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This is a historic pub just steps away from the Globe theater; my dad and I headed that way for a few rounds before a play. We got there slightly before five and, by the time we left, it was so full - there were a line of people down the Thames with drinks. (They do offer drinks in plastic cups to takeaway or go outside.) Menu looked good - even though we only nibbled on some fries, as we had just come from the nearby market. Overall, it was a cool place to hang out for a few hours - tons of seating and cold drinks!
Stopped by this historic pub that I used to frequent when I was working here many years ago. The neighborhood is completely different. Had a Guinness, fish and chips and Sticky Toffee Pudding. It was the middle of the day and the area was bustling. Quick and friendly service in a very historic pub. Multiple floors and nooks and crannies.
Tucked away within walking distance of Borough Market, this old pub feels like one of London's best-kept secrets. Surprisingly low on tourists, it's the kind of place that tells a history, with a layout that stretch out almost like wandering through a maze room after room, each with its own vibe and charm. The Guinness perfectly poured, smooth and creamy as it should be. And the fish and chips spot on. A flaky, tender piece of fish wrapped in a batter so crisp it practically crackles. Simple, honest, and everything you want from a proper British pub.
The Anchor Pub had been on my list to try while exploring London. It was on a couple lists I perused, I knew it had a rich history, and walking by it several times, the vibrant yet cozy exterior seemed to draw me in. The interior is similar to other pubs in the area. Plenty of small high tops, wooden bar counters, lively atmosphere, etc. There is also outdoors bankside/Thames River seating (and walkup bars). The staff behind the bar was nice and would offer up suggestions when prompted. The servers that brought us our food would not say a word to us, did not smile, and when we asked if we could have silverware they made us feel like it was all part of their plan to go back and grab some anyway. The food was mediocre at best. The fish & chips were nothing to write home about. There are far better fish & chips even within stones throwing distance. The sticky toffee pudding was nice, but they were out of ice cream so we had to make do with custard and vegan ice cream (I got 2 to try both options out). The steak and ale pie was a real let down. I had previously visited a couple other pubs where the pies were not only on point, they actually kind of blew me away. Anchor's pie was bigger, but it lacked flavor and the aged beef gave a lingering sour and salty taste. The ales were the typical ales you could find in any London Pub. I wish I had better things to say about the pub, but the ambiance was more loud and annoying than fun, the food was simply less than what I expected, and the staff was hit or miss in terms of quality service. If you're in the Tate Modern or Globe Theater area you can certainly swing by this pub, but you're actually so close to Burrough Market, and you should DEFINTELY check that out. And in terms of pubs, I would recommend the Red Lion Pub or Churchill Arms if you get a chance. Worth Noting: Pub Trivia lovers, the Anchor hosts a weekly Monday night pub trivia. I really wanted to attend, but unfortunately, I was busy that evening. Cheers!!
The Anchor pub is located where taverns of various names have operated for over 800 years. It all began as the "brewery tap room" for the Anchor Brewery, established in 1616. It was operating in Shakespeare's time, the Globe just a short walk away...William Shakespeare himself a patron here. Due to the location on the south bank of the River Thames and the historic nature of the building, expect crowds when you dine and/or drink here. The experience can be a bit chaotic. Don't expect a host to seat or instruct you. Go in, find a table and if you can, ask a server what your table number is. Once you've chosen from the menu, send a member of your party to one of the bars to order drinks and food. They'll ask for your table number. The food came out quickly considering the crowds, however the order was missing my entree and had to be reordered. Meanwhile, I split a Crab sandwich with another member of my party and when my burger arrived we split that as well. The crab was battered and deep fried and was overwhelmed by the flavor of the batter. The "Vintage Cheeseburger" was better but about average for what you'd expect for pub food. The menu description: Vintage Cheddar & Bacon Burger: Glazed linseed bun, aged beef burger, Beechwood smoked bacon and a melting slice of 1833 Barber's Vintage Cheddar. Served with house seasoned fries and East Coast IPA BBQ relish The East Coast IPA BBQ relish served with the fries was very good! In closing, this is where the closing scene of Mission Impossible (with Tom Cruise) was filmed. In the movie it was the terrace pub where Ethan finally gets to unwind...because you know, he chose to accept it...the Mission that is. This review will not self destruct in five seconds.
