Albert Embankment,
Vauxhall,
London,
SE1 7TP
(020) 7582 1066
The ViewLondon Review
Dreaming of long cruises across the Caribbean seas sipping on an ice cold drink, whilst in reality you’re sat in an office in Vauxhall? Then Tamesis Dock – a moored boat with a bar and kitchen – could offer a little taste of your holiday fantasy.
The Venue
Formerly known as The English Maid, Tamesis Dock is the only boat moored on the Albert Embankment, and with three separate decks there is something for everyone with each individual area having a different atmosphere from the last.
The outside of the boat resembles a holiday cruise ship you might see in the Caribbean or similar. The inside is intimate and cosy with lots of dark leather sofas and windows revealing the vista of London and the Thames. The main deck is the hub of the boat where the larger bar is situated. Similar in decor is the lower deck with some additional quirky features such as red chandeliers and large black and white prints this is the area where most of the dining takes place. The lower deck is available for private hire but at other times is a spill over for when its busy. The upper deck is open air and is great for warm summer days and evenings. Just a stone’s throw away is Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye, which make for a stunning view.
The Atmosphere
There’s something about boats and open air drinking that is reminiscent of much longed for holidays, and Tamesis Dock is no exception. There is something for everyone here, from an intimate tete-a-tete to groups, large and small. The staff are welcoming and friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. With jazz, salsa and soul playing in the background there is a nice relaxed feel where you find yourself totally unwinding.
The Food
The food menu is very appetising with sandwiches priced from £3.50 or snacks such as battered prawns with sweet chilli dip for £4. Salads cost from £3.50 for tomato, red onion, mozzarella and pesto, whilst chicken and bacon salad is £6.50. Mains cost from £6 for an Aberdeen Angus beef burger and chips. Recommended is the Thai red or green vegetable curry for just £7.50. All puddings are £3.50 for such options as the Bramley apple pie and ice cream or custard.
The Drink
On draught are Guinness, Carling and Grolsh. Bottled beers include a selection of premium brands from across the world with names such as Grolsch Weizen, Kastelcru (a Champagne beer) and a Mexican Dux XX Amber or Italian Birra Moretti. Also found in bottles are Magners, Sagres, Strongbow, Grolsch, Old Speckled Hen, Cobra, Tiger and London Pride.
Wine is reasonably priced and all glasses are the large 250ml size. Prices start at £4.50 for a glass of Les Merquileres Blanc - the house wine. A New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is £18 a bottle. House red is the same as white or a bottle of Cotes du Rhone is priced at £20. Rose is £5 for a Chilean Merlot or Prosecco is £25 a bottle and Bollinger is £70. All wines have a helpful description on the menu, making your choice that much easier.
The Last Word
A jewel in the Crown of Vauxhall. The novelty of a moored boat in an urban area with great service and a lovely holiday atmosphere is not to be missed. Recommended.
Tamesis Dock has been reviewed by 13 users