When the weather's warm and you're feeling thirsty, nothing quite beats a good pint outdoors. Fortunately in London, there are loads of great pubs on the river, perfect for a spot of al fresco drinking. These are our top 6 London pubs on the river.
1. The Crabtree
A charming Victorian haunt, located on the waterfront between Hammersmith and Putney bridges. This pub boasts a leafy apple orchard garden, perfect for outdoor bevvies, along with a BBQserving up tasty grub between spring and autumn.
Where: Rainville Road, London W6 9HA
Website: thecrabtreew6.co.uk
2. The Black Lion
Not a million miles from The Crabtree is this iconic country pub, known for its great grub and vintage skittle alley. Popular with its local Hammersmith residents, its generous riverside garden hosts various functions throughout the year, including Bonfire Night. Choose from a selection of tapas dishes to accompany your pint.
Where: 2 S Black Lion Lane, Hammersmith, London W6 9TJ
Website: www.blacklion.london
3. The Dove
Also in Hammersmith lies a Fuller’s pub with an excellent selection of ales and a rich history. The Dove’s riverside terrace overlooks the Thames and provides fine views of local houseboats. Charles II is rumoured to have wined and dined his mistress, Nell Gynne, here. The pub is even said to feature in A.P. Herbert’s famous novel, The Water Gypsies.
Where: 19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, London W6 9TA
Website: dovehammersmith.co.uk
4. The Boathouse
The name alone should tell you everything you need to know about this pub’s waterside worth. Located in East Putney, it’s part of a trendy wharf development and boasts an excellent riverview restaurant, suitable for small and large groups alike. Enjoy a juicy steak in the sun as you watch the world go by.
Where: 32 Brewhouse Lane, London SW15 2JX
Website: boathouseputney.co.uk
5. The Bulls Head
A renowned jazz pub, with a string of famous guests to its name, The Bulls Head is the connoisseur’s choice for drinking on the river. It offers private dining, and a charming event space, ideal for special occasions. The ground floor restaurant is particularly special, and can be hired for birthdays, work meetings and wedding receptions.
Where: 373 Lonsdale Road, Barnes, London SW13 9PY
Website thebullsheadbarnes.com
6. The Ship
Say hello to The Ship: a quintessentially English pub in Mortlake with a great vibe and a bustling beer garden. Built in 1781, it's wonderful on warm days, and puts on a terrific party each year for the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race. In fact, the pub is located right on the finish line to the race.
Where: 41 Jews Row, Wandsworth, London SW18 1TB
Website: theship.co.uk
