The Dove, Hammersmith: London's Historic Riverside Pub with the Smallest Bar

Historic Thameside pub with Britain’s smallest bar, literary legends, royal tales, and scenic riverside views in Hammersmith.

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The Dove, Hammersmith

Nestled on the banks of the River Thames in Hammersmith, The Dove is one of London’s most historic pubs, boasting a legacy dating back to the 17th century. Famous for housing Britain’s smallest bar room—recognized by Guinness World Records—and for its literary and royal connections, this charming riverside tavern offers traditional ales, hearty pub food, and stunning views of the Thames, including the annual Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race.

A brief summary to The Dove, Hammersmith

19 Upper Mall, London, W6 9TA, GB
+442087489474
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
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

Arrive early or on weekdays to secure a spot inside the tiny bar room, as it accommodates only a few patrons at a time.
Visit during the annual Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race for a unique riverside viewing experience from the pub’s terrace.
Explore the pub’s walls to discover portraits and memorabilia of famous visitors and literary connections.
Try traditional Fuller’s ales paired with seasonal British pub classics for an authentic local taste.
Look for the brass plaque inside marking the historic flood level of 1928—a fascinating piece of the pub’s story.

Getting There

London Underground

Take the District Line to Ravenscourt Park station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk from The Dove. The route is flat and accessible, with frequent trains running every 5-10 minutes. No fare surcharge applies beyond standard London Underground pricing.
Bus

Bus routes 190 and 267 serve stops near Upper Mall, with a 5-10 minute walk to The Dove. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment; fares are moderate and consistent with London bus pricing.
Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at 19 Upper Mall. Travel time varies from 15 to 30 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £10-£20.
Walking

If staying nearby in Hammersmith, walking to The Dove offers a pleasant riverside stroll. The terrain is flat and suitable for all fitness levels. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.

The Dove, Hammersmith location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about The Dove, Hammersmith

A Storied Riverside Landmark with Deep Historical Roots

The Dove stands proudly at 19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, a site that has hosted a public house since at least the 17th century. While the current building dates from the 18th century, the location’s history is steeped in rich tales and legends. It is reputed that King Charles II once dined here with his mistress Nell Gwynne, and the pub is said to be where the Scottish poet James Thomson composed the iconic 1740 patriotic song "Rule, Britannia!". The establishment has also been linked to literary figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Dylan Thomas, and A.P. Herbert, who immortalized it as "The Pigeons" in his novel "The Water Gipsies". The pub’s name itself derives from the biblical dove that returned to Noah’s Ark with an olive branch, symbolizing hope and renewal.

The Smallest Bar Room in Britain: A Guinness World Record

One of The Dove’s most distinctive features is its tiny bar room, officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the smallest in Britain, measuring just 4 feet 2 inches by 7 feet 10 inches. This minuscule space was reportedly built to meet licensing requirements that demanded two bars for a full liquor license, although the exact origins of this story remain somewhat anecdotal. Today, this tiny bar remains in use, tucked away near the pub’s entrance, offering an intimate and quirky experience for patrons. The pub’s interior retains a traditional woody charm with low ceilings, creaking floors, and cozy nooks that evoke the feel of a riverside boat cabin.

A Hub for Literary and Artistic Heritage

The Dove has inspired and hosted many creatives over the centuries. Thomas James Cobden-Sanderson, founder of the Doves Bindery and Doves Press, named his ventures after this very pub. The story of the "Doves Type"—a famous typeface thrown into the Thames by Cobden-Sanderson in a dramatic feud—adds a layer of intrigue to the pub’s cultural legacy. The walls of The Dove are adorned with portraits, prints, and memorabilia commemorating its notable visitors, making it a living museum of London’s artistic and literary history.

A Vibrant Local Atmosphere and Culinary Offerings

Despite its historic significance, The Dove remains a thriving local pub beloved by residents and visitors alike. Owned by Fuller's since 1796, it offers a well-curated selection of traditional ales and fine wines alongside a menu of classic British pub dishes with a seasonal twist. The riverside terrace, flower-bedecked and overlooking the Thames, provides a scenic spot for enjoying a pint, especially during the annual Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge universities, when the pub becomes a prime vantage point.

The Unique Experience of Visiting The Dove

Visiting The Dove is like stepping back in time while still enjoying the comforts of a lively modern pub. Its intimate size, historic ambiance, and riverside setting create a distinctive charm. The brass plaque inside marks the height of the great flood of 1928, reminding visitors of the pub’s resilience through centuries of change. Whether savoring a quiet pint in the snug bar or basking in the sun on the terrace, guests become part of a centuries-old tradition of conviviality and culture on the Thames.

Preservation and Legacy

The Dove is a Grade II-listed building, ensuring its preservation as one of London's most characterful and historically significant pubs. Its continued operation as a welcoming local spot, combined with its rich tapestry of stories and connections, makes it a must-visit for those seeking to experience a quintessential slice of London's riverside heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hammersmith Bridge

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Kensington War Memorial

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St Peter's Church, Notting Hill

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George Orwell Plaque

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The Castle

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Olympia Events

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The Dove, Hammersmith: London's Historic Riverside Pub with the Smallest Bar

A brief summary to The Dove, Hammersmith

Local tips

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

Getting There

London Underground

Bus

Taxi or Rideshare

Walking

The Dove, Hammersmith location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Dove, Hammersmith

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Dove, Hammersmith

A Storied Riverside Landmark with Deep Historical Roots

The Smallest Bar Room in Britain: A Guinness World Record

A Hub for Literary and Artistic Heritage

A Vibrant Local Atmosphere and Culinary Offerings

The Unique Experience of Visiting The Dove

Preservation and Legacy

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