We hung out here for a while- we were tired of walking and were waiting to get into the Globe. We tried a variety of dishes and all of them were delicious! I had the pea and mint soup, which had a wonderful complex flavor, and made me want to have mint in more savory dishes. My mother had the vintage cheddar Mac and cheese, which was so rich and indulgent, but had a great sharp, cheesy flavor. We also shared the halloumi, which was battered and fried in the style of fish and chips- this was great for me as a vegetarian who can't have the actual dish. For desert we shared a lovely and airy blackberry Eton mess and a sticky toffee pudding- which was the opposite of airy, but was delicious nonetheless. I still think about it quite often... The service was very good- everyone was nice and helpful, and had great recommendations for us. The pub itself is a rather large space, but the dim lighting and dark furnishings make it feel comfortable and cozy.
I LOVED this spot! I got to take an uber boat here and thought the experience was so special and fun. It's in an old, gorgeous, historic building that stays true to its character but has a modern charm. I am from Seattle and never really understood the appeal of a pub, but wow I could have spent all day here. Each room, floor, corner is unique and interesting. It feels like a portal back in time, but still vibrant and comfortable. The patio had a beautiful view of the river and bridges and was just close enough to the upstairs indoor bar. There was always a small line at the bar, but never more than a few people since all the bartenders are quick and efficient. I am not a huge beer gal, but was happy to see some non-gluten beers, ciders, spritzes, and more. Did a gf mango beer (YUM) and a limoncello spritz and enjoyed the mild weather and gorgeous architecture. Would come back here daily if I were local. read more
The Anchor is another amazing pub in London. The ambience is historic, amazing, breathtaking. The interior has something to see everywhere you turn. We sat both indoors and out and both were fun to be in. Staff was friendly and the food was very good as well. It's such a nice place to sit and relax, people watch and see tourist run about but it's also nice to sit inside and have some peace and quiet. We got a steak sandwich here and it was delicious. Really good crisps too. No complaints about the anchor! Beautiful views all around as it's right on the river as well. read more
10 months ago
Just stopped by for a beer because how could you not stop and have a drink with Williams spirit! this place is so big and beautiful. It doesn't matter which entrance you step in through there's a bar whichever door you go through. There's also seating right across the walk way getting a beautiful view of the cleaner river you've ever seen/ jk/ The girl at the bar was so nice and helpful although I couldn't get a hello from any other employee. Over all very cool, which the market wasn't so close because that where we decided to eat. read more
11 months ago
This is a historic pub just steps away from the Globe theater; my dad and I headed that way for a few rounds before a play. We got there slightly before five and, by the time we left, it was so full - there were a line of people down the Thames with drinks. (They do offer drinks in plastic cups to takeaway or go outside.) Menu looked good - even though we only nibbled on some fries, as we had just come from the nearby market. Overall, it was a cool place to hang out for a few hours - tons of seating and cold drinks! read more
Stopped by this historic pub that I used to frequent when I was working here many years ago. The neighborhood is completely different. Had a Guinness, fish and chips and Sticky Toffee Pudding. It was the middle of the day and the area was bustling. Quick and friendly service in a very historic pub. Multiple floors and nooks and crannies. read more
11 months ago
Delicious, close to Boroug market. Was taken here after a tour and stayed for drinks afterwards. Had a pale ale with my fish and chips and afterwards had more pale ale and cider. Both drinks were wonderful, I always get ciders when visiting Europe since they taste better than in the US. read more
Great and historic pub on the banks of the Thames. Beers are good but not great. I enjoyed the hazy. It costs a little more here due to the location but there a lot of nooks and crannies to hang around in and a deck that faces the river. Note your table number and order at the bar. read more
This is an historic pub but it is very modern and loud. Good selection of beers and food. Very crowded. Lots of noise. Not my first choice. Food was ok. It was generally bar food. It doesn't feel like an historical pub, more like a modern bar. read more
Tucked away within walking distance of Borough Market, this old pub feels like one of London's best-kept secrets. Surprisingly low on tourists, it's the kind of place that tells a history, with a layout that stretch out almost like wandering through a maze room after room, each with its own vibe and charm. The Guinness perfectly poured, smooth and creamy as it should be. And the fish and chips spot on. A flaky, tender piece of fish wrapped in a batter so crisp it practically crackles. Simple, honest, and everything you want from a proper British pub. read more
