Best Pubs On The River Thames

Alright, grab a pint (metaphorically, or not—no judgment here) and let’s talk about something glorious: pubs on the River Thames. I mean, is there anything better than cold beer, a warm pub, and water sloshing by? Okay, maybe a nap, but we’re close.

We’re not talking about fancy cocktail bars where they charge you £18 for a “gin experience.” No, no. We want proper pubs. The kind with creaky floors, fireplaces that smell like old oak, and a view that makes you forget your rent is due.

The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

Let’s start with a heavyweight. The Mayflower claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames, and it’s not shy about it. You walk in, and it’s like stepping into a history book—but one that serves fish and chips.

Legend has it the Pilgrim Fathers actually set sail from here. Yes, those Pilgrims. So, you can sip a pint where history happened. Just don’t expect to discover America afterwards. That’s a bit much for a Tuesday.

The terrace is tiny but pure magic. You’re right on the water, with St. Paul’s shimmering in the distance. Perfect for that “I’m so cultured” Instagram story.

The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping

Now, this one has a murderous past. Literally. It was a hangout for pirates and smugglers. The noose hanging outside? Not for decoration. Yikes.

But don’t let that scare you off. The place is gorgeous, with a long, narrow balcony over the Thames. On a sunny day, it’s pure chaos—but the good kind, like a family reunion with better beer.

Order the pie. Order two pies. You’re on a boat-adjacent adventure, and carbs are your fuel. Trust me on this.

The Old Ship, Richmond

Richmond is basically the postcard of London. It’s pretty, it’s green, and the river is all lazy and swan-filled. The Old Ship sits right there, all white and welcoming.

This pub has a massive terrace. Massive. You can watch rowers struggle and feel smug about your stationary choice. The menu is pub classics, but done right. Think steak and ale pie that hugs your soul.

Bonus: You can wander along the towpath afterwards and pretend you’re in a Jane Austen novel. Or an episode of The Crown. Your pick.

45 London Riverside Pubs & River Thames Pubs 2024 - CK Travels

The Ship, Wandsworth

Don’t confuse this with the Richmond one. This Ship is a brutalist beauty—all concrete and glass, sitting right under Wandsworth Bridge. It looks like a sci-fi spaceship landed on a pub.

But the beer garden? Unreal. It’s massive, right on the water, and always full of people who look like they’re having the best day of their lives. You’ll be one of them.

They do a mean Sunday roast. And I mean mean. The kind of mean that makes you want to hug the chef. Just don’t. That’s weird.

The Dovetail, London Bridge

Okay, hear me out. It’s technically a Belgian beer pub, not a traditional English boozer. But it’s on the river, so it counts. Rules are made to be broken.

The beer list is longer than your arm. Literally twelve pages of beers you’ve never heard of. It’s like a beer passport. You’ll try a cherry lambic and wonder why you ever drank lager.

Plus, it’s tucked away under a railway arch. Cozy, dark, and full of people who take their cheese-and-beer pairings very seriously. Join the cult.

The Angel, Bermondsey

This one is a secret. Sort of. It’s hidden down a narrow alley behind Bermondsey Wall. You’ll feel like a pirate discovering treasure. Treasure that serves nachos.

The terrace is tiny, but it overlooks the river with a view of Tower Bridge. At sunset, it’s chef’s kiss. You’ll take seventeen photos. You’ll post all of them.

The Best Riverside Pubs In London For Drinks By The Thames

Go on a weekday. Weekends get packed tighter than a tube at rush hour. Unless you enjoy being elbowed by a man in chinos. Your call.

The Cutty Sark, Greenwich

You can’t miss this one. It’s named after the famous ship, and it’s right next to the actual ship. So you get double maritime vibes. Don’t try to board the pub; it’s stationary.

The pub itself is big, bustling, and has a lovely balcony. You can wave at the tourists on the clipper and feel superior because you’re drinking. Priorities.

It’s a Greene King pub, so the beer is reliable, not life-changing. But the view? Life-changing. Especially when the sun hits the river like liquid gold.

The Narrow, Limehouse

Owned by Gordon Ramsay. Yes, that Gordon. So the food is actually good. Not just “pub good,” but “I’d pay for this on a plate” good. Fish and chips that crunch like a dream.

It’s sleek, modern, and sits right at the mouth of the River Lea. The floor-to-ceiling windows make you feel like you’re on a boat. A very stable, non-seasick boat.

Perfect for a date. Or for pretending you’re on a date with yourself (no shame). Just order the sticky toffee pudding. Thank me later.

So there you go. A smattering of riverside wonders. The Thames has hundreds of pubs, but these are the ones that make you say, “Why don’t I live on a boat?” Grab a friend, grab a coat (it’s England, you fool), and go explore. Cheers!