Prospect of Whitby: London's Oldest Riverside Pub with a Storied Past

Step into London’s oldest riverside pub, where centuries of maritime history, pirate tales, and royal visits blend with stunning Thames views.

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Prospect of Whitby

The Prospect of Whitby, located at 57 Wapping Wall in London, is reputedly the oldest riverside tavern on the Thames, dating back to around 1520. Once known as The Pelican and later The Devil’s Tavern, it has a rich history tied to sailors, smugglers, pirates, and even royal visitors. The pub retains historic features like a 400-year-old stone floor and a pewter-topped bar, with atmospheric nautical decor and a famous hanging noose referencing nearby Execution Dock.

A brief summary to Prospect of Whitby

57 Wapping Wall, London, E1W 3SH, GB
+442074811095
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 11 am-11 pm
Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
Thursday 11 am-11 pm
Friday 11 am-11 pm
Saturday 11 am-11 pm
Sunday 12 pm-10 pm

Local tips

Visit the upstairs Smugglers Bar to experience the pub’s authentic nautical atmosphere filled with historic ship masts and ropes.
Take time to enjoy the outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames, especially on warm days for scenic river views.
Explore the pub’s connection to Execution Dock by observing the hanging noose on the balcony, a reminder of its grim past.
Join one of the pub’s ghost tours or events to delve into its haunted history and hear stories of infamous patrons.
Try traditional English ales and classic pub dishes to complement the historic ambiance.

Getting There

Public Transport

From central London, take the London Underground Hammersmith & City or District line to Whitechapel station, then transfer to the London Overground towards Wapping. The journey typically takes 30–40 minutes. From Wapping station, it is a 5-minute walk to the pub. Oyster/contactless cards are accepted; fares range from £2.50 to £4.50 depending on zones and time.
Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from central London to Prospect of Whitby usually takes 20–35 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £15 and £25. Note that parking near the pub is limited and the area is best accessed on foot from public transport.
Walking

For those staying nearby in East London, a pleasant 15–30 minute walk along the Thames Path offers scenic views and easy terrain. The route is accessible but may be slippery in wet weather.

Prospect of Whitby location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Prospect of Whitby

A Historic Riverside Tavern Steeped in Maritime Lore

The Prospect of Whitby stands on the northern bank of the River Thames in Wapping, East London, claiming a heritage that stretches back to around 1520. Originally known as The Pelican, and later nicknamed The Devil’s Tavern due to its dubious clientele, this pub was a favored haunt for sailors, smugglers, pirates, and river thieves. Its proximity to the river made it a hub for illicit trade and darker dealings, with the original 400-year-old stone floor still preserved beneath its modernized interiors. The pub’s name was adopted in the early 18th century after a fire destroyed the original building, inspired by a collier ship called The Prospect of Whitby, which regularly moored nearby bringing coal from Newcastle upon Tyne.

Architecture and Atmosphere Reflecting Centuries of History

The current building features a 19th-century facade with 18th-century panelling inside, blending historic charm with Victorian rebuilding efforts. The interior is notable for its pewter-topped bar, creaky wooden floors, and an eclectic collection of maritime artifacts including ship masts, ropes, pistols, and skulls. The upstairs Smugglers Bar offers an intimate space filled with nautical relics, evoking an atmosphere of bygone river life. Outside, the pub’s terrace provides stunning views over the Thames, a scene that captivated artists like J.M.W. Turner and James Abbott McNeill Whistler.

Dark Tales of Piracy and Justice

The Prospect of Whitby’s riverside location is closely linked to the grim history of Execution Dock, where pirates and river criminals were hanged and left for the tides to wash over their bodies as a warning. A noose hanging from the pub’s balcony commemorates this macabre past. The notorious 17th-century judge George Jeffreys, known as the Hanging Judge, reputedly frequented the pub when it was called The Devil’s Tavern, adding to its chilling legacy. The pub’s walls are said to be haunted by ghosts including Mary Frith (Moll Cutpurse) and Jeffreys himself, with ghost tours offered to visitors intrigued by its eerie history.

