The Salt Quay, Rotherhithe, SE16

This is a large modern riverside pub on two levels, I suspect the segmental arched windows are included to mimic the nearby riverside warehouses with the upper dark stained barge boarded exterior designed to suggest age. The large areas of exposed brickwork inside continue the theme of an old warehouse but overall for me it just doesn't work. It really is a huge barn of a place though and with boarded floors, high ceilings and a child friendly policy it makes for a loud and resonant interior. Thankfully you can escape to the large riverside terrace or first floor deck where excellent river views are available. A sign in the window indicates that a planning and licensing application has been made to extend the upper deck. The ground floor bar has three handpumps, two on, offering GK IPA and Abbot, sadly the third had a reversed clip for the infinitely superior St Austell Proper Job. Another bar serves upstairs but there are no handpumps here. Service was at best, perfunctory, why oh why when there are two staff is it that both go on walkabout serving food and collecting glasses at the same time? Food served, sports on TV, this pub will certainly suit some people but the overall feel is of a large bland and corporate barn. Given the premium site it occupies this is a bit of a shame, for me, the riverside views are the only redeeming feature.

Randomness Guide to London - Old Salt Quay entry

Randomness Guide to London - Old Salt Quay entry