Menu

The 15 Best London Riverside Pubs

When it comes to enjoying a pint with a view, London Riverside Pubs offer some of the best locations in the city. The tranquil waters of the River Thames provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely drink or meal, making these establishments popular spots for tourists and locals alike.

Whether you're looking for a traditional English pub experience or a more upscale setting, the riverside pubs in London have something to offer everyone. From historic buildings with centuries of stories to modern establishments serving craft beers and cocktails, there's no shortage of options along the riverbanks.

For those in search of the best London Riverside Pubs, look no further than the list below. These 16 establishments have been handpicked for their unique charm, excellent service, and unbeatable riverside locations.

Our method for this guide

Our ranking of london riverside pubs in London is editorial. It combines public reputation, how focused each business is on this service and the information it gives about its work.

Featured positions are clearly marked and only offered to businesses that already earned their place in the guide.

Top 3Complete listMapHow to pick one

Standout options

Each option links to its full entry below.

#1
The Raven Tower Bridge
4.5557 reviews
#2
Prospect of Whitby
4.44,549 reviews
#3
The Ship
4.41,117 reviews

Browse 15 local options

The Raven Tower Bridge, London#1
Notable strengths

  • Customers rave about the flavorful lamb burger, friendly staff, and great family feel of the pub.

  • The cozy and wonderful atmosphere, along with delicious food and beverages, make it a must-visit spot.

  • The perfect location near the Tower Bridge, the perfectly crunchy fish n chips, and the variety of cider choices impress visitors.

  • The super friendly staff, top-notch beer, and delicious Moo Pie create memorable experiences for guests.

The Raven Tower Bridge

4.5557 reviews
218 Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom

The Raven Tower Bridge is a beloved pub located in London, offering a range of services and features to its customers. With an impressive rating of 4.5 based on 557 reviews, it is clear that this establishment holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Visitors will enjoy service options like outdoor seating and dine-in facilities, as well as live performances as highlights. The pub also ensures accessibility with features like a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and offers a variety of alcohol choices, including beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine. Additionally, amenities such as toilets are readily available for patrons.

Dive into the warm and inviting atmosphere of The Raven Tower Bridge for a delightful pub experience that will leave you wanting to return for more.

Prospect of Whitby, London#2
Notable strengths

  • Ordered halibut but felt it was just like fish and chips, service, atmosphere, and location were excellent.

  • Chips were cold, but the atmosphere inside was great, historical significance added to the experience.

  • Fabulous historical pub with amazing views, wonderful old building filled with historical artifacts.

  • Food was delicious, atmosphere was perfect, and the view was breathtaking, a gem of a pub overflowing with history.

Prospect of Whitby

4.44,549 reviews
57 Wapping Wall, London E1W 3SH, United Kingdom

Prospect of Whitby is a renowned pub located in London, United Kingdom. This historic establishment offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. Notable for its quiz night events, this pub also provides a casual and cosy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy.

With a rating of 4.4, based on 4549 reviews, customers have shared their experiences at Prospect of Whitby:

The Ship, London#3
Notable strengths

  • An historic pub tucked down an alley just a short walk from Monument tube, it is definitely worth seeking out.

  • Small, off the main streets, 150 years old. Quaint, authentic pub.

  • My dad and I happened upon The Ship on a Wednesday in October after our tour at the Globe and just before visiting the Tower of London. It was a little before lunch and we went upstairs for lunch.

  • Was served by the lovely Jack today he recommended what drinks were good for the summer, Katie mentioned the nourish bowl as i said i wanted something to eat but not hot as the weather is so lovely. These two were both very helpful. Will deffo be back.

The Ship

4.41,117 reviews
11 Talbot Ct, London EC3V 0BP, United Kingdom

The Ship is a charming pub located in the heart of London. It offers a cozy and casual atmosphere, perfect for groups looking to enjoy a delicious meal or sip on refreshing beer and cocktails. Customers have praised the historic ambiance and the attentive service provided by the staff.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening or a place to celebrate with friends, The Ship is the perfect choice. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in London!

Tamesis Dock, London#4
Notable strengths

  • Customers rave about the incredible views, especially of the London Big Ben, making it a perfect spot for photos.

  • The relaxed and cozy atmosphere is highly praised, offering a unique contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

  • Guests appreciate the friendly staff, great drink selection, and the option to enjoy drinks with stunning river views late into the night.

