Prospect of Whitby

Once known as the 'Devil's Tavern' thanks to its delinquent clientele, the Prospect of Whitby is one of the oldest pubs in London - and the oldest riverside pub in London. Built in 1520, it managed to survive the Great Fire but a blaze in the 18th century necessitated a complete refurbishment. The pubs shadowy innards ooze atmosphere. You can almost picture a gang of highwaymen around one of the large tables, swigging greedily from tankards of ale, plotting to rob a stagecoach. The main attraction on the charming terrace with its fabulous views of the Isle of Dogs and the Thames is the infamous noose which hints at its villainous past. The inside is strewn with ancient remnants of ship lanterns, wheels and ropes; you'll notice a ships mast built into the very structure of the building and it acquired its current name from a ship moored close by. A pewter-topped bar is complemented with dark panelling, barrels and an original flagstone floor. Refreshingly absent are any blaring widescreen TVs. No longer a haunt of thieves or murderers, the Prospect of Whitby, and Wapping as a whole, has seen an upturn in its fortunes over the centuries. The restaurant upstairs, opened in the 1950s, has served its high class take on traditional British cuisine to VIPs including Princess Margaret, Prince Rainier and Kirk Douglas. As the regular coach loads of sightseers attests, this pub sits firmly on the tourist trail but it still retains a friendly bunch of locals. A great place to drop in whilst wandering down the Thames path. Nearby attractions: Tower Bridge, the Wapping Project, St Katherines Docks. Notes: Children welcome, Dogs welcome, Outside area, Restaurant.