The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

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Supposedly the oldest pub on the Thames; supposedly built on the launching point for the Pilgrim Fathers; and supposedly the only UK pub licensed to sell US stamps... the Mayflower carries a bevy of claims to fame. A more recent accolade is being voted second best pub on the Thames by Londonist readers — not bad for a place that's a good ways from central London.

Inside the Mayflower

There's no arguing with its charms. Dark timber beams, dangling mugs, low ceilings and a forest of plants make it hard to describe without slipping in the word 'cosy'. The first floor dining room is well known for good food at good value, and you're unlikely to get a table unless you've booked. The ale selection is pretty decent, with six beers on cask on our most recent visit. No London Pride here. The plum seats (in summer) are out on the riverside decking beneath the star-spangled banner. But beware. At high tide, people in the front row will get wet.

This is a popular pub, and a small one, so best not turn up expecting to find seats, especially in the evening or weekend afternoons (tables in the main bar can be booked in advance). Once the space is taken, people spill out into the small side-yard and street front. With numerous historic buildings opposite, it's not a bad place to have to stand.

A recent addition to the pub is the 'Descendants Book'. Anyone visiting who claims direct descent from one of the Pilgrim Fathers is welcome to sign. Not only did the settlers supposedly embark from this spot, their ship the Mayflower was also left to rot here upon its return.

Images below are from 2017, so might not reflect the current look. We leave them here for posterity. That said, this place changes little.

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A Thames-side beer terrace that floods at high tide.
A Thames-side beer terrace that floods at high tide.
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Address: 117 Rotherhithe Street London SE16 4NF

Phone: 020 7237 4088

Email:
[email protected]

Website:
http://themayflowerrotherhithe.com

Monday: noon-11pm

Tuesday: noon-11pm

Wednesday: noon-11pm

Thursday: noon-11pm

Friday: noon-11pm

Saturday: noon-11pm

Sunday: noon-9pm

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