We almost broke into a series of sea shanties as we were about to write this review, but fortunately we managed to pull ourselves together and step back from the void. The reason for the mild sea-faring singathon penchant is that Tamesis Dock, situated on the banks of the Albert Embankment, is just about as close as you’re going to get to being out on the ocean waves while to still being moored up in the centre of London.
Overshadowed by the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and with views across to Westminster, Lambeth and Vauxhal Bridges, Tamesis Dock is a converted 1930s Dutch barge of epic proportions. Now a swaying pub and live music venue moored up on the south bank of the Thames, it’s got more treasure than Black Beard’s great great great granddaughter’s undies and enough cheap liquor to fuel the return of the Marie Celeste (relatively inexpensive for Central London).
It’s not just the adventurous feel of the venue that makes it so brilliant brilliant though, as it’s also got a very cool style to it and a lot more space than you’d imagine. It’s also set in a great location that kind of makes it feel like it’s something special with the London skyline reflecting on the rippling water that it floats upon.
It has lots of open air seats on the deck with great views of the epicentre of the city and London Eye, as well as a couple of floors inside when rough tides force you out of the driving rain. Added to the mix is a good basic hot and cold food menu (burgers, ciabatas and wraps), a regular stream of events on the boat – BBQ nights, karaoke ukulele sessions – and some great gigs (Big Deal launched their debut album, Lights Out on the floating barge).
Drinks prices are fairly reasonable, considering it’s location in the heart of London – putting it up there with Sam Smiths Pubs for price with Grolsch, Blue Moon and Camden Pale Ale on draught at around £4 and cocktails are £7. The bar staff are pretty good and fairly fast at serving drinks, but Tamesis Dock’s best quality is it’s location. If you’re in London on a sunny day, a seat on the upper deck watching the sun go down on the Thames is about as cool as it gets.
Tamesis Dock review: 4.2/5
thanks for your excellent review.