Tucked away on a quiet cobbled street in Rotherhithe, the Mayflower Pub is one of London’s most atmospheric watering holes. It’s a place where history isn’t just framed on the walls but soaked into the very wooden beams, where centuries-old maritime tales swirl into your pint, and where you can quite literally drink in the past—preferably with a portion of fish and chips on the side.
With its dark-wood paneling, candlelit ambiance, and views over the Thames, the Mayflower feels like the kind of place where a mysterious figure in a tricorn hat might sidle up to you and whisper of buried treasure. But before we get too carried away with pirate fantasies, let’s delve into what makes this pub a true London gem.
The Mayflower and Its Pilgrim Past
The Mayflower Pub is named, of course, after the famous ship that carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620. But what many people don’t realise is that the journey actually began here in Rotherhithe. The Mayflower ship, captained by Christopher Jones, was moored close to where the pub stands today before setting off on its voyage to the New World.
It wasn’t the smoothest start. The ship first attempted to set sail with another vessel, the Speedwell, but the latter proved about as seaworthy as a colander and had to turn back. The Mayflower continued on alone, enduring a rough crossing that left the passengers (who were more religious idealists than seasoned sailors) wishing they had packed more ginger biscuits.
Christopher Jones himself was a local, and when he returned to England after delivering his human cargo to America, he retired to Rotherhithe, where he died in 1622. He was buried at St. Mary’s Church, a short walk from the pub, where you can still find a plaque in his honour.
A Pub Steeped in History (and Probably Ale)
While the Mayflower ship had its moment in 1620, the pub itself dates back to the 16th century, originally called the Shippe Inn. Given its location, it was a favourite haunt of sailors, merchants, and presumably the occasional dodgy smuggler looking for a discreet transaction over a tankard of ale.
In the 1700s, it was renamed the Mayflower, cementing its connection to the famous voyage. Over the centuries, it has changed hands, been renovated, and survived the Blitz, but it has never lost its old-world charm.
One quirky feature of the pub is that it flies both the British and American flags, a nod to its transatlantic legacy. It’s also the only pub in England licensed to sell US postage stamps, making it the ideal place to write a wistful postcard to your American friends while toasting their ancestors.
A Nautical Time Capsule
Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another era. The interior showcases dark wood beams, leaded stained-glass windows, and an array of nautical bric-a-brac, including items like a stuffed parrot and decorative rats climbing ceiling-mounted rigging. This mix of historical charm and eccentric maritime decor makes the pub feel like a time capsule—half traditional English inn, half seafarer’s hideaway.
By candlelight, with the sound of the Thames lapping outside, it’s easy to imagine the sailors who once drank here, swapping tales of high seas adventure and questionable navigation skills.
Ghostly Goings-On?
With a history spanning centuries, it’s no surprise that the Mayflower has a few ghost stories floating around. After all, any pub worth its salt (or its beer foam) in London has at least one spectral resident.
Some say you can hear the faint creaking of wooden planks late at night, as if a ghostly ship is mooring outside. Others claim to have seen shadowy figures moving around the upper floors. Given that Rotherhithe was once a hub of thieves, smugglers, and unfortunate souls who fell foul of the Thames, it’s easy to imagine a few spirits lingering.
Of course, this could also be explained by the strong selection of cask ales making people’s imaginations run wild.
The Mayflower Today
Nowadays, the Mayflower is a firm favourite among history buffs, locals, and those in search of a proper pub with character. Unlike many of London’s more touristy drinking spots, it has retained an authentic charm, offering log fires, low-beamed ceilings, and a menu brimming with classic British fare.
What to Eat and Drink
- Fish and chips – It would be almost criminal not to order this while gazing at the Thames.
- Pie of the Day – A rotating selection of hearty, flaky goodness, best paired with a pint of ale.
- Sunday Roast – If you find yourself here on a Sunday, the roast dinners are legendary.
- Cask Ales and Craft Beers – The selection is excellent, with local and guest ales frequently changing.
If you really want to lean into the history, you could order a rum-based drink, raising a glass to the sailors who once drank here (though let’s hope you have sturdier sea legs than they did).
How to Visit
The Mayflower is located at 117 Rotherhithe Street, London, SE16 4NF, just a short walk from Rotherhithe Overground station. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you could arrive by riverboat, docking at the nearby Greenland Pier. It feels fitting to arrive by water at a pub so steeped in nautical history.
The pub gets busy, especially at weekends, so if you’re planning to visit for food, booking ahead is wise. Otherwise, pop in, grab a pint, and take a moment to soak in the history—ideally while securing a prime spot by the roaring fire.
Why You Should Visit
If you love history, great beer, riverside views, and pubs that actually feel like proper pubs, the Mayflower should be high on your list. It’s one of those rare places in London where the past isn’t just something you read about—it’s something you can feel. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of the Pilgrims, pondering the ghosts of old sailors, or simply enjoying a well-poured pint, the Mayflower offers a unique and timeless drinking experience.
And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, the spirit of Christopher Jones is still lingering by the bar, waiting to set sail once more.
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