A Cultural Icon and Celebrity Haunt

Over the centuries, the Prospect of Whitby has welcomed a diverse clientele from all walks of life. Literary figures such as Charles Dickens and Samuel Pepys drank here, as did Princess Margaret and Prince Rainier III of Monaco. The pub has appeared in popular culture, including the BBC series Whitechapel and the film The Old Guard. Its unique blend of historic ambiance and riverside charm continues to attract locals and tourists alike, making it a living museum of London’s maritime and social history.

Modern-Day Experience and Offerings

Today, the Prospect of Whitby operates as a Greene King pub offering a moderate price range for food and drink. Visitors can enjoy traditional ales and classic pub fare while soaking up the views from the outdoor terrace. The pub maintains its historic character with original fixtures and memorabilia, providing a cozy yet atmospheric setting. Despite its age and storied past, it remains a lively social hub in the Wapping area, balancing heritage with contemporary pub culture.

Exploring the Riverside and Beyond

The pub’s location along the Thames Path makes it an excellent stop for those exploring London’s historic docklands and riverside walks. Its proximity to Wapping Old Stairs and the sites associated with river trade and justice offers visitors a tangible connection to London’s maritime past. Whether interested in history, ghost stories, or simply a scenic spot for a pint, the Prospect of Whitby offers a uniquely immersive experience.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Execution Dock

0.0 km

A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.

King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)

0.6 km

Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.

The Captain Kidd

0.6 km

Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.

Execution Dock House

0.8 km

Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.

St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)

1.6 km

Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.

St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)

Roman Wall of Londinium

1.7 km

Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.

London Wall

1.8 km

Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.

Wakefield Tower

1.8 km

Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.

Tower Hill Memorial

1.9 km

Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.

1 Tower Hl Ter

1.9 km

Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.

Brick Lane Mosque

2.0 km

A 280-year architectural chronicle of immigrant faith, where Huguenots, Jews, and Bangladeshis have each found spiritual sanctuary.

Princelet St

2.0 km

Discover the historical beauty of Princelet Street in London, a notable street rich in culture and architectural charm, perfect for every traveler.

Mitre Square

2.0 km

Mitre Square: A serene retreat in London’s financial district, blending rich history with beautiful landscapes for an unforgettable city experience.

St Olave's Church, Hart Street

2.0 km

Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.

Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street

2.1 km

Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.

Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street

Unmissable attractions to see

Shadwell Basin

0.1 km

Historic London dock transformed into a vibrant waterside community hub for leisure, water sports, and scenic urban living.

Shadwell Basin

0.4 km

Historic London dock turned vibrant waterside community offering scenic walks, water sports, and rich maritime heritage.

Brunel Museum

0.6 km

Discover the pioneering Thames Tunnel and Brunel family legacy in London’s historic Engine House museum.

St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe

0.7 km

An 18th-century riverside church in Rotherhithe with deep maritime roots and Mayflower connections, offering quiet reflection and centuries of history by the Thames.

Cable Street Mural

0.7 km

A vivid, monumental mural in East London commemorating the 1936 Battle of Cable Street and the community’s defiant stand against fascism.

Thames River Police Museum

0.7 km

Explore the historic Thames River Police Museum in Wapping, showcasing over 200 years of pioneering river policing on London’s iconic Thames.

Ratcliff Beach

0.7 km

Discover Ratcliff Beach, a hidden pebble shore on the Thames with stunning Canary Wharf views and rich maritime history in East London.

Ornamental Canal

0.8 km

A serene 1.2 km canal in Wapping preserving London's dockland heritage with historic walls, art, and tranquil waterside walks.

Jack The Ripper Museum

1.2 km

Explore the chilling history of Victorian London's infamous Jack the Ripper murders in a hauntingly immersive museum experience.

