The Dove, Hammersmith: London's Historic Riverside Pub with a Guinness Record

Historic riverside pub in Hammersmith with Britain's smallest bar and a rich legacy of poets, royalty, and traditional ales.

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The Dove, Hammersmith

The Dove is a Grade II listed historic pub located at 19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, London. Dating back to the 17th century, it is famed for its tiny bar room—the smallest in Britain—and its rich cultural heritage, including connections to poets, royalty, and literary figures. With charming riverside views over the Thames, traditional ales, and a cozy atmosphere, The Dove remains a beloved local landmark blending history and conviviality.

A brief summary to The Dove, Hammersmith

19 Upper Mall, London, W6 9TA, GB
+442087489474
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 pm-11 pm
Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
Friday 12 pm-11 pm
Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm

Local tips

Try to visit on a sunny afternoon to enjoy the riverside terrace overlooking the Thames.
Don’t miss stepping into the tiny Guinness World Record-holding bar room for a unique experience.
Sample Fuller’s ales, the pub’s traditional house brews, paired with seasonal pub classics.
Visit during the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race for prime riverside views and lively atmosphere.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the London Underground District Line to Hammersmith Station, then a 10-15 minute walk along the Thames Path to 19 Upper Mall. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the walk offers scenic riverside views. No additional fares beyond the Tube ticket apply.
Bus

Bus routes 190, 267, and 283 stop near Hammersmith Broadway, approximately a 12-minute walk from The Dove. Buses run frequently throughout the day with standard London bus fares applying. The route offers a convenient option if you prefer not to walk from the Tube.
Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from central London to The Dove takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £15-£25. Note that parking near the pub is limited and not recommended.

The Dove, Hammersmith location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Dove, Hammersmith

An Enduring Riverside Landmark with Deep Historical Roots

The Dove stands on the banks of the River Thames in Hammersmith, London, at 19 Upper Mall. This Grade II listed public house traces its origins back to the 17th century, with the current building dating from the 18th century. Historical records suggest a drinking establishment has occupied this site since the early 1600s, initially as a coffee house before evolving into a tavern. The pub's riverside location has long made it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike, offering scenic views and a connection to London's rich river culture.

Unique Architecture and the World’s Smallest Bar Room

One of The Dove’s most distinctive features is its famously tiny bar room, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the smallest in Britain. This snug, measuring just over 4 by 7 feet, was reportedly created to meet licensing requirements for a full spirits license by adding a second bar room in the early 20th century. The cramped space, with its matchboarded counter and fixed benches, remains in use today, adding to the pub’s quirky charm. The building itself retains much of its historic character, with low ceilings, creaking beams, and a layout that feels more like a boat cabin than a typical London pub.

Rich Cultural and Literary Associations

The Dove has inspired and hosted many notable figures throughout its history. Poet James Thomson is said to have composed the lyrics to “Rule, Britannia!” within its walls, while King Charles II reportedly courted his mistress Nell Gwynne here. The pub also features in literature, notably in A.P. Herbert’s novel "The Water Gypsies," where it appears under the pseudonym “The Pigeons.” These stories, whether fully verified or part of local lore, contribute to the pub’s atmospheric allure and sense of continuity with London’s cultural past.

A Thriving Local Hub with Traditional Fare and Atmosphere

Today, The Dove continues to serve as a vibrant local pub, owned by Fuller's since 1796. It offers a selection of traditional ales, including Fuller’s renowned brews, alongside a menu of elevated pub classics with seasonal ingredients. The interior’s cozy nooks and subdued lighting create an inviting space for conversation and relaxation, while the riverside terrace provides a scenic spot to enjoy the Thames, especially during events like the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race.

Preservation and Legacy in a Modern City

As a Grade II listed building, The Dove is protected for its architectural and historic significance, preserving its unique character amidst London’s evolving urban landscape. Its connection to the nearby Doves Press and the story of the lost Doves Typeface—thrown into the Thames by bookbinder Thomas James Cobden-Sanderson—adds an intriguing layer of artistic heritage. Visitors can appreciate not only the pub’s convivial atmosphere but also its place in the broader narrative of London’s creative and social history.

Atmosphere and Experience by the Thames

Whether seated inside the snug bar or outside on the terrace overlooking the river, The Dove offers a quintessentially English pub experience steeped in history. The gentle sounds of the Thames, the scent of wood and ale, and the sight of historic prints and portraits lining the walls all combine to create a timeless ambiance. It is a place where the past is palpably present, inviting visitors to linger over a pint and soak in the stories embedded in its walls.

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The Dove, Hammersmith: London's Historic Riverside Pub with a Guinness Record

A brief summary to The Dove, Hammersmith

Local tips

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

Getting There

Public Transport

Bus

Taxi or Rideshare

The Dove, Hammersmith location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Dove, Hammersmith

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Book tours with entry

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Discover more about The Dove, Hammersmith

An Enduring Riverside Landmark with Deep Historical Roots

Unique Architecture and the World’s Smallest Bar Room

Rich Cultural and Literary Associations

A Thriving Local Hub with Traditional Fare and Atmosphere

Preservation and Legacy in a Modern City

Atmosphere and Experience by the Thames

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hammersmith Bridge

Mr Mathias Winkler

Queen Victoria Monument

Howard Staunton Blue Plaque

Kensington War Memorial

142 Cromwell Rd

St Peter's Church, Notting Hill

George Orwell Plaque

The Castle

Kensington Palace

All Saints' Church, Notting Hill

The Tabernacle

Queen Victoria Statue

Notting Hill House of Colors

St Augustine's Church

Unmissable attractions to see

The William Morris Society

DNA VR

Premium Tours

Hogarth's House

Chiswick House and Gardens

Olympic Studios

Bush Hall

Olympia Events

Christ Church Turnham Green

Westfield London

Turnham Green

KidZania London

Upside Down House - Westfield White City

Leighton House

The Tower House

Essential places to dine

Il Portico

The Ladbroke Arms

The Ivy Kensington Brasserie

Akira Restaurant at Japan House London

Dishoom Kensington

Alexandrie Restaurant

Core by Clare Smyth

Grato

Gold

Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove

Zuaya London

Ci Tua Osteria Romana

Osteria Napoletana

Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington

La mia Mamma Notting Hill

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The London Heritage

Octavia Foundation - Kensington

the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop

the Design Museum Shop

Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street

Jigsaw

Good

Paul Smith - Notting Hill

London Souvenir Kensington

Notting hill store

Portobello Gifts Shop London