The Blue Anchor - Hammersmith - Pub Reviews

The Blue Anchor’s white-painted façade and iconic blue signage sit right on Hammersmith’s scenic Thames riverfront, a stone’s throw from the historic Hammersmith Bridge. This 18th-century pub is an iconic West London watering hole, combining nearly 300 years of history with a warm, local atmosphere. First licensed in 1722, the Blue Anchor has been pouring pints for locals and travellers alike since the days of George I. Its exterior beckons with bright blue benches along the river walk, inviting patrons to enjoy a pint while gazing across the water. Inside, the pub retains an old-world charm – wood-panelled interiors, nautical décor (look for the model boat prows hanging from the ceiling and oars on the walls), and cosy nooks that echo centuries of convivial history. It’s a place where you can almost feel the past, yet it manages to deliver modern comfort as well, making it a beloved spot for both Hammersmith locals and visitors exploring the Thames riverside pub scene.

Blue Anchor at a Glance: Located at 13 Lower Mall, Hammersmith, London W6 9DJ, this Grade II-listed pub (current building circa 1890s) boasts a solid 4.0/5.0 rating from patrons – a testament to its enjoyable atmosphere, quality food and drink, and friendly service. Opening hours run from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM Monday through Friday, with slightly extended morning hours on Saturday (open at 11:00 AM) and a slightly earlier closing on Sunday (10:30 PM). Below, we dive into what makes the Blue Anchor special – from its facilities and fare to its events and overall vibe – painting a detailed picture of this historic Hammersmith pub.

Facilities & Entertainment

Despite its long history, the Blue Anchor offers a comfortable, no-frills setting focused on socialising and the riverside experience rather than gimmicks. There is no on-site parking available (a common situation for central London pubs), so it’s best to arrive on foot or via public transport. Inside, you also won’t find traditional pub games like dartboards or pool tables – the emphasis here is on good conversation, great views, and classic pub ambiance over arcade entertainment. However, live sports are part of the mix: the Blue Anchor does show major matches, especially rugby games, on the TVs during big tournaments. Rugby afternoons can draw a lively crowd of fans in jerseys, yet the atmosphere remains communal and upbeat rather than rowdy. If you’re there during a Six Nations rugby clash or a high-stakes international match, expect cheers and groans to ripple through the pub as everyone watches together – it’s an enjoyable way to experience a game in a traditional setting.

One standout feature is the pub’s upstairs “River Room”, a beautifully refurbished function space with sweeping views of the Thames. This room can serve as overflow seating on busy days (providing extra tables away from the main bar hubbub) and is often used for private hires and events. In fact, locals frequently book the River Room for birthday gatherings, work functions, or club meet-ups – it offers a more secluded area while still retaining the pub’s charm and those coveted river vistas. Back on the ground floor, if the weather is fine, the outdoor seating is a huge draw. The Blue Anchor has a patio area with blue-painted picnic benches right out front on the riverside walkway. On a sunny afternoon, these seats fill up fast with people sipping pints as boats glide by on the water. There’s no expansive beer garden out back – the outdoor space is essentially the scenic Thames Path itself – but that’s more than enough to create a magical setting. On Boat Race day (the annual Oxford–Cambridge rowing race each spring), this pub is a prime viewing spot; the Blue Anchor traditionally lays on a barbecue and even live music to celebrate, making it a festive hub for spectators. In summary, while the Blue Anchor eschews high-tech entertainment and games, it leverages its strengths: a historic venue with an unparalleled location, convivial spaces, and special-event offerings that play to its riverside strengths.

Food on Offer

The Blue Anchor’s menu centres on classic British pub fare – hearty, familiar dishes – but with a few modern twists that reflect the chefs’ creativity. The kitchen prides itself on using fresh ingredients and giving extra attention to presentation and flavour. You’ll find pub classics like a golden, crispy beer-battered fish and chips (a perennial favourite here), and their signature “Anchor Burger,” a juicy beef burger often topped with smoked bacon and your choice of cheddar or Stilton, served with a pile of chips. These comfort-food staples come freshly prepared to order each day, and regulars attest that they hit the spot for satisfying traditional cravings. Importantly, the pub is quite inclusive in its offerings – there are vegetarian options (such as a veggie burger or hearty salads) and gluten-free choices available, ensuring that most everyone in a group can find something suitable on the menu.

