A Young’s pub popular for lazy afternoons by The Thames, The Old Ship is one of several pubs between Hammersmith Bridge and Corney Reach, but most people agree that it’s the best of the bunch.

The Venue
You can’t beat a day out by The Thames and, if you walk along the path by The Old Ship, you may even forget you’re in London. A villagey atmosphere strikes as loudly as the bells from the nearby rustic-style church, whilst a mix of joggers, lucky local residents, day-trippers and, of course, boating enthusiasts make use of the river and its scenic views. Private grassy Thames-side gardens sit waiting to be used and beautiful historical houses stand alongside modern residential developments.

The Atmosphere
Clearly the most popular pub on this stretch, tables, inside and out, are keenly contested on fair-weather days. Get lucky and you might just squeeze into a table two seconds after it’s been vacated. Either that or you can stand hawk-eyeing in case any seats become available.

Families with children are notably out in force and dog owners are more than welcome to bring their beloved canine friend in to the premises. Staff are mostly excellent and go about their business with a smile on their face.

The Food
Young’s usually do a pretty good job of the pub grub thing – and The Old Ship is a fair reflection of this. Burgers, fish and chips (£9.35) and sharing platters (£13.55-£15.25) are all present and correct. However, Sunday roasts (£11.45) are particularly coveted even if they’re not as outstanding as the demand makes you believe. Belly of pork, roast beef, half a chicken and a vegetarian option are always offered and they all come served with a mountainous Yorkshire pudding that dominates the plate and is so big it almost blocks out the sun. Even if the Yorkshires are visually the most impressive feature, they’re unfortunately a real let down as they tend to be served cold, luke warm at best, and they have the look, feel and taste of having being cooked and subsequently sat around to the point they’re hard and doughy rather than hot and fluffy. This aside, the rest of the plate is much better – the chicken on the bone is succulent and tender, and the medley of veg, and gravy is more than agreeable. Ordering mash instead of the roast spuds is another useful piece of advice.

The Drink
Young’s ales dominate the pumps and are a big hit with gents. Heineken is a good choice for lager-drinkers and Bulmer’s is another highly visible choice.

Wine is decent – an Alta Vista Malbec 2006 from Argentina (£18.50 a bottle) is a favourite with staff and it may become yours as it’s a very good example of a Malbec.

The Last Word
Sick of the hustle and bustle of The City? Take a trip to The Old Ship, settle in for a bite to eat and enjoy a post-meal stroll by The Thames, you’ll instantly feel more relaxed.

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