Looking for a good time near Rotherhithe Station? You’re in luck! This riverside spot boasts a great selection of cosy pubs and lively bars, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether you’re after a traditional pint with a view of the Thames or something a bit more modern, the local haunts around here have got you covered. So, grab a drink, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the charm of Rotherhithe’s hidden gems!
The Mayflower
Address: 117 Rotherhithe Street, London, SE16 4NF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Mayflower is tucked away in the historic area of Rotherhithe, London, along a charming cobbled street right by the Thames. It’s just a short walk from Rotherhithe Overground station, making it convenient yet pleasantly removed from the usual tourist crowds.
- What’s the Vibe? Stepping into The Mayflower feels like travelling back in time. Dating back to 1620, it boasts a rich, historical atmosphere with low-beamed ceilings, brick walls, and cosy candlelit tables. The nautical theme, complete with shipping artefacts and old maps, enhances the sense of stepping into a living museum. Its riverside location offers beautiful views from the jetty, making it the perfect spot to relax with a drink and enjoy the river’s gentle sounds.
What’s On Offer
- British Classics & Ales: The Mayflower is known for its hearty British menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include their fish and chips, often considered some of the best in London. The pub also offers a fine selection of traditional ales and craft beers, alongside local gins and wines.
- Pie and a Pint on Wednesdays: Every Wednesday, the pub serves up a special offer of a delicious pie paired with a pint for just £18, providing a great midweek treat. Fridays bring another treat with their “Fishy Friday” deal, offering two portions of fish and chips for £25.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Mayflower is open daily from 12:00 to 23:00, though it closes slightly earlier at 22:00 on Sundays.
The Ship
Address: 39-47 Saint Marychurch St, London, SE16 4JE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship is located in Rotherhithe, South East London, nestled on a quiet, historic street close to the River Thames.
- What’s the Vibe? This cosy, local pub offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. It features a charming beer garden at the rear, ideal for a leisurely afternoon, and outdoor seating at the front for those who enjoy people-watching with their pint.
What’s On Offer
- Classic Pub Fare: The Ship serves a great selection of classic pub food, including favourites like fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts. The kitchen is open daily but has shorter hours on Sundays.
- Real Ale & Drinks Selection: The pub offers a varied drinks menu with an excellent selection of real ales, beers, and ciders. It’s an ideal spot for ale lovers seeking to enjoy a quality pint in a relaxed setting.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open Monday to Thursday from 12:00 to 23:00, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 to midnight, and Sunday from 12:00 to 23:00.
The Brunel
Address: 47 Swan Road, Rotherhithe, SE16 4JN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Brunel is located in the heart of Rotherhithe, a historic and charming area along the River Thames in southeast London.
- What’s the Vibe? A quintessential British pub with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. The Brunel is a favourite for both locals and visitors, known for its friendly service and community spirit.
What’s On Offer
- Drinks Galore: The Brunel offers a wide selection of drinks, including real ales, ciders, wines, and seasonal cocktails, along with a variety of low and no-alcohol options.
- Sports Enthusiasts’ Haven: The pub is a popular spot for sports fans, featuring live screenings of major football matches and other sports on Sky and Amazon Prime.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Brunel is open from 12:00 PM to 1:30 AM.
The Ship & Whale
Address: 2 Gulliver Street, Rotherhithe, SE16 7LT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked away in the historic dockside area of Rotherhithe, The Ship & Whale offers a cosy escape near the river Thames. The pub is a charming relic nestled amongst the old shipyards, reflecting the maritime history of the area, which was once a bustling hub for shipbuilding.
- What’s the Vibe? With its roots dating back to the 18th century, the pub exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, blending traditional charm with modern comforts. The interior features old photographs, bringing the local history to life, while the pub itself offers a relaxed and friendly vibe. Its close ties to Rotherhithe’s rich past make it an appealing spot for history lovers as well as locals seeking a casual pint.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Menu: The Ship & Whale offers hearty British classics, including crowd favourites like fish & chips and sausages with mash. A standout is their Sunday roast, complete with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Outdoor Seating: The pub boasts a pleasant beer garden, perfect for enjoying the warmer months.
- Quizzes: Additionally, it regularly hosts pub quizzes, creating a lively yet laid-back environment ideal for a casual night out with friends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 17:00 – 23:00
- Friday: 17:00 – 00:00
- Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00
The Midnight Apothecary
Address: Railway Avenue, Rotherhithe, SE16 4LF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Midnight Apothecary is located atop the Brunel Museum, nestled in the historic neighbourhood of Rotherhithe. It sits in the rooftop garden above the Thames Tunnel Shaft, an iconic piece of Victorian engineering. Rotherhithe Overground Station is a short walk away, making the venue accessible yet tucked away from the busier parts of London.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Midnight Apothecary is magical and intimate. The venue transforms into a lush, secret garden filled with herbs, flowers, and vegetables, all used to craft seasonal cocktails. With a roaring campfire, cosy seating, and a beautiful garden surrounding you, it feels like a hidden oasis in the city — perfect for an evening with friends or a romantic night out. The tranquil surroundings and botanical theme set a calming yet sociable tone.
What’s On Offer
- Botanical Cocktails: The venue is renowned for its innovative, seasonal cocktails. These are made with ingredients either grown in the garden itself or foraged locally. Expect creative mixes featuring wild herbs, flowers, and locally sourced spirits such as Bermondsey’s Hiver Honey Beer and Jensen’s gin. The menu evolves with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try
- Campfires and Marshmallows: A standout feature of The Midnight Apothecary is the campfire experience. As the sun sets, guests can toast marshmallows over the fire, adding a nostalgic and cosy touch to the evening. It’s a small but delightful gesture that enhances the venue’s unique atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Midnight Apothecary is open on Friday and Saturday evenings from mid-April through October. There are two sittings each evening: the early session from 5:00 PM to 7:15 PM and the later session from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM. Booking is essential, especially during peak summer months.
Ready to Visit?
Rotherhithe offers a charming riverside escape filled with historic pubs and unique bars, perfect for unwinding by the Thames. From the cosy, time-honoured atmosphere of The Mayflower, a pub steeped in nautical history, to the welcoming, community feel of The Ship, there’s a spot for every type of evening out. Whether you’re sipping a classic ale or indulging in a hearty British dish, the pubs here reflect the area’s rich maritime heritage and offer a relaxed retreat from the bustle of the city.
Share the Love
Why not visit one of Rotherhithe’s hidden gems like The Mayflower for a riverside pint or The Ship for a cosy meal? Share this article with friends who love a good pub, and don’t forget to leave a review once you’ve visited!