One highlight, especially among weekend patrons, is the Sunday roast. The Blue Anchor serves a classic Sunday roast lunch that many say is worth planning your visit around. Picture this: on a lazy Sunday by the river, you can tuck into plates of roast beef (or lamb or a nut roast for vegetarians) with all the trimmings – think Yorkshire puddings fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, roast potatoes, seasonal veg, and rich gravy. It’s a generously portioned, homey meal that has garnered its own fanbase; do note that roasts are typically available only until they run out, so earlier in the afternoon is safer if you have your heart set on one. Aside from the usual suspects, the chefs often incorporate a modern twist or seasonal specials in the menu. For instance, during Burns Night celebrations in January, they’ve offered a special Haggis Scotch Egg as a festive nod to Scottish cuisine. In warmer months, you might find lighter fare or a summery twist on salads and sharing platters as part of their seasonal set menu. Overall, while the Blue Anchor doesn’t overextend itself with a huge menu, it excels in the realm of comforting pub food done well. Regulars praise the consistency – whether it’s that Anchor Burger or the steak-and-ale pie, you can expect well-cooked, flavourful food that complements your pint perfectly. And if you have room after your mains, keep an eye out for traditional desserts like sticky toffee pudding to round off your meal in true British fashion.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will feel right at home at the Blue Anchor. The pub maintains a rotating selection of four cask ales on tap at any given time, showcasing both beloved British classics and a few local or seasonal brews. As an independent pub (part of the small Hippo Inns/Chapter Collection group, rather than tied to a single brewery), the Blue Anchor has the freedom to bring in various ales – and it does. On any visit you might encounter a familiar favourite like Fuller’s London Pride or Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, alongside a guest ale from a London microbrewery or a seasonal special from elsewhere in the UK. The line-up isn’t static; the taps change periodically, which means there’s often something new for regulars to try. According to CAMRA, the pub normally keeps four real ales in prime condition, and the bartenders here know how to keep their beer. Indeed, the cellar management and pour quality get a thumbs-up from ale aficionados – you’ll likely get a properly pulled pint at the right temperature, with the cask ales well looked after (the pub has been pouring since at least 1722, after all, so they’ve had some practice).

Beyond the cask ales, the Blue Anchor’s bar features the usual selection of lagers (for those who prefer something crisper) and a decent variety of wines, plus a full range of spirits for mixed drinks. In recent years, they’ve also stepped up their game on cocktails. The pub offers a list of house-crafted cocktails which have been “carefully curated to surprise and delight,” as the management puts it. This means you can sip on a refreshing Pimms Cup or a classic G&T by the river in summer, or maybe try one of their inventive seasonal creations (for example, during winter they might have a warm mulled cider or a whisky-based cocktail special). While it’s not a cocktail bar per se, it’s nice to know the option is there for those who want something beyond beer. If cider is your preference, you’ll typically find at least one or two on tap or in bottles – often an artisan cider to satisfy those looking for a fruity pint. Soft drinks and low/no-alcohol beers are available too, making sure non-drinkers or designated drivers are taken care of. In short, the Blue Anchor’s beverage program is well-rounded: it shines brightest with its well-kept ales, but it ensures that every patron, from the hop-head to the cocktail sipper, has a quality drink in hand to toast with by the Thames.

Price Range & Value

By London standards – and especially given its picturesque riverside location – the Blue Anchor falls into a moderate (££) price range, offering good value for money. You can enjoy an evening here without feeling like you’ve been overcharged for the view (a pitfall of some touristy riverside spots). Drinks are priced in line with the neighbourhood average: expect a pint of ale or lager to cost around £5–£6, depending on the brew (with some of the stronger craft or imported beers on the higher end). This is pretty standard for West London pubs in 2025. A glass of house wine might be around the £6-7 mark, and cocktails, given their craft touches, will typically run a bit higher (perhaps £9-£10, which is still reasonable compared to central London cocktail bars).

For the food, most main dishes hover in the low-to-mid teens. For example, the Anchor Burger with chips or the fish and chips platter will usually be in the £12–£15 range, which patrons find fair for the portion and quality delivered. More premium selections, like a hearty steak or a large sharing platter, might approach the high teens (£17–£19), but those are often big enough to split or are speciality items. Notably, the Sunday roast – with all its trimmings – is priced accessibly (often around the £15 mark for a substantial plate, which, considering it can replace two meals in one go, is a decent deal). Starters and snacks (like calamari, wings, or their popular Scotch egg varieties) are typically under £8 each, making them easy add-ons if you’re just looking to nibble with your pint.

