This hugely popular inn is set on the banks of the Thames by Hammersmith Bridge and prides itself upon its status as one of the oldest pubs in London.

The Venue
The Blue Anchor is a traditional-looking inn from the outside. Set just beside Hammersmith Bridge, it overlooks the river Thames. It has a navy blue and white nautical theme and light blue picnic benches are lined up in front of the pub. Inside, the pub has a very traditional appearance, with aging oak walls, leather upholstered seating and a small bar kitted out with old ale pumps. Oars, flags and sailing paraphernalia adorn the walls, and towards the rear is an old snug area for a quieter drink by the fireplace. It has an authentic historical feel, given that the Blue Anchor has been serving drinks since the 1700s. An upstairs seating area takes a more modern approach than the historic inn downstairs. A deep purple and gold colour scheme is used on the walls, and big glass doors give the dining area a light and spacious feeling.

The Atmosphere
Filling up the small premises are drinkers of every generation, adding to the traditional, family feeling of the inn. It is very much a community pub – the punters are friendly and welcoming, as are the bar staff. Consequently, Blue Anchor is a fun pub that is full of character, ideal for a quiet drink in the corner, or a lively pint out the front. Do expect a queue at the bar of an evening, and a struggle for seating too. This stretch of the Thames is on the annual Boat Race course so expect it to be heaving come race day. There are great pubs that can be found further up along the banks of the river too, which makes it ideal for boozy days by the river.

The Food
Gigantic plates of food are served up at the Blue Anchor, with lovely looking garnishes of salad on the side. The menu borders gastro pub territory, and light snacks come in the form of a one-pint tankard of shell-on prawns (£6.25) and grilled goat’s cheese on a bed of mixed salad and roasted peppers (£7.95). However, pub grub standards are maintained with spicy buffalo wings (£4.95) and nachos (£7.95) to share. The menu of main courses is also very traditional, but served with some stylish touches, like sausage and mash (£8.50) with red wine and baby onion sauce, or Thai red chicken curry (£7.95), making for a pleasant break from the usual korma.

The Drink
Given the history and the Thames-side location of this venue, it comes as little surprise that the price of a pint is quite dear. But it is value for money, given the crisp taste of the lager and ales on tap at Blue Anchor, something that's earned the pub Casque Marque accreditation. The cheapest lager is a pint of Fosters (£3.80), which is best avoided. It is joined by Staropramen, Stella, Becks and Pilsner too. There are also four ales on draught (starting at £3.50), including the pubs very own Blue Anchor ale. The bar at Blue Anchor is impressively stocked and caters particularly well for the older male clients it attracts. The sight of several whiskies is a case in point.

A cracking list of old and new world wines will appeal to most tastes and match the tasty pub grub dished up. A small glass of wine will cost between £3.60 and £5.50, and considering the good quality, bottles of wine are relatively cheap. For special occasions there are even some very respectable sparkling wines and champagnes kept on ice, including Verve Clicquot Yellow Label (£55).

The Last Word
With its well-kept drinks on tap and chilled ambience, it is obvious why this traditional, historic pub has stood the test of time. Add views of the Thames and you’ve got a lovely spot to enjoy in this part of town.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (4) image gallery (9) venue hire