Nothing beats British pub food, from hearty roast dinners to traditional pub classics. Add a scenic view into the mix, and things get even better.
Filled with glistening lakes, gushing rivers and glorious coastline, the South West is home to some of the best waterside pubs in England. So, next time you fancy some great British cuisine, why not hop on a train and head to one of these waterside pubs?
The best waterside pubs on the River Thames
Let’s face it, if an eatery has a view of the Thames, it instantly becomes more desirable. Snap some pictures or simply watch the world go by as you tuck into your meal at these Thames-view pubs.
Set in a historic, fourteenth-century public house, The City Barge is the perfect all-rounder. Not only does the outdoor beer garden (heated in the winter) offer excellent views of the River Thames, but there are also plenty of TV screens to watch live sports, making it the ideal pub for sports fans.
Price range: ££
How to get there: The City Barge is an 11-minute walk from Kew Bridge.
Canbury Gardens, Lower Ham Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT2 5AU
If you’re looking for a charming, family-friendly pub, then head to The Boaters Inn. With a balcony and a beer garden, you won’t find a better place to enjoy views of the Thames. Younger family members will enjoy the kids’ menu and the range of activities including colouring books and games.
Price range: ££
How to get there: From Kingston station, The Boaters Inn is a 13-minute walk away.
Built back in 1662 before acquiring a makeover in the late 1800s, White Hart Barnes isn’t short of charm. This riverside pub has lots to offer, from classic Sunday roasts to the very best beers and wines. While it may be just a stone’s throw from the bustling city, you can enjoy a quaint countryside atmosphere at White Hart Barnes.
Price range: ££
How to get there: Barnes Bridge station is just a three-minute stroll from White Hart Barnes.
11-13 Thames Rd, Strand-on-the-Green, London W4 3PL
Escape the bustle of London city life and head to The Bell & Crown, set right on the bank of the River Thames. Unlike other riverside pubs that offer a beer garden, you can enjoy the views from the comfort of a conservatory – perfect for staying warm in the wintertime. Plus, there’s a real log fire that’s guaranteed to get you feeling cosy.
Price range: ££
How to get there: To get to The Bell and Crown, catch the train to Kew Bridge and then walk for around seven minutes.
Built in 1520, Prospect of Whitby is the UK’s oldest riverside tavern, and it certainly has character. Admire views of the Thames from the pretty pub garden, or settle next to a TV to enjoy the sports at this family-friendly pub. Serving up all the pub classics, there’s no chance of anyone leaving hungry.
Price range: ££
How to get there: From London Waterloo, it’s easy to get to Prospect of Whitby by tube. First, take the eastbound Jubilee line to Canada Water, then switch to the Overground towards Highbury and Islington and alight at Wapping. From there, the pub is a six-minute walk away.
Warm and welcoming, The Blue Anchor is a riverside pub with over 300 years of history. The pub’s outdoor area is adorned with picnic benches perfect for the summer months, while in the wintertime, the indoor ‘River Room’ offers lovely views and a cosy open fire.
Price range: ££
How to get there: The Blue Anchor is a short bus ride from Barnes station. Catch the 33 towards Barnes, alight at Lonsdale Road, then walk for around nine minutes.
The best riverside pubs in the South West
There’s nothing better than a pub with a riverside view – here are some of the best in the South West.
Set off the bank of the River Stour, Riverside Inn is one of Bournemouth’s most beautiful dining spots. Take a seat in the picture-perfect beer garden and feast on the delicious pub food on offer, or simply enjoy a couple of drinks overlooking the river. Serving British favourites, from grilled meats to pasta, there’s a dish for everyone.
Price range: ££
How to get there: From Christchurch station, Riverside Inn is a 15-minute walk away.
Located in the beautiful Saxon town of Wareham, The Old Granary Pub & Restaurant is just the spot for some outdoor dining. The views of the River Frome are best enjoyed from the pub’s rooftop dining area, although indoor dining is just as enjoyable thanks to the rustic, homely interior.
Price range: ££
How to get there: It’s a 15-minute walk from Wareham station to The Old Granary Pub & Restaurant.
Home-style cooked food, a great selection of drinks and views of the River Exe – what more could you ask for? Located in Exeter, The Port Royal has a real community feel. Children and dogs are welcome, too, so everyone can come along! Adorned with fairy lights, the outdoor terrace offers amazing river views for the whole family to enjoy.
Price range: ££
How to get there: It’s a 19-minute walk from Exeter Central to The Port Royal, or you can catch the S bus towards Wonford and get off at Church.
If you prefer a pub to feel like a home away from home, then you’ll love The Weyside. Located in Guildford on the banks of the River Wey, this cosy pub resembles a dream living room, complete with armchairs,
wooden beams and a terrace offering incredible views.
Price range: ££
How to get there: From Guildford, it takes around 10 minutes to walk to The Weyside.
Dating back to 1901, The Boathouse has a reputation as one of the best pubs in Salisbury. With a waterside patio offering views over the River Avon, it’s easy to see why this pub has won over so many hearts. Dining here is relaxed, so feel free to bring your dogs along!
Price range: ££
How to get there: It’s an 11-minute walk from Salisbury station to The Boathouse.
Set on the banks of the River Itchen, The Bishop on the Bridge is the place to go for a delicious meal with a view. Choose from a menu full of freshly prepared pub classics, from slow-braised pork belly to traditional fish and chips, and enjoy your meal out on the deck overlooking the river.
Price range: ££
How to get there: From Winchester station, enjoy a 16-minute stroll through Winnall Moors Nature Reserve to reach The Bishop on the Bridge.
The best lakeside pubs in the South West
If you’re after serenity and ambience, visit a pub with lake views. Here are a couple of our favourites.
Located in the heart of idyllic Godalming, The Inn on the Lake is the perfect place to visit with family, friends or your partner. In the summer, enjoy your meal from the inn’s picturesque beer garden. When the colder seasons approach, the pub’s outdoor space sees the addition of cosy igloos to keep you warm whatever the weather. If you’re looking for a place to stay, then why not check into a room above the restaurant?
Price range: ££
How to get there: Catch the train to Godalming station, then walk for 13 minutes to reach The Inn on the Lake.
With its stunning lakefront setting and quirky underwater-inspired décor, Kingfisher on The Quay is well worth a visit. Tuck into a Sunday roast with the family, or share a selection of tapas-style dishes with your other half as you take in the lake views. The pub caters to a variety of dietary requirements, offering gluten-free dishes and a specialist children’s menu, so there’s something for everyone.
Price range: ££
How to get there: Getting from Farnborough station to Kingfisher on The Quay takes around 17 minutes on foot.
With many great waterside pubs to visit across the South West, why not plan your journey today? Search our ticket types to find the right train tickets for your trip. Plus, you can make fantastic savings by taking advantage of Railcards and when you travel in a group.
Discover the best trips for solo travellers in South West England. From beaches and city breaks to top locations for history buffs, SWR has your trip covered.