Value for money at the Blue Anchor is something many reviews highlight. You’re not only paying for the food and drink, but also the atmosphere – and on that front, the pub really delivers. Sitting by an open window (or outside) watching the Thames flow by as you sip your beer is an experience people are happy to spend on. The consensus is that you get what you pay for, in a good way: portions are generally satisfying, ingredients are fresh, and the kitchen doesn’t cut corners on quality. That said, a few visitors have commented that portion sizes on certain dishes (occasionally the chips or a particular entrée) could be a bit larger for the price. It’s a minor critique and not a universal sentiment, but it’s worth noting – especially if you arrive with a big appetite. On the whole, though, the Blue Anchor is seen as providing solid value. There are cheaper pints to be found in London and more bargain-basement eats, sure – but you’d likely be sacrificing the prime location and storied character. Here, you’re paying mid-range prices and getting a rich experience that combines food, drink, history, and view. Most patrons leave feeling it was money well spent, whether they popped in for a quick drink or settled down for a three-course Sunday lunch.

Customer Service

Walk into the Blue Anchor and you’ll often be greeted with a smile and a bit of banter – the customer service ethos here aligns with the pub’s friendly, local vibe. Despite the pub’s popularity with tourists, it very much maintains the feel of a neighbourhood local, thanks in large part to the staff. Many reviews praise the team’s warmth and welcoming nature, which immediately puts patrons at ease. The bartenders and servers tend to be chatty (when time allows) and are happy to make recommendations – whether it’s suggesting which ale to try next or helping you choose between the fish and chips or the pie. There’s a genuine sense that they want you to enjoy your visit. In fact, because the Blue Anchor often has a good number of regulars, don’t be surprised if the staff remember a returning face or remember your usual order if you’ve been a couple of times. That personal touch goes a long way in making newcomers feel like part of the community.

Service is generally efficient and attentive, even during peak times. On a packed sunny Saturday or a quiz night, the bar can get understandably busy – yet the staff manage to keep things moving without being curt. If you’re waiting for food, they’ll give you an honest estimate of how long it might take if the kitchen is slammed. Pints are typically poured with care (no huge foamy heads here unless it’s meant to have one), and if something isn’t right, the team is quick to fix it. One thing to keep in mind is that during extremely busy events – for instance, when the pub is overflowing onto the side walk during a Boat Race day or just before a big rugby match kick-off – the staff are basically in overdrive. You might wait a little longer for that drink or for your table to be cleared, simply because of the sheer volume of customers. But even then, they do their best to stay friendly and keep their cool.

Another aspect of service here is how inclusive and accommodating the pub is. Families with kids are welcome (you’ll see staff bringing high chairs or offering smaller plate options for little ones), and dogs are doted on – water bowls are available, and you might even get a treat for your pup from behind the bar, as the Blue Anchor proudly calls itself a dog-friendly pub. If you have any special requests – say, dietary needs for your meal or a particular way you’d like a cocktail made – the staff earn high marks for trying to meet those needs. The management also seems to foster a culture of hospitality; many team members have been there for a while, which is usually a good sign that they take pride in the place. Overall, the customer service at the Blue Anchor is a key part of its charm. It’s the kind of place where you feel taken care of, but also free to relax and do your own thing. That balance – attentive but not intrusive – makes for an easy, pleasant experience that leaves a positive impression. It’s no wonder that alongside compliments for the beer and view, you’ll often read people emphasising how nice the folks behind the bar were, which can be the difference between a one-time stop and a pub you’ll want to return to again and again.

Events & Special Nights

If you’re seeking a pub that doesn’t just serve pints but also provides a bit of entertainment or festivity, the Blue Anchor has you covered. One of its staple attractions is the weekly quiz night, held every Wednesday evening. This quiz has become something of a mid-week institution here, drawing a lively mix of locals and curious visitors. By around 7:30 PM on Wednesdays, you’ll see teams staking out tables, quiz sheets and pens at the ready, and a buzz of friendly competition in the air. The quiz itself tends to be good fun – not overly highbrow, but with a broad range of topics that give everyone a chance to shine (or laugh at their own mistakes). It’s hosted by a charismatic quiz master (often a staff member or a regular with a flair for trivia), and there are usually some modest prizes up for grabs, like bar tabs or a round of drinks for the winning team. Even if you’re just dropping in, don’t be shy – travellers have been known to join in or even get adopted by a team if you’re game. It’s a great way to mingle and engage with the community spirit of the pub.

