London’s Ten Best Riverside Pubs

The Travel Pages picks London’s ten best riverside pubs, from historic inns to modern brewpubs, all with River Thames riverside locations.

Riverside Drinking at the Dove Pub in Hammersmith in London

Here’s The Travel Pages guide to London’s Ten Best Riverside Pubs, each offering scenic views, standout beers, and delicious food. Whether you’re after a historic haunt or a modern brewpub, this list has something for everyone.

🍺 1. The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

Outdoor Seating at The Mayflower Riverside Pub in London

Steeped in maritime history, The Mayflower claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames. With candlelit interiors, low ceilings, and a charming riverside terrace, it’s a cosy escape from the bustle of the city. The pub is named after the ship that carried the Pilgrim Fathers to America in 1620, and its nautical décor reflects that legacy. Try a pint of London Pride or Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, and pair it with traditional British fare like fish and chips or steak and ale pie.

📍 Address: 117 Rotherhithe Street, London SE16 4NF
📞 Phone: +44 20 7237 4088
🌐 Website: www.mayflowerpub.co.uk

🍻 2. The Gun, Docklands

Outdoor Tables at The Gun Riverside Pub in London

Once a favourite of Lord Nelson, The Gun blends historic charm with modern elegance. Its riverside terrace offers stunning views of the O2 Arena across the Thames. Inside, you’ll find wood-panelled walls, open fireplaces, and a refined atmosphere. The bar serves Beavertown Neck Oil and Camden Pale Ale, while the kitchen delivers upscale British cuisine—think slow-roasted pork belly, Cornish crab, and Sunday roasts.

📍 Address: 27 Coldharbour, London E14 9NS
📞 Phone: +44 20 7515 5222
🌐 Website: www.thegundocklands.com

🍺 3. The Dove, Hammersmith

Riverside Seating at the Dove Pub in Hammersmith in London

This riverside gem boasts the world’s smallest bar room, according to Guinness World Records. The Dove is a quintessential English pub with oak beams, cozy nooks, and a terrace overlooking the Thames. It’s a prime spot for watching the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race. Enjoy a pint of Fuller’s ESB or London Pride, and tuck into hearty pub classics like bangers and mash or a rich beef and ale pie.

📍 Address: 19 Upper Mall, London W6 9TA
📞 Phone: +44 20 8748 9474
🌐 Website: www.dovehammersmith.co.uk

🍻 4. The Grapes, Limehouse

The Grapes, a Tiny Riverside Pub in London

Owned by actor Sir Ian McKellen, The Grapes is a narrow, historic pub dating back over 500 years. Its riverside balcony offers intimate views of the Thames, while inside, Victorian memorabilia and quirky décor add character. Sip on Meantime London Lager or Adnams Ghost Ship, and enjoy dishes like smoked haddock fishcakes or lamb shank with mash. It’s a hidden treasure with theatrical flair.

📍 Address: 76 Narrow Street, London E14 8BP
📞 Phone: +44 20 7987 4396
🌐 Website: www.thegrapes.co.uk

🍺 5. The Cutty Sark, Greenwich

The Cutty Sark Tavern Real Ale Pub in Greenwich — Down by the Riverside at Greenwich’s Cutty Sark Tavern

Named after the famous clipper ship nearby, The Cutty Sark offers panoramic river views from its upstairs dining room. The pub’s maritime theme and relaxed vibe make it a great spot for weekend brunch or evening drinks. Try a Young’s Original or St Austell Tribute, and enjoy dishes like beer-battered cod, roast chicken, or vegetarian wellington.

📍 Address: 4-6 Ballast Quay, London SE10 9PD
📞 Phone: +44 20 8858 3146
🌐 Website: www.cuttysarkse10.co.uk

🍻 6. The Anchor Bankside, Southwark

Pints of Beer at The Anchor Bankside Riverside Pub in London

Nestled between Shakespeare’s Globe and The Golden Hinde, The Anchor Bankside is a historic pub with a lively terrace right on the Thames. The pub serves Greene King IPA and Old Speckled Hen, and the menu includes burgers, fish and chips, and sharing platters. Arrive early on sunny days to snag a riverside seat.

📍 Address: 34 Park Street, London SE1 9EF
📞 Phone: +44 20 7407 1577
🌐 Website: greeneking.co.uk

🍺 7. The Ship, Wandsworth

Dating back to 1786, The Ship is a riverside beacon with a large outdoor terrace and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals for summer drinks and weekend brunches. The bar features Birra Moretti and Thornbridge Jaipur, while the kitchen serves up gourmet burgers, grilled steaks, and vegan options. Live music and DJ sets add to the fun.

📍 Address: 41 Jews Row, London SW18 1TB
📞 Phone: +44 20 8870 9667
🌐 Website: www.theship.co.uk

🍻 8. Bread Street Kitchen and Bar

Part of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant empire, this riverside option offers refined dining with spectacular riverside views. The elegant interior and outdoor terrace make it ideal for special occasions. Enjoy a Peroni Nastro Azzurro or BrewDog Punk IPA, and indulge in dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder, fish pie, or sticky toffee pudding. It’s upscale without being pretentious.

📍 Address: 44 Narrow Street, London E14 8DP
📞 Phone: +44 20 7592 7950
🌐 Website: gordonramsayrestaurants.com

🍺 9. The Horniman at Hay’s, London Bridge

Outdoor Terrace at Horniman at Hay's Riverside Pub in London — Outdoor Terrace at Horniman at Hay’s Riverside Pub in London

Located in the historic Hay’s Galleria, The Horniman at Hay’s offers impressive views of Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast. The pub features Victorian décor and a spacious terrace. Try a Sharp’s Doom Bar or Purity UBU Amber Ale, and enjoy classic British dishes like steak and kidney pudding, fish and chips, or a hearty Sunday roast.

📍 Address: Unit 26, Hay’s Galleria, London SE1 2HD
📞 Phone: +44 20 7403 3405
🌐 Website: www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

🍻 10. The White Swan, Twickenham

This 17th-century pub sits so close to the Thames that high tide sometimes floods the beer garden. The White Swan is beloved for its rustic charm, friendly service, and tranquil riverside setting. Enjoy a Twickenham Naked Ladies or Fuller’s Frontier, and feast on dishes like roast beef, fish pie, or mushroom risotto. It’s a local favorite with timeless appeal.

📍 Address: Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DN
📞 Phone: +44 20 8892 2166
🌐 Website: whiteswantwickenham.co.uk

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