Heading out in Wapping and looking for the perfect spot to grab a pint or shake up your evening with a cocktail? You’re in luck! Right by the Wapping Overground, an array of bars and pubs await, ready to quench your thirst and kick-start your night. From cosy, historic pubs oozing with charm to trendy bars serving up innovative concoctions, Wapping’s nightlife scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. Whether you’re after a quiet evening sipping ale by the river or a lively night out with mates, Wapping’s got you covered. So, why not dive into the heart of this historic London area and discover the best watering holes it has to offer? Cheers to unforgettable nights in Wapping
The Captain Kidd
Address: 108 Wapping High St, London, E1W 2NE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Captain Kidd is a historic pub situated in the heart of London’s Wapping district. It’s located right on the scenic banks of the River Thames, offering visitors a mix of rich history with modern comfort. The venue is easily accessible and perfect for those looking to enjoy London’s maritime history and contemporary vibes.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue combines the charm of a traditional British pub with the unique backdrop of the River Thames. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for casual drinks, meals, or celebrations. The Captain Kidd’s preserved historic function rooms add a touch of elegance and nostalgia, perfect for any gathering.
What’s On Offer
- Menu Highlights: The Captain Kidd takes pride in serving delicious pub classics alongside lighter dishes, all crafted with passion by their chefs. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a simple snack, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
- Beverage Selection: Specialising in beers brewed by Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery in Tadcaster, Yorkshire, The Captain Kidd offers a variety of authentic, natural ingredient beers served from oak casks. Additionally, the pub boasts a selection of house wines and spirits that are sure to impress even the most discerning guests.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday-Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Kitchen Times:
- Monday-Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The Prospect of Whitby
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, London, E1W 3SH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Prospect of Whitby is nestled along the historic and scenic Wapping Wall in London. Esteemed as London’s oldest riverside pub, it boasts a rich history dating back to 1520. The pub has witnessed centuries of change, from serving sailors and smugglers to welcoming famous personalities like Charles Dickens and Samuel Pepys.
- What’s the Vibe? Stepping into The Prospect of Whitby is like stepping back in time. With its original flagstone floors, dark, atmospheric rooms, and a pewter-topped bar, the venue exudes an old-world charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Its riverside location offers spectacular views of the River Thames, especially from its beer garden and first-floor balcony, providing a serene backdrop that contrasts with the pub’s bustling interior.
What’s On Offer
- Sunday Roast: One of the standout offerings is the traditional Sunday Roast. Patrons can indulge in 28-day aged sirloin of beef, roasted half chicken, or nut roast wellington, celebrating the end of the week in true British style.
- Beers & Classic Cocktails: The Prospect of Whitby takes pride in its beverage selection, offering premium beers like Level Head Session IPA or Flint Eye Dry Hopped Lager. The pub also serves classic cocktails with a twist, such as the refreshing Blackberry Tom Collins, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub welcomes visitors seven days a week, with opening hours extending from midday to 11 pm most days, and until 10 pm on Sundays. It serves its delicious pub food throughout the week, with serving hours generally running from midday to 9 pm.
The Prospect of Whitby not only serves as a cosy spot for a pint or a hearty meal but also stands as a living museum, reflecting London’s rich maritime history and the evolution of British pub culture. Its unique combination of historical ambiance, stunning views, and quality offerings make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
Wapping Tavern
Address: 78-80 Wapping Ln, London, E1W 2RT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Wapping Tavern is an independently run neighbourhood pub, located in the heart of Wapping, London. It resides in an old spice factory with many original features lovingly restored, offering a rich historical backdrop for visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, buzzing with activity. It attracts a younger crowd, especially on weekends, and is a vibrant spot to watch live sports, enjoy pub games, or simply relax. With exposed beams and ironwork, the building’s architecture adds to its charming ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Cocktails: Wapping Tavern boasts a wide selection of international and craft beers, with 28 different beers on tap. It also offers a carefully curated wine list and a variety of cocktails.
- Culinary Delights: The food menu includes American-style pizzas made with 48-hour-proofed sourdough, a modern European gastro pub menu for lunch and dinner, and a celebrated Sunday roast. The offering suits both carnivores and herbivores, with a commitment to fresh, locally sourced produce.