Beyond quiz night, the Blue Anchor’s calendar features various special events and seasonal celebrations throughout the year. For example, in late January the pub honours its (and Britain’s) Scottish connections with a Burns Night celebration. Around that time, you might find the pub decked with a few Scottish flags and tartan accents, serving haggis specials and even mixing up a “Penicillin” cocktail (a modern Scotch whisky-based drink) as a thematic special. They encourage people to come raise a glass to Scotland’s bard, Robert Burns – it’s the kind of light-hearted cultural festivity that adds variety to the pub’s offerings. Similarly, around Christmas, the Blue Anchor gets into the festive spirit with decorations, possibly some carol singing nights or a special Christmas menu (the Chapter Collection group often has a Christmas dinner menu that groups can book in advance).

One standout event uniquely suited to the Blue Anchor’s location is the Boat Race day mentioned earlier. On the day of the Oxford vs. Cambridge rowing race, the pub is literally on the frontlines of the action, as the crews row past Hammersmith. The Blue Anchor typically becomes a party zone – they’ve been known to set up an outdoor barbecue and live music to keep the crowds entertained before and after the few thrilling minutes when the rowers sprint by. It’s an all-day affair of camaraderie, with the pub overflowing (plastic pint glasses in use for safety, likely) and an almost carnival atmosphere as London comes out to celebrate this traditional sporting event.

Besides these, keep an eye out for other themed nights or one-off events. Occasionally the pub might host a tap takeover night with a particular brewery (for the beer aficionados to sample speciality brews), or a live acoustic music session on a quiet Sunday. Major sports events are also treated as special occasions: while the Blue Anchor isn’t a dedicated sports bar, they will show big games like the football World Cup or the Rugby World Cup on a projector or the largest TV available. During such events, you’ll find the place packed and spirited, though the vibe tends to remain genial rather than rowdy, given the mix of clientele. In summary, the Blue Anchor strikes a nice balance – it’s not a pub where something is happening every single night (no blaring DJ or karaoke regularly, for instance), but when it does put on an event, it does so thoughtfully and draws a crowd. These special nights add an extra layer of appeal, making the pub not just a place to grab a drink, but a venue to make memories, whether you’re triumphantly raising the quiz trophy or clinking a special-edition cocktail at a themed party.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

One of the first things you notice upon entering the Blue Anchor is that it exudes traditional charm. The atmosphere manages to be both cosy and lively, depending on where you situate yourself. Inside the pub, you’re greeted by dark wooden panelling, a long aged bar, and a collection of maritime knick-knacks that nod to the pub’s riverside heritage – small boat models, vintage oars, and historical photos of Hammersmith’s boating past adorn the walls. There’s even a “shrine to small boats,” as one reviewer put it, which perfectly describes the affectionate clutter of seafaring memorabilia that gives the place its character. On cooler days, an open fireplace often crackles in one corner, adding both warmth and that wonderful wood-smoke scent to the air (and yes, the prime seats by the fire go quickly in winter). The layout downstairs is a single-room traditional pub space, but with a few little alcoves and a snug area toward the back that offers a slightly quieter spot if you’re looking for a nook to chat in peace. During off-peak times, it’s the kind of pub where you could bring a book or laptop, nurse a pint or coffee, and enjoy a tranquil hour watching river life through the window.

As the place fills up, especially in the evenings, the vibe turns warm and bustling. Local regulars mix with office workers stopping in on their way home and visitors who’ve sought out this storied pub. The clientele is diverse – on any given evening you might have a table of middle-aged Hammersmith neighbours in animated discussion, a few young professionals on a casual date, and a couple of tourists with guidebooks marvelling that they’re drinking in a 300-year-old establishment. Despite that mix, or perhaps because of it, everyone seems to get along in the shared enjoyment of the pub. The background music (usually classic rock or mellow folk, played at a conversational volume) and the ever-present sports scarf or two hanging from the ceiling beams give gentle reminders that this is first and foremost a community pub, not a sterile chain bar. The pub’s dog-friendly policy also means you might meet a well-behaved canine friend lounging under a table – something that invariably makes the atmosphere even homier for animal lovers. In summer, with the front doors open, the line between inside and outside blurs: people stand with drinks on the pavement by the river, laughter spills out, and there’s a general feel of good cheer and leisure, as the late evening sun glints off the water.

