but The Ship has definitely aged the best.
Address: 41 Jews Row, SW18 1TB
5. Rotunda, Kind's Cross
It’s not all about history with your hops, try Rotunda at King’s Cross and enjoy the modern marvels that come with an up-to-the-minute bar and restaurant. Located on Regent’s Canal, Rotunda offers first class food, homemade cocktails, and even a bottomless brunch for those who want to start the day in the best way. Visitors looking for the best of British should try the traditional Sunday roast, washed down with one of 20 wines available by the glass.
Address:Kings Place, 90 York Way, N1 9AG
6. The Waterway, Maida Vale
You don’t have to go to Venice to enjoy the charm of canals, in fact you don’t have to tackle the bustle of central London, either - just stop by The Waterway in North London’s Maida Vale. Founded in 2002, this waterside gastropub has been voted as home to London’s best terrace, and offers food as good as the views over Grand Union Canal.
Address: 54 Formosa St, W9 2JU
7. Tattershall Castle, Victoria Embankment
You’ll want your sea legs about you when you step foot into this unique London pub. Set on a 1934-built steamer, the boat is now permanently moored at Embankment for a Thames location unparalleled by other riverside pubs. A must-see for London visitors, if you grow tired of the view, the lively music and comedy schedule is sure to keep you entertained.
Address:Victoria Embankment, SW1A 2HR,
8. Town of Ramsgate, Wapping
The perfect choice for an historical tipple by the Thames, this Grade II listed pub in Wapping dates back to 1758 and still boasts many original interior features. Once the departing point for sailors and their sweethearts, the neighbouring Wapping Old Stairs still have declarations of love inscribed into the walls, and the rather less lovely historical post where condemned pirates were chained at rising tide. Luckily the terrace offers customers a more pleasant experience of the river.
Address: 62 Wapping High St, E1W 2PN
9. Prospect of Whitby, Wapping
Said to date back to 1520, the Prospect in Whitby lets you step into, and all over, history, thanks to its original 400-year-old flagstone floor and ship masts and beer barrels set into its building. Once a meeting place of smugglers, sailors and other unscrupulous characters, the pub today is a much more welcoming place for locals and tourists to enjoy a riverside pint.
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, E1W 3SH, Wapping
10. Narrow, Limehouse
Grade II listed and with a celebrity chef to boot, The Narrow in Limehouse is a comfy, relaxed spot either for a drink or for a first-class meal, conceived by Gordon Ramsey himself. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a generous outdoor terrace brings the spectacular views over the Thames right to your dining table.
44 Narrow St, E14 8DP, Limehouse