- Games & Entertainment: The basement houses a games room with pool, shuffleboard, table tennis, foosball, and arcade games, making it a great spot for entertainment. There are also regular events such as live sports screenings on 17 TVs and projectors, quiz nights every Wednesday, and live music on Fridays. Additionally, the venue is dog-friendly, inviting patrons to bring along their furry friends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 5 – 11pm
- Tuesday – Thursday: 12 – 11pm
- Friday – Saturday: 12pm – 12am
- Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
Wapping Tavern offers a unique blend of historical ambiance, diverse culinary offerings, and a wide array of entertainment options, making it a must-visit destination in London’s Wapping area.
Town of Ramsgate
Address: 62 Wapping High St, London, E1W 2PN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Town of Ramsgate Pub is situated in the historic heart of East London, in the ancient hamlet of Wapping, next to the famed Wapping Old Stairs. It boasts a picturesque location on the river Thames, making it a landmark pub with a story that stretches back to 1545.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that combines traditional British pub charm with family-run hospitality. Its riverside terrace provides a cosy spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in views of the Thames, complemented by the pub’s rich history and a selection of homemade classics.
What’s On Offer
- Historic Charm & Events: The Town of Ramsgate not only carries centuries of history, including tales of Judge Jeffreys and the famous Wapping Old Stairs, but also hosts weekly events such as their popular Sunday Carvery and Quiz Nights, blending tradition with community spirit.
- Culinary Delights & Beverages: With a kitchen open for lunch and dinner, the pub offers a variety of dishes, from pub classics like beer-battered fish & chips to unique offerings such as Pinsa Romana. Their extensive selection of beer, wine, and spirits ensures there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open daily, Monday to Saturday from 12 noon to 11 pm, and Sunday from 12 noon to 10:30 pm. The kitchen operates from 12 noon to 4 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm. Booking is highly recommended, especially for dining.
Turner’s Old Star
Address: 14 Watts Street, Wapping, London, E1W 2QG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Turner’s Old Star is nestled in Wapping, a stone’s throw from the iconic riverside, yet distinctively set a little inland, away from the tourist paths. This positioning lends it a charm of being a hidden gem within the bustling city of London.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is an unreformed backstreet boozer, exuding a traditional and welcoming atmosphere. It is cherished for its wooden bar, glass panels, and a sense of history that permeates its walls. The venue hosts a local community crowd, yet remains open and inviting to newcomers, offering an authentic London pub experience with quizzes, karaoke, and community events.
What’s On Offer
- Cask Ales: Turner’s Old Star takes pride in its ‘Cask Marque’ certification, ensuring that its cask ales, including London Pride and Doom Bar, are consistently of high quality. This certification is a testament to their commitment to serving a great pint every time.
- History & Heritage: The pub has a rich history, with connections to Britain’s greatest artist, JMW Turner, who is said to have inherited cottages on this site and converted them into a pub. Whether or not these tales are strictly accurate, the legend adds a layer of intrigue and historical depth to the pub’s atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Opening hours vary across the week, generally from 2:00 or 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm on weekdays, with extended hours until late on weekends. Specific times are: Monday to Thursday from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Friday from 2:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm.
Turner’s Old Star remains a cherished spot within London’s pub scene, offering a blend of traditional pub fare, a slice of history, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s a venue that promises an authentic British pub experience.
Ready to Visit?
Exploring Wapping’s dynamic nightlife is a journey through cosy historic pubs and trendy bars, each offering a unique slice of London’s heritage alongside a contemporary twist. Notably, The Captain Kidd and The Prospect of Whitby stand out with their picturesque riverside locations, serving up a range of delicious traditional dishes and a selection of finely brewed beers and innovative cocktails. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a quiet ale by the Thames or seeking a lively evening out with friends, Wapping welcomes you with open arms and a drink to match every taste.
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Embark on an unforgettable night out in Wapping by visiting one of its distinguished bars. Delight in the historic charm of The Captain Kidd or the timeless allure of The Prospect of Whitby. Share this article with your friends and let them in on Wapping’s best-kept secrets. Once you’ve experienced what these iconic spots have to offer, don’t forget to share your review and spread the word about your favourite watering hole. Cheers to memorable nights and new discoveries in Wapping!