Moving to the upstairs River Room, the atmosphere shifts to a more laid-back lounge vibe. This space, when not privately booked, acts as an extension of the pub where you can sit at a table and enjoy a quieter meal while gazing out over the Thames. With large windows, the River Room is bright and affords excellent views – if you prefer a conversation without the background buzz of the main bar, this is a great spot to retreat to. Some patrons aren’t even aware it’s open to the public (when no event is on), so it can be a bit of a hidden gem for securing a seat on a busy day. The decor upstairs is cleaner and more contemporary after refurbishment, but they’ve kept a classic feel with vintage photographs and comfortable traditional furniture, so it still feels connected to the pub downstairs.

In terms of accessibility, the Blue Anchor does its best given the constraints of a very old building. The main entrance on Lower Mall is only a small step up from the pavement, and once inside, the ground-floor bar area is all one level – which is helpful for those with limited mobility. It can become tightly packed inside (especially near the bar) during peak times, which could be a challenge to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller, but during calmer hours it’s quite navigable. The pub’s restrooms are located on the ground floor, down a short corridor; they are fairly small (a reminder of the building’s age) and not fully wheelchair-adapted, unfortunately. The upstairs River Room is only accessible by a set of stairs – there is no lift – which means that part of the pub isn’t accessible to those who can’t do stairs. Staff, however, are very accommodating – if the downstairs is full and someone with mobility issues can’t get upstairs, they’ll do their best to make space or bring assistance as needed. On the flip side, in good weather the outdoor area is perfectly accessible – the riverside walkway is flat and spacious, so many patrons in wheelchairs or with prams simply enjoy the pub from the outside, standing or sitting at the public benches while friends take turns going in to refill drinks.

The ambiance overall is warm, inclusive, and steeped in character. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily; strangers might strike up a chat about the scenery or the game on TV, and locals are often proud to share a bit of the pub’s history with newcomers. Adding to the atmosphere are a couple of blue metal plaques mounted outside – one commemorates an Olympian rower and another a beloved regular customer, subtle markers that tie the pub into the fabric of local history and community lore. Little details like that, or the old black-and-white photos near the bar showing Hammersmith Bridge in bygone days, give you plenty to ponder or discuss as you sip your pint. In summary, whether you come for a lazy afternoon by the water or a lively evening gathering, the Blue Anchor offers an atmosphere that’s authentically London: historic, unpretentious, and vibrantly social.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Blue Anchor enjoys a prime location in Hammersmith, one that significantly contributes to its appeal. Situated on a pedestrian-friendly stretch of the Thames riverbank known as Lower Mall, the pub offers more than just great views – it’s also conveniently placed for explorers. If you’re coming by Tube, the pub is about a 5-10 minute walk from Hammersmith Station (served by the District, Piccadilly, Hammersmith & City, and Circle lines). Simply follow the signs to the river or Hammersmith Bridge, and you’ll find the Blue Anchor just east of the bridge. The approach to the pub is part of its charm: as you leave behind the busy Hammersmith Broadway with its buses and shopping centre, you suddenly find yourself on a quaint lane along the Thames, where old pubs like the Blue Anchor and its neighbour the Rutland Arms line the waterfront. It almost feels like stepping back in time or into a village pocket of London. For drivers, street parking in the immediate area is extremely limited (and subject to resident restrictions), so it’s generally not recommended – if needed, there are some paid parking garages in Hammersmith town centre, but again, public transport is the way to go here.

Once at the Blue Anchor, you’re in a lovely spot to explore the riverfront. Turning right outside the pub (heading east along the bank) leads you towards a picturesque stretch of the Thames Path that eventually reaches Chiswick – a popular route for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. In the immediate vicinity, you’ll find a couple of other historic pubs: the Rutland Arms is literally next door (cheek-by-jowl, as one guide described it), and while the Rutland also has a great location, many prefer the Blue Anchor for its atmosphere and offerings – it’s often considered “the pick of the pair” of these Hammersmith riverside pubs. A short walk further down is The Dove, another famous riverside pub (with a tiny historic bar) about 5 minutes away, making this area something of a mini pub crawl for those interested. During warm days, all these pubs including the Blue Anchor get quite busy, and the river path comes alive with people enjoying drinks outdoors. It’s a delightful scene.

