The Mayflower
Pub in Rotherhithe
8 / 10 from 1 review
Address
117 Rotherhithe Street
Rotherhithe
London
SE16 4NF
117 Rotherhithe Street
Rotherhithe
London
SE16 4NF
Telephone
020 7237 4088
020 7237 4088
Region
Rotherhithe
Rotherhithe
Category
Pubs
Pubs
Opening Times
Monday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Tuesday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Wednesday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Thursday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Friday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Saturday
Opens 11:00 - Closes 23:00
Sunday
Closed
The Mayflower Picture Gallery
All In London Review
Seventeenth century historic riverside pub with live music
And this stunning little pub. There’s a small and pretty frontage on a cobbled street. When we went, there were plenty of folk standing outside enjoying the warm evening. Inside it’s like stepping back in time. It must be one of the oldest pubs in London.
It’s dark. Bricks walls. There are beams on the low ceiling. Real ones. There are atmospheric candles everywhere evoking older times. There are dark wood booths at different levels (watch out for the steps) and groups gathered around old tables. There is a small room off to the right. I expected to see a highwayman and his gang in there.
The walls have ancient charts and images from olden times. And there are all manner of shipping artefacts on shelves and hanging from the ceiling. And large flower arrangements. And all around are quotes from Dickens (love the one about oysters and poverty). It’s like a living museum. Chaotic but charming. And the place is packed.
The busy bar staff provide a swift service. Then you have to battle through the crowds to find a seat. No one seems to mind sharing. There’s a rather good band playing in a corner booth – a guitar and harmonica.
Out the back is a further area – a marquee provides cover from the night air and there are heaters and lots of benches. Apparently, in daylight hours the views of the river are astonishing. My friends tell me that the cheese board is not to be missed. And I missed it!
The place was full of young folk and locals. And everyone seemed utterly relaxed and happy. Luckily, it’s a little off the beaten track for the tourist hoards to find it – but they’d love it if they could.
Reviewed by KimT
Published on Mar 23, 2015
Best For
Our pick of London's oldest pubs
Step back in time
Located on a charming old street, the Mayflower is just the pub you need when you’re trying to feel young. Established in 1622, it is Rotherhithe’s ancient riverside idyll. Enjoy the views, explore the old interior and eat in the upstairs restaurant.
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