Source: https://top-list.co/top-best-riverside-pubs-and-bars-in-london-v13058.html
- Boaters Inn, Kingston
- White Swan, Twickenham
- White Cross, Richmond
- City Barge, Chiswick
- Old Ship, Hammersmith
- Blue Anchor, Hammersmith
- The Lighterman, King’s Cross
- The Narrowboat, Islington
- Mayflower, Rotherhithe
- The Princess Of Wales, Clapton
Boaters Inn, Kingston
The Boaters Inn is located on the Thames in the lovely Canbury Gardens, just ten minutes from central Kingston. This pub has a riverside beer garden that also backs directly onto the park, as well as a peaceful sunset balcony. With a 65-seat riverside raised dining area opposite the bar and a smaller dining space by the back garden, the interior is a mix of classic and contemporary.
The Boaters has always been known for serving interesting ales and as such they are CAMRA certified and have an ever-changing selection of real ale from local and national microbreweries; all interesting and sometimes obscure. They are also a local hub for food and have a seasonally changing menu for lunch and dinner, a comprehensive bar snacks menu as well as a full Sunday roast offering. During the summer the pub also offer a full BBQ menu from the garden kitchen.
The Boaters Inn is also a very family friendly establishment and offers games, colouring books, crayons and a children’s menu for the little ones. As well, they are a dog friendly business so please feel free to bring the pets along for a bowl of water.
- Google Rating: 4.3/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8541 4672
- Website: https://www.boaterskingston.com/
- Address: Canbury Gardens, Lower Ham Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT2 5AU
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White Swan, Twickenham
The White Swan, one of the best riverside pubs and bars in London, is a traditional free house in Twickenham on the banks of the River Thames. The pub was built in the 17th century. You can see it in the Samuel Scott print, dated 1760, that hangs above the fire in the bar. You can relax on the riverside terrace of The White Swan in sleepy southwest London as rowers glide by on the river below. This small pub swells on matchdays, as rugby fans enjoy a pint or two at this picture-book pub before and after matches at nearby Twickenham Stadium.
The pub has two rooms, a terrace balcony, and a garden on the riverbank. It has about 12 tables of various shapes and sizes inside. In the winter, it’s a very cozy pub, especially when the fire is lit. This pub opens its doors to the balcony and riverside patio in the summer. When the tide rises, a portion of the garden is engulfed by the river. Do you want to see wait staff potentially wading through water to get you a drink? You’ve arrived at the right place.
- Google Rating: 4.3/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Fri 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM, Sat 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM, Sun 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 3077 1129
- Website: https://thewhiteswanlondon.com/
- Address: 14 New Row, Greater, London WC2N 4LF
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White Cross, Richmond
The World Famous White Cross is the only traditional pub on the Richmond riverfront. It has long been a part of life on the River Thames and is located in a particularly lovely section of the Thames. It is the best place along the river to enjoy the wonderful view, whether relaxing inside on a cold winter’s day or soaking up the sun in the garden.
This pub takes pride in its attention to detail and impeccable customer service, and it strives to offer the best of British classics and homemade food made with only the best seasonal British ingredients. So, whether you’re in need of somewhere to recharge after a long day, or refuel after a walk along the river, pop in and let the pub take care of the rest.
The White Cross is also one of the only remaining pubs where you can still enjoy the high tide coming to you. The Thames in Richmond is tidal and several days a month the tide is high enough to come into the garden. If it is exceptionally high then enjoy the feeling of being marooned in a pub with a pint of beer or a glass of wine as nature won’t allow you to leave.
Crowds flock here in summer to bask on the waterfront with a cooling drink, but fires and little nooks in the many rooms keep things cosy in winter. Happy staff pull pints of Young’s Special and Bombardier at the rectangular bar, or pour Pimm’s and lemonade.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM, Sat to Sun 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8940 6844
- Website: https://www.thewhitecrossrichmond.com/
- Address: Surrey, Riverside House, Water Ln, Richmond TW9 1TH
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City Barge, Chiswick
The City Barge, one of the best riverside pubs and bars in London, is a historic 14th-century public house with a wealth of history behind it and is situated on the Thames riverside, nestled in the picturesque area of Strand on the Green, Chiswick. Its name comes from an old barge that was once moored between here and Oliver’s Island, as a toll collection vessel. Following a timely refurb, the pub now boasts heritage decor, a recycled century bar, open fires and alfresco seating.