  • While some minor issues have been noted, like small spaces and limited drink choices, overall, Tamesis Dock receives high praise for its ambiance and location.

Tamesis Dock

4.32,287 reviews
Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TY, United Kingdom

Tamesis Dock is a renowned bar located in Albert Embankment, London. With a fantastic rating of 4.3 from 2287 reviews, it's clear that customers love this establishment.

If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in London, Tamesis Dock is the place to be!

Anchor Bankside, London#5
Notable strengths

  • Great location and friendly staff

  • Delicious fish and chips paired perfectly with a beer

  • Charming ambiance with a view

Anchor Bankside

4.29,101 reviews
34 Park St, London SE1 9EF, United Kingdom

Anchor Bankside is a renowned pub located in London, United Kingdom. The establishment offers a wide range of services and features, including Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, Great cocktails, and Live performances. The atmosphere is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trending, making it a popular spot among visitors.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Founder's Arms, London#6
Notable strengths

  • Nice clean and tidy venue with friendly staff and great cocktails.

  • Impeccable service, diverse music, delicious food, and a memorable experience.

  • A beloved spot with stunning views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a drink.

  • Fantastic riverside pub with great views and top-notch service from the friendly manager and team.

Founder's Arms

4.27,122 reviews
52 Hopton St, London SE1 9JH, United Kingdom

Founder's Arms is a vibrant pub located in London, United Kingdom. They offer a range of service options such as dine-in and delivery along with great bar food and live performances. Their commitment to accessibility is evident with wheelchair-accessible facilities.

Customers rave about the pub, with a notable rating of 4.2. Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

Founder's Arms is praised for its delicious food, extensive drink selection, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional service. Visit this pub for a memorable experience by the Thames and St. Paul's Cathedral!

The Horniman at Hays, London#7
Notable strengths

  • The roast beef is average, but the gravy is amazing

  • Great location with extraordinary views of the Thames

  • Delicious food with generous portions

  • Amazing pies and fantastic steak pie

The Horniman at Hays

4.25,891 reviews
Unit 26, The Horniman at Hays, Hay’s Galleria, Greater, London SE1 2HD, United Kingdom

The Horniman at Hays is a popular pub located in Greater London, United Kingdom. The pub offers a variety of services and features that make it a great choice for customers looking for a unique dining experience. Some of the highlights of this establishment include outdoor seating, dine-in options, and live performances.

Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at The Horniman at Hays. Here are some key points from their feedback:

Overall, customers recommend The Horniman at Hays for its food, atmosphere, and friendly service. If you're looking for a cozy pub with a great selection of beers and pub food, this is the place to be.

The Pommelers Rest, London#8
Notable strengths

  • The online ordering was down due to sold-out items, but the menu selection was wonderful. Fast service, delicious food, and a great time overall.

  • Great spot near Tower Bridge, where ordering and payment are convenient through QR codes. Good quality, affordable prices, and tasty dishes like fish and chips.

  • Beautiful pub with a view of Tower Bridge, large, clean, and reasonably priced. Great menu selection, friendly staff, and delicious food. Impressive customer service when a mistake was made with the order.

  • Poor food quality compared to other Wetherspoons, with issues involving the manager. Managers' customer relations were disappointing.

The Pommelers Rest

4.23,843 reviews
196-198 Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UN, United Kingdom

The Pommelers Rest is a popular pub located in London. Known for its fast service and casual, cozy atmosphere, this establishment offers a range of amenities, including alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, spirits, wine, and more. Customers have praised the friendly staff, delicious food, and reasonable prices in their reviews. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

Customers enjoy the family-friendly environment and find it to be a great place to dine near iconic locations like Tower Bridge. With a solid rating of 4.2, The Pommelers Rest continues to attract locals and tourists looking for a memorable pub experience.

The Barrowboy & Banker, SE1, London#9
Notable strengths

  • A proper British pub near London Bridge with good atmosphere and a central location

  • Large place with a focus on group gatherings, decent interiors, and good beer selection

  • The best pub/tavern in London with cozy ambiance, friendly service, fair prices, and great selection of pies and beer

  • Bustling pub with pretty decor, well-located, and worth another visit

The Barrowboy & Banker, SE1

4.23,323 reviews
6-8 Borough High St, London SE1 9QQ, United Kingdom

The Barrowboy & Banker, SE1 is a charming pub located in the heart of London. Known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, this establishment offers a range of services to its patrons. Customers can enjoy dine-in options, a variety of alcoholic beverages including beer, spirits, and wine, as well as delicious food served at the bar. The pub is dog-friendly and wheelchair-accessible to ensure all guests feel welcome.

