Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. Is your local listed?
The eastern most of the trio of pubs on Strand-on-the-Green has the strongest sense of history about it. The building's pretty old for a start — a beautiful whitewashed "country pub" from the 18th century.
An inn has stood on the riverside here for over 400 years. Its most famous patron was supposedly Oliver Cromwell, who held war councils here during his tiff with Charles I. Even more outlandish claims speak of a secret tunnel from the pub's basement, which leads to nearby Oliver's Island. According to the pub website "evidence for this is disputed," though we think that should probably read "non-existent".
No matter. This is a beautiful 'ye olde' pub with its half-timbered walls and ancient cottage feel. The sunken dining area keeps the historic feel, but spruces things up with some modern banquettes.
In fact, the place could only be more pleasant if Donald Pleasance walked in... which he must have done on many an occasion, as he lived in the cottage next door.