For tourist attractions, Hammersmith isn’t as museum-heavy as central London, but there are still notable spots. The Hammersmith Bridge itself – visible from the pub – is an attraction; it’s a beautiful 19th-century suspension bridge (notable for its green colour and ornate design). Do note: in recent times it’s been closed to vehicular traffic due to structural repairs, but pedestrians can still cross, so you can walk over to Barnes on the south side of the river for a different perspective. Also nearby (about 0.3 miles west, just across the bridge on the south side) is the Riverside Studios, a cultural centre that includes a theatre, cinema, and arts space – they often have indie films or small productions, so it’s worth checking what’s on if you fancy pairing a show with your pub visit. Back on the north side, about a 10-minute walk from the Blue Anchor, is the Eventim Apollo (Hammersmith Apollo), one of London’s famous concert venues – if you’re in the area for a gig or comedy show there, the Blue Anchor makes a fantastic pre-show dinner or drinks spot to set the mood.

If you stroll a bit further along the river (eastward), you’ll reach the edge of Chiswick and the district of Strand-on-the-Green, which is another scenic area with pubs and 18th-century houses – though that’s a good 30-40 minute walk, so perhaps a venture for another time. In the other direction, walking west from the pub (past Hammersmith Bridge) leads you along a riverside promenade toward Fulham Palace Gardens and eventually Putney, but that’s a longer trek. For something closer, the Kings Mall and Broadway Shopping Centre up in Hammersmith proper offer retail therapy and quick eats if needed. And nature lovers might enjoy that just across the bridge, Barnes Wetland Centre is only a short bus ride or moderate walk away – a large urban nature reserve for birdwatching and greenery.

Finally, it’s worth noting the Blue Anchor’s location during special events: as discussed, the Oxford–Cambridge Boat Race passes right by here (usually in late March or early April), drawing huge crowds. Also, if you’re around on Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) in early November, there are often fireworks visible in the distance along the river – standing outside the pub with a mulled drink, you might catch some sparkles in the sky. All in all, the Blue Anchor not only stands on its own as a destination pub, but it’s also an excellent addition to any Hammersmith itinerary. Whether you’re in the area for music, theatre, a riverside walk, or even just passing through on your way to Kew Gardens (which is a few miles upriver), popping into this pub will give you a flavourful taste of local London life in a postcard-worthy setting.

Overall Impression

The Blue Anchor Hammersmith delivers a quintessential London pub experience – one that beautifully marries historic charm with a lively modern-day atmosphere. After immersing in all it has to offer, it’s easy to see why this place has endured for centuries and remains a favourite among the best Thames-side pubs in the city. The location is undoubtedly a star asset: few things compare to sipping a well-kept ale while watching the sun glitter on the River Thames. Add to that the pub’s storied past (you’re quite literally walking on almost 300 years of history here) and it already stands out. But the Blue Anchor doesn’t rest on nostalgia alone – it wins patrons over on the merits of its food, drink, and hospitality in the present day. The menu offers reliable quality and some delightful twists on classics; the bar serves up a curated selection of ales and cocktails that cater to all tastes. And the people – both the staff and the regular crowd – make strangers feel like locals, upholding a tradition of friendliness that you’d hope to find in a neighbourhood pub.

Of course, like any popular spot, it has its quirks and minor caveats. On a sun-drenched summer afternoon or during a big event, the Blue Anchor can get very busy – you might find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder outside, and getting a seat might require patience or timing. If you’re the type who prefers a quiet pint in solitude, you’ll want to choose your visiting time carefully (weekday afternoons are generally tranquil). Also, a few guests note that while the food is delicious, certain dishes aren’t huge in portion size relative to their price – a small trade-off for the overall quality and location, but something to be aware of if you arrive ravenous. These points aside, criticisms of the Blue Anchor are scarce. The pub has managed to maintain high standards; it’s clean, well-run, and balances being a tourist-friendly landmark without losing its local soul.

The Blue Anchor is more than just a pub – it’s an experience of London’s riverside culture. It’s the laughter of a Wednesday quiz team high-fiving over a correct answer, the clink of glasses as new friends toast at sunset, the comforting smell of ale and hearty food as you step in from a winter chill, and the sight of dogs dozing happily at their owners’ feet after a riverside walk. It’s a place where famous figures have drunk (legend has it composer Gustav Holst found inspiration here, and Hollywood even popped by to film a scene), yet it remains unpretentious and down-to-earth. Whether you’re a London local looking for a reliable riverside hangout or a visitor hunting down that perfect historic pub by the Thames, the Blue Anchor will likely steal a spot in your heart. It truly delivers on all fronts – scenic views, tasty pints, hearty food, good company, and a story to tell. In a city filled with great pubs, this one confidently holds its own, earning its place as a must-visit Hammersmith gem.