London Public Houses (6)

 The Anchor

34 Park Street, Bank End, Southwark, London SE1 9EF

Tel :020 7407 1577

"This historic pub, on the south bank of the Thames, is a favourite with tourists. It has several bars, a restaurant and roof terrace, both of which have wonderful views across the Thames to the City, and a large seated area on the riverbank. A recent refurbishment has added a fish and chip shop; the oldest and most atmospheric part of the building with its low beams, exposed brickwork and open fireplaces, has been converted into a tea rooms. Not open to the public, but available for functions, is the beautiful Shakespeare Room, which is clad in mellow 18th century pine panelling.

The Anchor was rebuilt in 1676 after fire devastated the area. The pub's original structure has been added-to over the centuries, creating a maze of odd little beamed rooms. One is named after Samuel Johnson, the lexicographer and writer, who drank here regularly and was a friend of the Thrale's who owned the pub and the phenominally successful Anchor porter brewery, which when offered for sale Johnson said 'We are not here to sell a parcel of boilers and vats, but the potentiality of growing rich beyond the dreams of avarice'. A copy of Johnson's dictionary is on display."