The Anchor Pub had been on my list to try while exploring London. It was on a couple lists I perused, I knew it had a rich history, and walking by it several times, the vibrant yet cozy exterior seemed to draw me in. The interior is similar to other pubs in the area. Plenty of small high tops, wooden bar counters, lively atmosphere, etc. There is also outdoors bankside/Thames River seating (and walkup bars). The staff behind the bar was nice and would offer up suggestions when prompted. The servers that brought us our food would not say a word to us, did not smile, and when we asked if we could have silverware they made us feel like it was all part of their plan to go back and grab some anyway. The food was mediocre at best. The fish & chips were nothing to write home about. There are far better fish & chips even within stones throwing distance. The sticky toffee pudding was nice, but they were out of ice cream so we had to make do with custard and vegan ice cream (I got 2 to try both options out). The steak and ale pie was a real let down. I had previously visited a couple other pubs where the pies were not only on point, they actually kind of blew me away. Anchor's pie was bigger, but it lacked flavor and the aged beef gave a lingering sour and salty taste. The ales were the typical ales you could find in any London Pub. I wish I had better things to say about the pub, but the ambiance was more loud and annoying than fun, the food was simply less than what I expected, and the staff was hit or miss in terms of quality service. If you're in the Tate Modern or Globe Theater area you can certainly swing by this pub, but you're actually so close to Burrough Market, and you should DEFINTELY check that out. And in terms of pubs, I would recommend the Red Lion Pub or Churchill Arms if you get a chance. Worth Noting: Pub Trivia lovers, the Anchor hosts a weekly Monday night pub trivia. I really wanted to attend, but unfortunately, I was busy that evening. Cheers!! read more
11 months ago
Great food. Good drinks. Atmosphere was unique and the service was good. But there's no way anyone would know the seating procedure or ordering procedure because there are no signs or anyone helping out. Despite that it's a cool place and worth a visit. read more
The Anchor pub is located where taverns of various names have operated for over 800 years. It all began as the "brewery tap room" for the Anchor Brewery, established in 1616. It was operating in Shakespeare's time, the Globe just a short walk away...William Shakespeare himself a patron here. Due to the location on the south bank of the River Thames and the historic nature of the building, expect crowds when you dine and/or drink here. The experience can be a bit chaotic. Don't expect a host to seat or instruct you. Go in, find a table and if you can, ask a server what your table number is. Once you've chosen from the menu, send a member of your party to one of the bars to order drinks and food. They'll ask for your table number. The food came out quickly considering the crowds, however the order was missing my entree and had to be reordered. Meanwhile, I split a Crab sandwich with another member of my party and when my burger arrived we split that as well. The crab was battered and deep fried and was overwhelmed by the flavor of the batter. The "Vintage Cheeseburger" was better but about average for what you'd expect for pub food. The menu description: Vintage Cheddar & Bacon Burger: Glazed linseed bun, aged beef burger, Beechwood smoked bacon and a melting slice of 1833 Barber's Vintage Cheddar. Served with house seasoned fries and East Coast IPA BBQ relish The East Coast IPA BBQ relish served with the fries was very good! In closing, this is where the closing scene of Mission Impossible (with Tom Cruise) was filmed. In the movie it was the terrace pub where Ethan finally gets to unwind...because you know, he chose to accept it...the Mission that is. This review will not self destruct in five seconds. read more
2 years ago
We hung out here for a while- we were tired of walking and were waiting to get into the Globe. We tried a variety of dishes and all of them were delicious! I had the pea and mint soup, which had a wonderful complex flavor, and made me want to have mint in more savory dishes. My mother had the vintage cheddar Mac and cheese, which was so rich and indulgent, but had a great sharp, cheesy flavor. We also shared the halloumi, which was battered and fried in the style of fish and chips- this was great for me as a vegetarian who can't have the actual dish. For desert we shared a lovely and airy blackberry Eton mess and a sticky toffee pudding- which was the opposite of airy, but was delicious nonetheless. I still think about it quite often... The service was very good- everyone was nice and helpful, and had great recommendations for us. The pub itself is a rather large space, but the dim lighting and dark furnishings make it feel comfortable and cozy. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Would not recommend. They don't care about service. Food was soooo bland and the chicken was as hard as a shoe. Not a good experience. Not to mention there was a long blonde hair wrapped around my sandwich. There were many people it is really loud inside. read more
