Prospect Of Whitby

The Prospect of Whitby is London's oldest riverside pub. It dates all the way back to 1520 and still boasts its original flagstone floor and a rare pewter-topped bar. Old barrels and ships masts have been built into the structure to add to its historic credentials. There are spectacular river views from the pub's two balconies and gardens, as well as from the great old windows, making the most of the river that meanders past here on its way to the sea. The pub was originally frequented by maritime folk, and was a notorious haunt for smugglers, thieves and pirates. Bare knuckle boxing matches and animal fights used to be held here in the bad old days, and little signs around the bar and eating area give you the pub's history. Other notable customers have been Charles Dickens, Samuel Pepys, Judge Jeffries and artists Whistler and Turner, as well as a resident ghost. A sign at the top of the stairs tells you that the pub is still haunted by various characters from its past, including the victim of a murder that took place here too a few centuries ago. In more modern times, this pub was a favourite of Paul Newman, Kirk Douglas, and Princess Margaret.