With a rating of 4.2 stars out of 5 from 3323 reviews, it's clear that customers love The Barrowboy & Banker. Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

If you're looking for a quintessential English pub experience in London, look no further than The Barrowboy & Banker, SE1.

The Ship, London#10
Notable strengths

  • A customer praised the bar's atmosphere and the excitement of the downstairs crowd.

  • Another visitor was impressed by the pub's character, charm, and friendly locals.

  • One individual commended the wide selection of ales, the attentive staff, and the overall experience.

  • Personal reminiscence shared the nostalgia and memories attached to The Ship, making it a special place for reunions and gatherings.

The Ship

4.2253 reviews
3 Hart St, London EC3R 7NB, United Kingdom

The Ship pub in London is a hidden gem that captures the essence of British culture. Nestled in the heart of the city, this atmospheric venue is alive with regulars and gamblers eagerly anticipating their next win. The friendly bar staff add to the bustling excitement downstairs, while those seeking a quieter experience can enjoy darts upstairs. Although not mentioned in the reviews, The Ship offers a cozy atmosphere, casual vibes, and the option to bring outside food.

The Old Thameside Inn, London#11
Notable strengths

  • A nice pub next to the Thames with beautiful views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the business district.

  • Great selection of ales at the bar and a small outside drinking area with views of the Thames.

  • Friendly staff, good service, and delicious food, especially the pies.

  • Disappointing food quality in terms of portion size and temperature, but overall a nice vibe with friendly staff.

The Old Thameside Inn

4.24,293 reviews
Pickfords Wharf, Clink St, London SE1 9DG, United Kingdom

The Old Thameside Inn is a delightful pub located in London offering a range of services and features that cater to different preferences. With options for outdoor seating, dine-in, and a lively sport atmosphere, this establishment provides a unique and enjoyable experience for its patrons. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it a popular choice for groups.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Visitors can enjoy a variety of offerings including beer, cocktails, spirits, and a delightful selection of wine. With an accommodating and attentive staff, The Old Thameside Inn is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy quality food and drinks by the river.

The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen, London#12
Notable strengths

  • Big, tasty, and juicy portions

  • Relaxed and local atmosphere

  • Friendly and attentive service

  • Great value for money

The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen

4.1936 reviews
186 Tooley St, London SE1 2TZ, United Kingdom

The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen is a popular pub located in London. Known for its cozy and casual atmosphere, this pub offers a variety of services and features that make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Customers have raved about their experiences at The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen.

Whether you're looking to enjoy live performances, watch sports, or simply unwind with a few drinks, The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen has something for everyone. So why not stop by and experience it for yourself?

The Alexander Hay, London#13
Notable strengths

  • One customer shared a heartwarming story of surprising family members with a birthday celebration at The Alexander Hay, highlighting the staff's considerate and welcoming attitude.

  • Another reviewer praised the venue for its friendly service, varied menu options, and reasonable prices, even during the busy Christmas season.

  • A group of breast cancer survivors had a memorable gathering at The Alexander Hay, praising the staff for their exceptional service and making their afternoon truly special.

  • Customers have also noted the lively atmosphere, quick service, and delicious food, making it a go-to spot for gatherings and celebrations.

The Alexander Hay

4.1648 reviews
1, The Alexander Hay, 22 Battle Bridge Ln, London SE1 2HD, United Kingdom

The Alexander Hay pub is a popular spot in London known for its great cocktails and welcoming atmosphere. With a four-star rating and 648 reviews, customers have shared their positive experiences.

Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for drinks or a place to host a special event, The Alexander Hay offers a range of dining options and amenities to ensure a memorable experience. Next time you're in the area, be sure to check out this charming pub!

The Riverside, London#14
Notable strengths

  • Food is beautiful, delicious, and well-cooked.

  • Service is friendly, helpful, and excellent.

  • Atmosphere is great for both formal and informal gatherings.

