Ah, the River Thames! It’s not just a beautiful landmark in the heart of London; it’s also the perfect backdrop for a cheeky pint or a fancy cocktail. Strolling along its banks, you’ll stumble upon some of the best bars and pubs that London has to offer. From historic pubs oozing with character to sleek, modern bars with stunning views, there’s a riverside spot for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a cosy evening snuggled in a corner booth or a glamorous night out under the stars, these Thames-side haunts are where London’s heart beats the loudest. So, grab your mates and let’s dive into the vibrant riverside bar scene, where the drinks are as refreshing as the views!
Tamesis Dock
Address: Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7TY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tamesis Dock is a unique floating venue located between Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridge, a short walk from various rail and tube stations. This converted 1930s Dutch barge is moored on the bank of the Thames and provides stunning views of the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Battersea Power Station.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at Tamesis Dock is eclectic and vibrant, combining the charm of a traditional pub with the novelty of being afloat on the Thames. Its interior is described as “hella quirky and extremely cosy,” especially the lower deck, while the top deck offers a refreshing outdoor space ideal for summer days. The venue regularly hosts live music and events, adding to its lively and festive spirit.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music: Tamesis Dock is celebrated for its diverse range of live music performances and events. It has hosted bands such as Bastille and Local Natives, making it a significant spot in London’s music scene.
- Events: Besides regular gigs, the venue is available for private hire, offering spaces like the lower deck with its high ceilings and fantastic views, ideal for events up to 1am.
- Food & Drink: The floating pub prides itself on its extensive menu, featuring boat-made and hand-stretched pizzas, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Besides pizzas, there’s a variety of snacks like garlic bread, samosas, and spiced chicken wings. The bar offers a rotating selection of draft beers and ciders, alongside a wide range of wines, spirits, and creatively named ‘docktails’.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Tamesis Dock welcomes guests every day of the week, with its operating hours extending from 12:00 pm to 1:00 am.
Tattershall Castle
Address: Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2HR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tattershall Castle is uniquely situated on a boat moored at the Victoria Embankment, opposite the London Eye, providing an exceptional view of the Thames and surrounding landmarks.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue offers a distinctive atmosphere that combines the charm of a traditional pub with the unique setting of being on a boat. It boasts a vibrant and friendly environment with splendid views, especially of the Houses of Parliament.
What’s On Offer
- Hearty Grub & Sunday Roasts: Tattershall Castle provides all the comforts of a classic pub, including a selection of hearty meals and Sunday roasts, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
- Entertainment: The venue hosts monthly jazz sessions and comedy nights, offering guests entertainment alongside their meals and drinks, enhancing the overall experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours are extensive, including late nights on Fridays and Saturdays until 2:00 AM, and more standard closing times of 11:00 PM on other days.
For a unique dining and entertainment experience on the River Thames, Tattershall Castle offers a compelling choice with its mix of traditional pub offerings, entertainment, and stunning views.
The Bell & Crown
Address: 11-13 Thames Rd, Chiswick, London, W4 3PL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bell & Crown is located in the scenic area of Chiswick, London, right on the banks of the Thames. This provides a serene and picturesque setting that’s perfect for a relaxing visit.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue offers the charm of a country pub blended with the convenience of a London location. Its riverside setting contributes to a cosy and traditional atmosphere, where guests can enjoy superb food, fresh real ales, and friendly service in a genuinely inviting environment.
What’s On Offer
- Refined Pub Classics & Seasonal Menu: The kitchen at The Bell & Crown is known for its high standard of delicious pub food, featuring a seasonal menu that includes traditional family favorites alongside daily specials with an international twist. This ensures that every visit can offer something new and exciting to try.
- Private Events & Riverside Celebrations: Apart from casual dining, The Bell & Crown caters to private events, offering a beautiful riverside location for celebrations such as wedding receptions and birthday parties. The venue’s setting and services make it an ideal choice for memorable events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours are as follows: Monday from 12:00 – 23:00, Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 – 23:00, and Sunday from 09:00 – 22:30. Food service times are slightly different, with food being served until 21:00 from Monday to Saturday and until 20:00 on Sunday.
The Bell & Crown combines the ease of access of a London pub with the unique charm of a riverside country venue, making it a must-visit for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and company in a picturesque setting.