8 months ago
GO BACK IN TIME TO 1676 at this ancient riverside pub. Rebuilt after the great fire of London in 1666 , the anchor offers a rare glimpse of what the old riverside pubs were like in the 17th and 18th centuries. Once frequented by river pirates (can you say Arrrrr) and merchants alike, you can enjoy some of the same fare as they did so long ago. Steak and Ale Pie with Cabbage! This traditional British invention comes with a side of delicious gravy (dripping gravy) which you pour over your pie as you eat it. The pie comes with a thick crust, although in some places the crust is thin. Also here, there is plenty of gravy already in the pie, but you can also put it on your mash (mashed potatoes) or if you got fries you can dip your fries in it. I tried it on my cabbage but it I think it actually detracted from the delicious cabbage flavor. Oh, and I think it's called Steak and Ale Pie, not because it's made with ale but because you're supposed to have a pint with it! But you know I just read a recipe on-line and there IS dark ale in it. The rest of the recipe, what with the crust and everything is SO complicated, that I really felt like "I should not try this at home" but hey, if you wanna take a stab at it, be my guest, but a least have a couple at some Brit restaurant so you can get an idea what it's SUPPOSED to taste/look like. When you arrive you find a table. (Remember your table number) then go to the bar and order/pay and they will bring it to your table. Meat and Ale Pies vary in taste and technique, I've only had one other, so, I'm not an expert. I thought it was pretty good though so, if you don't like it, try another place. I think though you will really enjoy having a pint or even a burger with the ghosts of merchants and pirates at The Anchor. Arrrrrrrreee read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
The Anchor was good! Owned by a very prevalent restaurant group, the beers and menu was the same as a few pub-like places we walked into. My friends and I all ordered draft ciders which were delicious and crisp. We started with a hummus platter, which to my surprise was really good and fresh. For entrees, my friends ordered two different savory pies, and I decided on fish and chips. The fish was a little bit over-saturated with oil, but I picked around certain parts and it was fine. The pies were a hit with my friends. The location of Anchor was great. We walked by it during the day, and it seemed to be packed with tourists. When we went at night for drinks and dinner, it was way more manageable. read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
We booked a table beforehand knowing the Anchor would be busy. After finally finding someone that could check us in after multiple rude staff, we were brought to a small room INFESTED with flies. The menu had a QR code to order from, which we did. We ordered appetizers, drinks, and meals. After about an hour we were beginning to worry, but our meals finally came. It was horrible and room temperature. We still hadn't received our appetizer or drinks and had to track down any staff member we could find to get the rest of our order that we paid for. The drinks ended up coming nearly an hour and a half after we initially ordered. It was a very cool place and a great atmosphere but horrible everything else. read more
3 years ago
Very busy pub, very average food. This pub is super busy on Friday evenings, like most central pubs in London. They do have several bars throughout the different rooms, so ordering doesn't take too long, even at the busiest crush times. The food was only average pub food quality, disappointing mac&cheese that tasted like cardboard and a rather dry pie that needed lots of gravy to make it edible. The food looked nice, but didn't deliver in taste and texture. It was also very loud and crushed at times, so not what I'd call comfortable. We had booked a table, but the group next to us just took over part of our table, spreading out way too far into our space. There's definitely better options in the area. read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
8 years ago
Screwed up setup, blah food.... not impressed. Don't waste your time or money. Will not be back. read more
2 years ago
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More info about The Anchor
34 Park Street
London SE1 9EF
United Kingdom
London Bridge, South Bank
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020 7407 1577
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The Anchor - pubs - Updated May 2026
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