The White Cross Pub in Richmond: London’s Quirkiest Flood-Prone Waterside Pub
Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Thames, The White Cross in Richmond is a true gem among London’s riverside pubs. With its stunning views, cozy atmosphere, and inviting terrace, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. But there’s one thing that sets this historic watering hole apart from other pubs in the city: it regularly floods. Yes, you read that right—the White Cross isn’t just any riverside pub. It’s a pub where the river sometimes rises and takes over, transforming the outdoor seating area into a temporary lagoon. It’s quirky, it’s inconvenient, and yet, it’s all part of the charm.
A Pub on the Edge
The White Cross has been a fixture in Richmond for centuries. Originally a coaching inn, it has long served as a place to relax, drink, and enjoy the great views across the Thames. Its location is truly iconic: the pub’s outdoor terrace sits right on the river’s edge, providing some of the best riverside views in London. The setting could not be more idyllic—until, of course, the tide comes in.
Richmond is an area that’s no stranger to the rhythms of the Thames. The river has shaped the town for centuries, from its days as a royal retreat to its more recent transformation into a charming suburban enclave. But while the Thames provides beauty and tranquillity, it also brings a little chaos. The White Cross is smack dab in the middle of the river’s tidal reach, which means it’s regularly subject to flooding, particularly during high tides or after heavy rain.
The River Rises: Flooding at The White Cross
The White Cross’s flood-prone nature is no secret. The pub’s outdoor terrace, which is usually filled with people sipping pints and enjoying classic British pub fare, is often the first area to be overtaken by water. As the Thames swells during high tide, the river slowly creeps up toward the pub’s iconic wooden deck, which is perched right on the riverbank.
During particularly high tides, the outdoor tables can end up surrounded by water, turning the pub’s riverside seating into something of a “floating” experience. It’s a dramatic sight, especially during winter months when the Thames is at its most unpredictable. The flooding often leaves patrons laughing as they adjust to the unusual situation—sometimes perched on higher platforms to keep their feet dry, other times simply enjoying the spectacle of the river creeping closer to their pints.
But it’s not just a casual trickle of water. When the river really decides to rise, the lower levels of the pub—including the outdoor seating area—can be submerged, and a few brave souls may find themselves dining in what looks like a mini version of Venice. Of course, the pub staff are well-prepared for these occasional waterlogged scenarios. With the help of flood barriers, drainage systems, and plenty of sandbags, The White Cross manages to stay open during these events, even if a little wet underfoot.
A Historical Riverside Favorite
The White Cross has been around for a long time—since the 18th century, in fact. Originally a coaching inn serving travelers making their way along the Thames, the pub’s long history is evident in its old-world charm. The building itself is a beautiful reminder of Richmond’s past, and the riverfront location is simply one of the most picturesque in all of London. This makes the occasional flooding an interesting quirk rather than a dealbreaker. After all, what could be more iconic than enjoying a pint while the Thames flows right by—or even through—your pub?
As a pub that sits directly on the banks of the Thames, it’s surrounded by history. Richmond, once a favored location for royalty, still retains much of its historical charm, and The White Cross is no exception. Its location means that patrons can enjoy views of Richmond Bridge, the towpath, and the famous riverside park, while the pub itself remains a cozy, welcoming spot for both regulars and newcomers.
Flooding: Part of the Pub’s Unique Charm
The flooding, though inconvenient, has become part of The White Cross’s charm. Rather than a hassle, it adds to the experience. Locals have learned to embrace it. The sight of tables surrounded by water or patrons being forced to relocate a few feet higher on the terrace is just another piece of the unique character of this riverside treasure.
In fact, many regulars almost look forward to the floods. They’ve become part of the pub’s story—a quirky anecdote that makes drinking at The White Cross more of an experience than just an afternoon pint. There’s a certain sense of adventure in drinking beer on a terrace that’s suddenly in danger of becoming part of the river. And on a busy weekend afternoon, it’s not uncommon to see families, tourists, and regulars taking photos of the high-water mark, the water lapping at the tables as if it were all part of the pub’s charm.
When it’s not flooding, the outdoor seating area is a popular place to enjoy classic pub food, with fresh fish and chips, hearty pies, and a pint of local ale. Whether you’re taking in the views on a sunny day or braving the floodwaters with a beer in hand, there’s no better place to enjoy a drink along the Thames.
How the Pub Handles the Flooding
As one might expect, flooding isn’t a daily occurrence, but it’s frequent enough that The White Cross staff have developed effective strategies to deal with it. Flood barriers, raised platforms, and a robust drainage system help the pub manage when the river decides to rise. It’s not uncommon to see staff frantically placing sandbags or closing off flooded sections during high tide.
On average the pub floods twice a month.
On the rare occasion that the floodwaters are particularly severe, the pub may close temporarily—but this is a short-term solution. The pub generally remains open during the flood events, with patrons still able to enjoy their drinks while elevated above the river’s reach. The White Cross has become adept at balancing the natural drama of flooding with the comfort of its guests, and its commitment to staying open during these times adds to its legendary status.
A Pub with Character
In the world of London pubs, The White Cross in Richmond stands out—not just for its history or stunning riverside location, but for its very real, very regular flooding problem. But this flooding is far from a deterrent; in fact, it’s part of what makes The White Cross so beloved. It’s a pub that embraces its location and its quirks, where patrons can raise a glass and watch the Thames rise—and sometimes flood over—right beneath their feet.
Whether it’s on a sunny day with clear skies or during one of those memorable high tides when the pub practically becomes a part of the river, The White Cross is a must-visit. Flooding or not, it’s one of London’s most unique pubs, a perfect blend of history, character, and just a little bit of adventure.
So, next time you’re in Richmond, don’t let a little water stop you—head down to The White Cross for a pint, and you might just find yourself raising your glass above the floodwaters.
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