Ten Historic Pubs for Real Ale in Greenwich
The Travel Pages picks ten historic pubs for real ale in Greenwich, including the oldest pub in Greenwich, riverside pubs and pubs with large beer gardens.
Here’s our guide to Ten Historic Pubs for Real Ale in Greenwich, London, each steeped in history and serving up some of the finest brews in the area. 🍺
The Plume of Feathers
Tucked away near Greenwich Park, The Plume of Feathers is the oldest pub in Greenwich, dating back to 1691. With its low ceilings, wooden beams, and cosy one-room layout, it feels like stepping into a time capsule. The pub sits directly on the Greenwich Meridian Line, making it a unique stop for history buffs. It’s listed in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide and serves Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter and Sharp’s Doom Bar, alongside rotating guest ales.
📍 19 Park Vista, Greenwich, London SE10 9LZ
📞 +44 20 8858 1661
🌐 plumegreenwich.com
The Cutty Sark Tavern
Named after the famous tea clipper docked nearby, this riverside Georgian pub dates back to 1795. With stunning views over the Thames and a nautical-themed interior, it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The pub offers a solid line-up of cask ales including Meantime London Pale Ale and Camden Pale Ale, plus seasonal guest brews. It’s a great spot for traditional pub food as well, and for a pint with a view.
📍 4-6 Ballast Quay, Greenwich, London SE10 9PD
📞 +44 20 8858 3146
🌐 cuttysarkse10.co.uk
The Trafalgar Tavern
Built in 1837, this riverside gem was a favourite haunt of Charles Dickens, who even featured it in Our Mutual Friend. The grand Victorian architecture, wood-paneled walls, and framed maritime prints evoke a bygone era. The pub serves London Pride and Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, both excellent choices for real ale lovers. The whitebait starter is a favourite, being a nod to its 19th-century menu.
📍 Park Row, Greenwich, London SE10 9NW
📞 +44 20 8858 2437
🌐 trafalgartavern.co.uk
Richard I (The Tolley)
Located on Royal Hill, this charming pub is known locally as The Tolley. It’s a 19th-century establishment with a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere and a leafy beer garden. Inside, you’ll find exposed brickwork and a relaxed vibe. The pub serves Shepherd Neame’s Spitfire and Whitstable Bay Pale Ale, both brewed in Kent and perfect for a crisp pint.
📍 52 Royal Hill, Greenwich, London SE10 8RT
📞 +44 20 8692 2996
🌐 richardthefirst.co.uk
The Gipsy Moth
Right next to the Cutty Sark, The Gipsy Moth is a lively pub with a large garden that seats up to 200 people. The building dates back to the 18th century, and its name pays tribute to Sir Francis Chichester’s yacht. Inside, it’s a mix of old-world charm and modern flair. The pub offers St Austell Tribute and Greene King IPA, along with a rotating selection of guest ales.
📍 60 Greenwich Church Street, London SE10 9BL
📞 +44 20 8858 0786
🌐 thegipsymothgreenwich.co.uk
The Coach and Horses
A fixture in Greenwich Market since 1780, The Coach and Horses is a classic British pub with a cosy interior and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s known for its seasonal selection of real ales, with Doom Bar from Cornwall’s Rock Brewery as a permanent fixture. The pub also features four rotating guest ales, making it a great spot for ale enthusiasts. The food menu also has an interesting range of sausages – the Great British Banger!
📍 13 Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
📞 +44 20 8858 7031
🌐 the-coach-and-horses.co.uk
The Ashburnham Arms
one of the many historic real ale pubs in Greenwich
Built in 1855, The Ashburnham Arms is a hidden gem nestled in a quiet residential street. This Shepherd Neame pub has a loyal local following and a reputation for excellent service. It offers its own range of ales, including Spitfire Amber Ale and Master Brew, plus seasonal guest selections. The pub also hosts quiz nights and community events.
📍 25 Ashburnham Grove, Greenwich, London SE10 8UH
📞 +44 20 8858 0261
🌐 ashburnham-arms.co.uk/
The Duke of Greenwich
Dating back to the mid-1800s, The Duke of Greenwich has undergone a stylish renovation while retaining its historic charm. Located near Maze Hill station, it boasts a spacious beer garden and a smoker out back for BBQ lovers. The pub features a rotating calendar of mainly South London brews, including Brick Brewery Peckham Pale and Villages Rafiki, making it a magnet for craft ale fans.
📍 80 Royal Hill, Greenwich, London SE10 8RT
📞 +44 20 8858 2824
🌐 dukeofgreenwich.com
Ye Olde Rose & Crown
Situated next to the Greenwich Theatre, Ye Olde Rose & Crown is a traditional pub with a long-standing reputation. The building itself dates back to the 18th century, and its interior features classic woodwork and vintage decor. The pub serves Fuller’s London Pride and Young’s Bitter, amongst others, and is known for its hearty pub meals and live performances.
📍 68 Greenwich High Road, London SE10 8NN
📞 +44 20 8858 2848
🌐 greeneking.co.uk
The Mitre
Located between Greenwich rail station and the Cutty Sark, The Mitre is a convivial pub with roots going back to the 19th century. It’s a great spot for watching sports, enjoying live music, or relaxing with friends. The pub offers Sharp’s Atlantic Pale Ale and Greene King Abbot Ale, both well-balanced and flavourful. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring Greenwich.
📍 291 Greenwich High Road, London SE10 8NA
📞 +44 20 8858 1248
🌐 themitregreenwich.co.uk
Whether you’re a seasoned ale aficionado or just dipping your toe into the world of cask-conditioned beer, Greenwich offers a rich tapestry of historic pubs that combine heritage, atmosphere, and exceptional brews. 🍻
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