The City Barge offers a wide range of beverages, including 7 rotating hands pull ales such as Twickenham Naked Ladies and Truman’s Runner as well as an extensive wine list. You can enjoy any of these in the stunning paneled dining room, traditional bar, or simply sit outside by the river. The pub has extensive outside seating on both sides of the building, with tables and chairs on the river and a comfortable terrace amidst a herb garden on the far side of the building.
With a chef’s table and upstairs dining room for hire, the Barge is also serious about food, offering set lunches, brunch and dinner: beef tartare with anchovy mayo; Thai-style broths; lamb cutlets with puréed white beans, spinach and borage flowers; ‘crabacado’ burgers, steaks, pies, sorbets, ices and rich puddings.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Fri 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sat 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Sun 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8994 2148
- Website: https://www.citybargechiswick.com/
- Address: 27 Strand-on-the-Green, Chiswick, London W4 3PH
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Old Ship, Hammersmith
If you want to enjoy a slice of the Thames-side life, head to the Old Ship in Hammersmith. The Old Ship is situated on the banks of the River Thames, ideally located a short walk from Ravenscourt Park, Stanford Brook and Hammersmith station. This pub is a firm favourite with the locals and has been for hundreds of years. Nowadays, the Old Ship offers two stories of outside seating to make the most of the views and to maximize the amount of al-fresco dining. The pub also caters for events, so if you have a party to book, this should be on your shortlist.
Here, they focus on the best things in life: cask-conditioned beers, craft beers, mouthwatering, chin-dribbling burgers straight from the shack, full-bodied wines, and a seasonal dining menu. All summer, you can enjoy the beauty of the pub and the views of the river.
Buoyed up with an extremely talented crew at the helm and a refreshingly modern twist look but with character, they are ready to service you with delicious food, eclectic drinks, and jolly good times. This pub is ideal for refueling after a bike ride or a stroll down the river. You are welcome to share this special section of the river with the rowers, sailors, swans, ducks, coots, dogs, and the entire Old Ship crew.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8748 2593
- Website: https://www.oldshiphammersmith.co.uk/
- Address: 25 Upper Mall, London W6 9TD
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Blue Anchor, Hammersmith
The Blue Anchor is an iconic pub in West London. In prime position on the banks of the River Thames in Hammersmith, The Blue Anchor is always warm and welcoming. It’s a home away from home whether you’re after a riverside drink in the sunshine or a warming glass of Malbec by an open fire. A short walk from Hammersmith Bridge, The Blue Anchor was first licensed in 1722 and is still a true locals pubs some 300 years later. Downstairs is traditional, wood-panelled 17th-century pub, while upstairs you’ll find the beautifully refurbished ‘River Room’, with incredible views of the river.
It’s a great spot for a drink in the sun or a delicious lunch, with a wood-panelled bar and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames and Hammersmith Bridge, and there’s a varied kids’ menu for younger diners, as well as highchairs and unisex baby changing facilities. Craft beers, an unthreatening, uncomplicated, and affordable wine list, and a menu featuring modern pub classics are among the foods and beverages chosen to be “scrumptious, seasonal, with something for everyone.”
- Google Rating: 4.3/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sat 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 3951 0580
- Website: https://www.blueanchorlondon.com/
- Address: 13 Lower Mall, London W6 9DJ
The Lighterman, King’s Cross
This perfectly located pub and restaurant spans the entire edge of Granary Square on one side and Regent’s Canal on the other. Inspired by the industrial past of King’s Cross, The Lighterman is a great spot to sit back, relax and watch Regent’s Canal bubble along. It’s a versatile location where the food and drink are pretty much neck and neck.
Menu highlights include wood-grilled meats, superfood salads, and flatbreads topped with thoughtful, seasonal combinations, teamed with fresh juices, wines by the glass, or on-trend cocktails. For a sophisticated evening out with a lover, sample The Lighterman’s tasty modern British fare and tidy cocktail list, or simply work your way through a pint of cask ale by the bar. Both are heartily encouraged.
