The Dove

Remember Rule Britannia, that jingoistic classic? Well, did you know that the lyrics were written in an unassuming riverside pub in Hammersmith? The Dove certainly has some history, but thankfully there’s more to it than its own storied past - although we did take some pleasure in scanning the list above the fire place in the front bar of famous names to have drunk here over the years – Diana Dors and Julie Andrews stood out.

Located west of Hammersmith Bridge, The Dove is the type of pub that you want to stumble on at the end of a long river walk in high winds and drizzle, a cosy bolt hole accessible from a narrow, nondescript alleyway. With a dining room and riverside terrace looking over the water, you can expect to find full tables on weekends as west Londoner’s stop in for all-day lunches. Food is of the classic British pub menu variety, which means roasts, burgers and pies. Not too far from the home of Fuller’s in Chiswick, The Dove lives in the shadow of its parent brewery so you’ll find the finest ESB, Honey Dew and Freedom lager on tap as well as rotating real ales.

While The Dove’s river views might be mistaken as its finest qualities, it is the front bar that does it for us. To the right of the entrance, hidden behind a solid wooden door, you’ll find Britain’s smallest bar. One room, not much bigger than 6x6 foot, houses one table and comes with access to its own slice of bar. Our advice, attempt to book in advance, arrive as the pub opens or bribe the bar staff, just do whatever it takes to get that table.