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Top Pubs on the Water in London

Here’s a curated list (grouped roughly east to west) of the finest waterside pubs in London. Be sure to check opening times and book ahead for riverside tables during warmer months.

1. The Dove, Hammersmith

  • Location: 19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, London W6 9TA
  • Google rating: 4.5 / 5
  • Price range: ££ – £££
  • Vibe: Historic, cosy, and full of character

A riverside gem with one of the smallest bars in London, The Dove offers wooden interiors, a sunny terrace and unbeatable Thames views. Perfect for those seeking an intimate spot for a pint or a Sunday roast by the water.
Website: https://www.dovehammersmith.co.uk/

2. The White Cross, Richmond

  • Location: Riverside (off Water Lane), Richmond, TW9 1TH
  • Google rating: 4.4 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Traditional, scenic, relaxed

This iconic pub sits so close to the river that it occasionally floods at high tide — adding to its charm. Expect hearty British dishes, a strong ale selection, and lively riverside seating when the sun’s out.
Website: https://www.thewhitecrossrichmond.com/

3. The Gun, Docklands

  • Location: 27 Coldharbour, Docklands, London E14 9NS
  • Google rating: 4.1 / 5
  • Price range: £££
  • Vibe: Elegant, refined, waterside gastropub

A beautifully restored 18th-century pub offering elevated dining and sweeping views across the Thames to the O2. The terrace is ideal for sunset cocktails, while inside you’ll find roaring fires and fine wines.
Website: https://www.thegundocklands.com/

4.Crate Brewery, Hackney Wick

  • Location: Unit 7 Queen’s Yard, White Post Lane, Hackney Wick, London E9 5EN
  • Google rating: 4.4 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Trendy, canalside, creative energy

Set along the Hackney Wick canal, Crate Brewery pairs industrial-chic design with craft beer brewed onsite and wood-fired pizzas. A favourite for locals and creatives, it’s perfect for summer evenings by the water.
Website: https://www.cratebrewery.com/

5. Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

  • Location: Park Row, Greenwich, SE10 9NW
  • Google rating: 4.2 / 5
  • Price range: ££ – £££
  • Vibe: Grand, heritage, quintessentially British

With its white façade and panoramic river views, this 19th-century pub embodies Greenwich charm. Popular with locals and tourists alike, it’s great for Sunday lunches and watching boats glide by.
Website: https://www.trafalgartavern.co.uk/

6. The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

  • Location: 117 Rotherhithe Street, London SE16 4NF
  • Google rating: 4.5 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Quaint, traditional, hidden gem

A historic riverside tavern that marks the mooring point of the original Mayflower ship. Its tiny deck, wooden interiors, and candlelit atmosphere make it one of the coziest riverside pubs in London.
Website: mayflowerpub.co.uk

7. The Waterside, Imperial Wharf

  • Location: Imperial Wharf, Fulham, SW6 2SU
  • Google rating: 4.3 / 5
  • Price range: £££
  • Vibe: Modern, lively, riverside dining

Sleek interiors meet a huge outdoor terrace at this modern gastropub overlooking Chelsea Creek. A great spot for brunches, after-work drinks or relaxed weekend lunches by the water.
Website: watersideimperialwharf.co.uk

8. The Old Ship, Hammersmith

  • Location: 25 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9TD
  • Google rating: 4.4 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Calm, local, riverside retreat

Nestled between leafy riverside paths, The Old Ship offers traditional ales, British pub fare, and an easygoing vibe. Its outdoor terrace makes it a top pick for sunny afternoons.
Website: oldshiphammersmith.co.uk

9. The Anglers, Teddington

  • Location: 3 Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9NR
  • Google rating: 4.5 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Family-friendly, spacious, riverside charm

With expansive beer gardens and river views, The Anglers is a local favourite for families and walkers alike. Its menu features pub classics and local ales served in a laid-back setting.
Website: theanglersteddington.co.uk

10. The Anchor Bankside, Southwark

  • Location: 34 Park Street, Southwark, SE1 9EF
  • Google rating: 4.1 / 5
  • Price range: ££
  • Vibe: Bustling, historic, tourist-friendly

Just steps from Shakespeare’s Globe, this lively pub offers rooftop views and plenty of space indoors and out. A classic spot for visitors wanting riverside drinks in the heart of the South Bank.
Website: theanchorbankside.co.uk

Quick Tips for Visiting London’s Riverside Pubs

  • Book ahead for weekend riverside tables.
  • Check tide times at Richmond and Greenwich pubs.
  • Walk the Thames Path — many of these pubs connect along scenic river routes.

If you’re exploring London’s waterside neighbourhoods and want to live nearby, discover Essential Living’s London apartments — perfectly placed for riverside walks, local dining, and easy access to the city. You can also find interior inspiration and renter tips at HomeQuarters.co.uk.

Related Reading

If you love exploring London’s best pubs and eateries, check out our guide to the best pubs for Best pubs with a beer garden and 10 Best Places for an Autumn Walk in London. For home pub garden inspiration, visit Homequarters.co.uk.

FAQs About the Best Pubs on the Water in London

What are the best riverside pubs in London for food?

Some of the best riverside pubs for food include The Gun in Docklands, known for its modern British menu, Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich for its Sunday roasts, and The Anglers in Teddington for relaxed waterside dining. All combine great food with stunning Thames views.

Which London pubs have the best river views?

For panoramic river views, The Dove in Hammersmith, The White Cross in Richmond, and The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping stand out. Each offers outdoor seating right beside the Thames, making them perfect for sunset drinks.

Are there riverside pubs in central London?

Yes — The Anchor Bankside near London Bridge and The Mayflower in Rotherhithe are two of the most historic central London pubs on the Thames. Both offer easy access from the South Bank and Borough Market.

Which riverside pubs in London are best for summer?

The Waterside in Imperial Wharf, The Old Ship in Hammersmith, and The Anglers are perfect for summer, thanks to their spacious terraces, riverside beer gardens, and vibrant atmosphere on sunny days.

Are London’s riverside pubs dog-friendly?

Many riverside pubs are dog-friendly, including The White Cross, The Old Ship, and The Mayflower. Most allow dogs in outdoor areas and some even provide water bowls and treats.

Can you walk between London’s riverside pubs?

Yes — the Thames Path connects many of London’s best riverside pubs, from Greenwich to Hammersmith. You can create your own riverside pub crawl, stopping at favourites like The Trafalgar Tavern, The Dove, and The Old Ship along the route.

Which riverside pubs are easiest to reach by public transport?

Most riverside pubs are near Tube or Overground stations. For instance, The Gun is close to Canary Wharf, The Trafalgar Tavern is near Maze Hill, and The Dove is within walking distance of Hammersmith Station.

Are there riverside pubs with live music in London?

Yes — The Anglers and The White Cross often host live acoustic sessions in summer. The Prospect of Whitby also occasionally features traditional folk nights in its historic setting.

What’s the oldest riverside pub in London?

The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping is widely regarded as London’s oldest riverside pub, dating back to around 1520. Its timbered walls and riverside terrace offer a fascinating glimpse into London’s maritime past.

Do any riverside pubs offer private hire or event spaces?

Yes — The Gun and The Trafalgar Tavern both offer elegant private dining rooms with river views, ideal for celebrations or corporate events.

Jacinta Clancy

Author

Jacinta is an expert traveller with her current sights set on exploring the hidden gems of London. She is a food enthusiast and constantly looking for the new hotspots of London to share them with her readers.