St Katharine Docks Marina

1.4 km

Explore the vibrant St Katharine Docks Marina, a picturesque destination in London offering dining, shopping, and stunning riverside views.

The Blind Beggar

1.5 km

Historic East End pub famed for gangster lore, medieval legend, and a vibrant community spirit in Whitechapel, London.

St Anne's Church, Limehouse

1.5 km

Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.

Whitechapel Bell Foundry

1.6 km

Discover the historic Whitechapel Bell Foundry, London's legendary birthplace of iconic bells like Big Ben and the Liberty Bell.

Altab Ali Park

1.6 km

A historic East London park honoring Altab Ali’s legacy, blending cultural heritage, community activism, and peaceful green space.

Shad Thames

1.6 km

Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.

Essential places to dine

La Dame de Pic London

1.9 km

Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.

Restaurant Story

1.9 km

Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.

Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant

1.9 km

Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.

Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant

1.9 km

Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.

14 Hills

2.1 km

Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.

Nomadic community

2.2 km

A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.

Marugame Udon Middlesex Street

2.2 km

Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.

Lyle's

2.6 km

Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.

Da Terra Restaurant

2.6 km

Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.

Billingsgate Market

2.7 km

Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.

George

2.7 km

Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.

Brawn

2.8 km

Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.

The Clove Club

3.0 km

Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.

Nest Restaurant Old Street

3.0 km

Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.

Madison

3.2 km

Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.

Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.

Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.

The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch

Nightclubs & after hour spots

E1

0.7 km

Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.

The Steel Yard

2.7 km

Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.

Club 701

2.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.

The Hoxton Pony

2.9 km

Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.

Trafik

3.0 km

Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.

Basing House - Shoreditch

3.1 km

An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.

XOYO LONDON

3.2 km

Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.

Ministry of Sound

3.5 km

London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.

(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub

3.5 km

Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!

The Venue

3.6 km

A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.

Corsica Studios

3.6 km

Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.

The Hatch Club

3.7 km

A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.

American Express Invites Lounge

3.8 km

A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.

London Best Night Clubs

4.0 km

Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.

The Bunker

4.0 km

A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Prospect of Whitby: London's Oldest Riverside Pub with a Storied Past

A brief summary to Prospect of Whitby

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Transport

Taxi or Rideshare

Walking

Prospect of Whitby location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Prospect of Whitby

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Prospect of Whitby

A Historic Riverside Tavern Steeped in Maritime Lore

Architecture and Atmosphere Reflecting Centuries of History

Dark Tales of Piracy and Justice

A Cultural Icon and Celebrity Haunt

Modern-Day Experience and Offerings

Exploring the Riverside and Beyond

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Execution Dock

King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)

The Captain Kidd

Execution Dock House

St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)

Roman Wall of Londinium

London Wall

Wakefield Tower

Tower Hill Memorial

1 Tower Hl Ter

Brick Lane Mosque

Princelet St

Mitre Square

St Olave's Church, Hart Street

Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street

Unmissable attractions to see

Shadwell Basin

Shadwell Basin

Brunel Museum

St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe

Cable Street Mural

Thames River Police Museum

Ratcliff Beach

Ornamental Canal

Jack The Ripper Museum

St Katharine Docks Marina

The Blind Beggar

St Anne's Church, Limehouse

Whitechapel Bell Foundry

Altab Ali Park

Shad Thames

Essential places to dine

La Dame de Pic London

Restaurant Story

Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant

14 Hills

Nomadic community

Marugame Udon Middlesex Street

Lyle's

Da Terra Restaurant

Billingsgate Market

George

Brawn

The Clove Club

Nest Restaurant Old Street

Madison

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Tower of London Shop

Traders Gate

Fashion St

Petticoat Lane Market

Middlesex Textiles

Backyard Market

Commercial St

The Brick Lane Vintage Market

DPUS Designer Outlet

The Truman Brewery Markets

Sclater Street Market