The bar is a popular spot for after-work drinks, while upstairs offers slightly more formal dining. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in an abundance of light, and it’s a truly delightful space for views of the canal and beyond, especially as the sun sets. With its first-floor wraparound terrace overlooking the waterways and a canalside alfresco area, this gastropub is a worthy rival to the more established terraces on Granary Square. There are three terraces: a wraparound terrace upstairs, seating on Granary Square overlooking the fountains, and a canalside terrace.
- Google Rating: 4.0/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM, Fri 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sat 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Sun 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 3846 3400
- Website: https://www.thelighterman.co.uk/
- Address: 3 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
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The Narrowboat, Islington
The Narrowboat is a hidden gem and the only pub in Islington that is directly on Regent’s Canal. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Angel’s Upper Street, it’s the ideal hideaway for those looking to unwind in a nook or enjoy the sun on the terrace with friends and family.
They have a great selection of cask ales and local craft beers, as well as tasty cocktails – they’re known for their perfect Bloody Marys. Seasonal menus created by Head Chef Andy include light brunches, seafood dishes, and mouthwatering Sunday roasts made with locally sourced ingredients. The roast dinners are legendary, but there’s also other traditional fare available, all served with the creative flair for which this kitchen has become known.
The pub, true to its name, is long and snug, but it’s spread across multiple floors, so if you’re looking for a good event space, there are three floors to choose from here, all with a great view and relaxed atmosphere. And the drinks menu will not disappoint, with a carefully curated wine list and a wide selection of beers to choose from, as well as cocktails galore, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Living on the canals of London is not for the faint of heart. However, The Narrowboat offers a taste of that unique way of life from the comfort of dry land.
- Google Rating: 4.1/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Fri 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Sat 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Sun 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 7400 6003
- Website: https://www.thenarrowboatpub.com/
- Address: 119 St Peter’s St, London N1 8PZ
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Mayflower, Rotherhithe
The Mayflower is one of the oldest pubs on the river Thames and is located in Rotherhithe Village just two minutes from Rotherhithe Station. The bar is classically warm and cozy with French doors opening out onto a deck over the Thames.
The Mayflower pub is a hidden gem in the heart of Rotherhithe, London. Dating back to 1620, the Mayflower appeared suddenly along the Thames path, its white and black-timbered frontage set with diamond-leaded windows positively oozes tradition. Inside, beyond the counter, the small main bar area with cozy alcoves, open fire leads to a deck outside at the rear.
There’s no arguing with its charms. Dark timber beams, dangling mugs, low ceilings and a forest of plants make it hard to describe without slipping in the word ‘cosy’. The first floor dining room is well known for good food at good value, and you’re unlikely to get a table unless you’ve booked. The food menu offers delicious, classic British dishes using local and fresh ingredients and is complemented by a great range of well-kept traditional ales, craft beers, local gins and fine wines. The plum seats are out on the riverside decking beneath the star-spangled banner. But beware. At high tide, people in the front row will get wet. Be sure to catch the sunset and try the best fish and chips in London!
- Google Rating: 4.6/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 7237 4088
- Website: https://www.mayflowerpub.co.uk/
- Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF
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The Princess Of Wales, Clapton
Taking pride of place on the banks of the River Lea, The Princess of Wales is the go-to pub in Hackney. You’re guaranteed a warm welcome and friendly service throughout your visit, especially if you bring along your furry friend! Head Chef David passionately creates innovative dishes as well as serves everyone’s pub favourites.
They have plenty of choices behind the bar; an array of beers, indulgent cocktails, plus that all-important mid-morning coffee. Specifically, The drinks offering includes a sizeable selection of craft beers, a wine list dominated by the new world with prices starting at £16.95, and a concise set of original cocktails alongside a fair few classics, too. With a wonderful covered and heated beer garden with riverside views, The Princess is the perfect spot for enjoying the great outdoors all year round.
The dining area is the perfect space for all your casual events needs, from a sit-down meal for up to 40 people or drinks and nibbles party, there’s no better space. Breakfast is served daily, and the lunch and dinner menus both feature classic pub fare including a sandwich selection at lunchtime. Over the popular weekends you can tuck into their Burger Shack dishes and dive into their mouth-watering Sunday Roasts.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Fri to Sat 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Next day), Sun 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8533 3463
- Website: https://www.princessofwalesclapton.co.uk/
- Address: 146 Lea Bridge Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 9RB
