As a country, we’re fairly pub mad, turning our nose up at stuffier options for something more homely, nostalgic and steeped in history. And as far as historic pubs go, the Trafalgar Tavern takes the trophy, being built in 1837 and becoming a watering hole for the high society throughout time. Since starting its life during the year of Queen Victoria’s coronation, this Grade II-listed building has taken many forms. From a riverside pub with regulars like Charles Dickens, to a home for retired sailors and later accommodation for serving naval officers. The venue was finally restored to its former glory in the 1960s to bring Greenwich a refurbished pub that pays homage to its past.
As the name might suggest, the Trafalgar Tavern comes from a naval background, which heavily influences the décor throughout the venue. From being welcomed by a statue of Admiral Lord Nelson outside, to the naval paintings and ornaments enveloping the walls indoors, it’s clearly a pub that hasn’t forgotten it’s heritage.
For food you can expect both a mix of traditional pub classics like beer battered fish and chips or bangers and mash, as well as more adventurous alternatives like bacon wrapped dates and shawarma spiced cauliflower. One of the notable additions to the menu is the Greenwich whitebait, which stems from the 'Ministerial Whitebait Dinner', an annual tradition of politicians famously travelling from Westminster by barge, to eat whitebait cooked fresh from the River Thames.
To drink, there’s an extensive list of wines, spirits and beers – including the signature Trafalgar Tavern Lager by Signal Brewery. For those long summer days when a pub terrace is the only way to pass the time, this self-proclaimed jewel of the Thames is a perfect spot to unwind in Greenwich's tranquillity – and don’t worry, it does two and four pint pitchers to save you too many trips to the bar when the sun's out.