Founder’s Arms
Address: 52 Hopton St, London, SE1 9JH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Founder’s Arms is situated on the South Bank of the Thames, a short distance from the Tate Modern and just two minutes from the Millennium Bridge, often referred to as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ by fans. This location places it in the heart of Central London, nestled between notable attractions and offering easy access via nearby Waterloo, Blackfriars, and Southwark stations.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue boasts a contemporary, glass-fronted pub aesthetic with a large patio that offers unrivalled views over the Thames, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the city skyline. The atmosphere is conducive to both impressing a date and relaxing with friends, supported by the availability of blankets and heaters to ensure comfort on the terrace throughout the year.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Fare & Craft Beers: The Founder’s Arms prides itself on serving delicious, seasonal British food alongside a phenomenal selection of beers and wines. Their menu is packed with fresh, seasonal British ingredients, curated by their Head Chef to cater to a range of dining preferences, from intimate gatherings to larger functions.
- Stunning Riverside Terrace & Events: One of the key features of the Founder’s Arms is its riverside terrace, which allows guests to enjoy mouth-watering dishes and a variety of drinks while soaking in the beautiful views of the river and city. The venue is also known for hosting memorable events, including Sunday roasts that are a perfect match for their spicy Bloody Marys, and offering a great range of local gins and wines that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
The Old Thameside Inn
Address: Pickfords Wharf, Clink St, London, SE1 9DG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Thameside Inn is situated on Pickfords Wharf along the historic Clink Street in London. It is nestled amongst significant landmarks, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century, once serving as an old spice warehouse. The area is famous for its connection to the original Clink Prison and the proximity to the replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship, The Golden Hind, which adds a unique historical ambiance to the venue.
- What’s the Vibe? With its location right next to the River Thames, The Old Thameside Inn offers picturesque views, especially during summer with its outdoor seating. Inside, you’ll find a traditional British pub atmosphere, complete with comfy armchair seating, large Turkish rugs, pub-style wooden furniture, and wooden-framed photos and mirrors. This venue is known for creating a very British pub feel, making it ideal for a casual drink with friends, a family meal, or a relaxing drink after work.
What’s On Offer
- Mouth-watering British Pub Food & Specialty Pies: The menu is a celebration of British culinary tradition, featuring hearty pub food classics, hand-crafted specialty pies like Chicken and Truffled Oyster Mushroom Pie and British Steak & Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie. For those with a sweet tooth, the traditional Bramley Apple & Blackberry Crumble is a must-try. This is complemented by an extensive selection of drinks including cask ales, fine wines, and an assortment of whisky and gin.
- A Wide Selection of Ales & Spirits: Ale enthusiasts will appreciate the pub’s extensive list of unrivalled and award-winning ales. Even if ale isn’t your preference, The Old Thameside Inn offers a well-stocked bar filled with wines and spirits to quench any thirst. The pub’s setting, combined with its drink selection, provides a perfect backdrop for socialising and enjoying the views of the Thames.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Monday to Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Friday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 10:30 pm.
This venue is a quintessential example of a traditional British pub, offering a mix of history, hearty food, and a wide selection of drinks, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Thames River. Whether you’re a Londoner or a visitor, The Old Thameside Inn promises a memorable experience.
Ready to Visit?
London’s River Thames is not just a scenic delight; it’s the vibrant heart of the city’s social scene, lined with an array of pubs and bars that cater to every taste. Among them, Tamesis Dock stands out for its unique floating charm, offering stunning views of iconic landmarks along with a quirky and cosy atmosphere. For those who prefer a blend of traditional pub vibes with a unique twist, The Bell & Crown in Chiswick offers a serene riverside setting perfect for enjoying classic pub fare. These venues exemplify the diverse and inviting nature of London’s riverside hospitality, ensuring memorable experiences whether you’re in for a relaxed pint or an evening of lively entertainment.
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Why not embark on a riverside adventure and discover the unique charm of London’s Thames-side bars? Visit places like Tamesis Dock or The Bell & Crown for an unforgettable experience. Don’t keep this gem all to yourself; share this article with friends and encourage them to explore with you. Once you’ve experienced the warmth and vibrancy of these spots, share your review and spread the word about your new favourite riverside haunts.