The Mayflower - Rotherhithe - Pub Reviews

Name: The Mayflower Pub

Location: 117 Rotherhithe Street, Rotherhithe, London, SE16 4NF

Phone: 020 7237 4088

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: No

Food on Offer:
The Mayflower Pub offers a menu of classic British dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Patrons frequently praise the steamed fresh mussels and the honey and rosemary baked camembert as delightful starters. For mains, options like pan-fried sea bass fillet and a variety of traditional roasts, including beef sirloin, chicken, pork belly, lamb, and a vegetarian wellington, are available. Each roast is accompanied by seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and gravy.

Beers on Tap:
The Mayflower Pub offers an excellent selection of draught beers, ranging from classic European lagers to craft favourites. Highlights include ABK Lager (5%), Leffe Blonde (6.6%), and Blue Moon (5.4%), alongside London-brewed options like Brixton Coldharbour Lager (4.4%). Traditional choices like Moretti (4.6%), Guinness (4.2%), and Aspalls Cider (4.6%) are also available.

For ale enthusiasts, the pub features a rotating selection of cask ales, with pricing based on ABV, ensuring a fresh and varied experience for beer lovers. Whether you prefer a crisp lager, a rich stout, or a refreshing cider, there’s something to suit all tastes.

Price Range:
The Mayflower Pub is considered "Happily Affordable" (££). Starters are priced around £7.50, mains range from £15 to £22, and desserts are available for approximately £6.95. Draughts are around £6/£7 a pint and Cask are £5/£6.

Customer Service:
Feedback on customer service is generally positive. Diners appreciate the attentive and friendly staff, noting their willingness to recommend suitable wine pairings and their overall helpfulness during meals. One reviewer mentioned, "Our waiter effortlessly recommended a great wine and was attentive throughout our entire meal."

Events & Special Nights:
The Mayflower Pub hosts special promotions, such as "Pie & A Pint" on Wednesdays, where guests can enjoy a delicious pie paired with a pint of their choice for £18. On Fridays, the "Fishy Friday" deal offers two portions of fish and chips for £25.

In-Depth Review:

Nestled along the cobbled streets of Rotherhithe, The Mayflower Pub stands as a testament to London's rich maritime history. Claiming the title of the oldest pub on the River Thames, its storied past is palpable from the moment one steps inside. The pub's connection to the Pilgrim Fathers, who embarked on their historic voyage aboard the Mayflower ship from this very spot in 1620, adds a profound sense of heritage to the establishment.

The clientele is a diverse mix, ranging from history enthusiasts and local residents to tourists seeking an authentic British pub experience. The atmosphere is both cosy and inviting, with candlelit tables, wooden beams, and an open fire contributing to its rustic charm. The outside decked jetty offers stunning river views, making it an ideal spot to unwind and watch the sunset over the Thames.

While specific details about accessibility are limited, the pub welcomes dogs in the ground floor area and on the jetty, though not in the upstairs restaurant. This pet-friendly policy makes it a convenient stop for dog owners exploring the area.

Culinary offerings are a highlight, with the menu showcasing classic British dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The steamed fresh mussels and honey and rosemary baked camembert come highly recommended as starters. For mains, the pan-fried sea bass fillet and traditional roasts, such as beef sirloin and pork belly, have garnered praise. The pub also offers a selection of well-kept traditional ales and craft beers, ensuring there's a beverage to complement every meal.

In terms of value, The Mayflower Pub positions itself as "Happily Affordable," with starters around £7.50, mains between £15 and £22, and desserts approximately £6.95. This pricing, combined with the quality of food and service, offers good value for money.

Customer service is frequently lauded, with staff described as attentive and knowledgeable. One diner noted, "Our waiter effortlessly recommended a great wine and was attentive throughout our entire meal." Such feedback underscores the pub's commitment to providing a pleasant dining experience.

However, some areas for improvement have been identified. A few patrons have mentioned that certain dishes could benefit from more seasoning, and there have been occasional comments about the roast potatoes not meeting expectations. Addressing these concerns could further enhance the dining experience.

The surrounding area of Rotherhithe is steeped in history and offers several attractions worth exploring. The Brunel Museum, dedicated to the engineering feats of the Brunel family, is just a short walk away. Additionally, the Thames Path provides scenic views of the river, making it a pleasant route for a post-meal stroll.

The Mayflower Pub offers a unique blend of historical significance, charming ambiance, and quality British fare. Its riverside location, combined with attentive service and a diverse menu, makes it a noteworthy destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic London pub experience.