The Riverside

4.01,930 reviews
House, 5 Saint George Wharf Hamilton, London SW8 2LE, United Kingdom

The Riverside is a cozy pub located in London that offers a range of services and features to its customers. From divine Pork Sunday roast to great bar food, this place has it all. The Riverside provides dine-in options and is accessible to wheelchair users. The atmosphere is casual, perfect for groups looking to enjoy some quality time.

With a solid rating of 4.0 based on 1930 reviews, The Riverside is a must-visit spot in London. Customers rave about the top-notch service, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on this gem in the heart of London!

The Shipwrights Arms, London#15
Notable strengths

  • A very nice decorated pub with the nicest staff and a good selection of drinks.

  • Outstandingly friendly staff, great outdoor design, and likely to return due to the friendly approach.

  • A busy but well-staffed pub near London Bridge station, with a good range of beers.

  • Very friendly staff, good music, and a standard set of beers and cider available.

The Shipwrights Arms

3.82,558 reviews
88 Tooley St, London SE1 2TF, United Kingdom

The Shipwrights Arms is a beloved Pub located in the heart of London. With a rating of 3.8, it promises a memorable experience to all its visitors. The pub offers a variety of services and features, such as Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and an Accessible entrance for wheelchair users. Patrons can enjoy a selection of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Food, and more.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

The main points in one table

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1The Raven Tower Bridge 4.5557
#2Prospect of Whitby 4.44,549
#3The Ship 4.41,117
#4Tamesis Dock 4.32,287
#5Anchor Bankside 4.29,101
#6Founder's Arms 4.27,122
#7The Horniman at Hays 4.25,891
#8The Pommelers Rest 4.23,843
#9The Barrowboy & Banker, SE1 4.23,323
#10The Ship 4.2253
#11The Old Thameside Inn 4.24,293
#12The Two Bridges Ale House & Kitchen 4.1936
#13The Alexander Hay 4.1648
#14The Riverside 4.01,930
#15The Shipwrights Arms 3.82,558

Do you manage a business?

Add or manage my business

Map of London Riverside Pubs

Discover the charm and character of London's riverside pubs with this comprehensive map showcasing the best watering holes along the Thames. From historic taverns to modern gastropubs, each establishment offers stunning views and a wide selection of drinks to enjoy by the water's edge. Raise a glass and immerse yourself in the vibrant pub culture of London. View Ranking

Choosing london riverside pubs in London

  1. Scenic views of the River Thames.
  2. Outdoor seating for sunny days.
  3. Authentic pub atmosphere.
  4. Wide selection of drinks and food.

Frequent questions

Best Riverside Pubs in London

If you're looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a pint while watching the river flow by, London has plenty of options. Some of the best riverside pubs in the city include The Grapes in Limehouse, The Mayflower in Rotherhithe, and The Dove in Hammersmith. These historic pubs offer stunning views of the river, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a drink with friends or a romantic riverside meal, these pubs have something for everyone. Don't forget to check out the outdoor seating areas at these pubs, where you can enjoy your drink while soaking up the atmosphere of the Thames.

Are Riverside Pubs in London Child-Friendly?

Many of the riverside pubs in London are child-friendly, welcoming families with open arms. Most of these pubs have children's menus and offer high chairs for little ones. Some of the best child-friendly riverside pubs include The Ship in Wandsworth, The Cutty Sark in Greenwich, and The Waterfront in Battersea. These pubs often have outdoor seating areas where children can play while parents enjoy a drink, making them the perfect destination for a family day out.

Can I Make Reservations at Riverside Pubs in London?

While some riverside pubs in London accept reservations, many operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This is especially true during busy times, such as weekends and holidays. It's recommended to call ahead if you're planning to visit a specific riverside pub at a particular time, especially if you're in a larger group. Some pubs may also have private event spaces that can be reserved for special occasions.

What is the Atmosphere Like at London Riverside Pubs?

The atmosphere at London riverside pubs can vary from cozy and traditional to lively and modern. Some pubs have a laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding after a long day, while others are known for their vibrant music and events. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a pint or a buzzing riverside venue to dance the night away, there's a pub in London that's perfect for you. Take a stroll along the river and explore the different atmospheres on offer.

More to compare

The 16 Best West London PubsThe 11 Best Hip Hop Nightclubs in LondonThe 14 Best London Gay Bars