The Dove, Hammersmith, W6

Unchanged since my last visit a year or so ago. It oozes history from every nook and cranny of its dark wooden interior. It has what is claimed to be the smallest bar anywhere, on the right as you go in the pub – but I have never been in it as there have always been a couple of drinkers already in there, and three would definitely be a crowd! Excellent views of the river from the terrace, and superb Fullers ales make this a “must visit” pub on any visit to the area. Nonetheless, for some reason on which I cannot put my finger, I find this pub a bit pretentious. The food's not cheap, but it does not pretend to be a backstreet boozer – so you “pays yer money and takes yer choice”! But on the whole I really do like this pub, and would recommend it.

Lovely old riverside pub that seems to ooze history. Low ceilings, wooden beams etc, you enter to a small room with the bar to the right. Further right is a tiny snug and 2/3 people and this is full. From the bar area up a few steps, minding ones head, to a rear drinking area then a small conservatory with a rather sad looking vine growing over the roof, although it is January. Beyond is the terrace with good river views and with another area accessed via a cast iron staircase. The bar area has a few photographs of the historical locale plus some rowing 8's. Well kept Fullers, brim full pints, Pride, ESB, Chiswick and Discovery. A worthy stop in the area or on a riverside stroll.

Over the past 5 years I've spent quite a few Friday afternoons in the Dove and I have always left in a better mood than I was when I walked in. I think that the staff have improved since my first ever visit and the drink is still of a good standard. As afternoon turns into evening it can get a little hair raising negotiating all of the stairs to the back off the pub and avoiding the bustling waitresses with plates of food, but it keeps you on your toes. This is definitely the best pub that I have been into on the North bank of the Thames between Hammersmith and Kew Bridge.

Very old and fairly small Thameside pub, The bar which must be one of the smallest in the London area,serves the full range of Fuller's beers.A small flight of stairs leads to a back drinking/dining area and then to an outside terrace overlooking the Thames River.Very pleasant on a summers day.