The Angel

Perched dramatically on the south bank of the River Thames in Bermondsey, The Angel is one of London’s most historic and legendary riverside taverns. Offering sweeping, uninterrupted views across the water toward Wapping, Tower Bridge, and the City skyline, our Grade II listed pub combines centuries of rich maritime history with the timeless, quiet hospitality of a classic Samuel Smith house.

Medieval Roots & Royal Neighbours

The story of the land where The Angel stands dates back over 600 years. In the 15th century, monks from nearby Bermondsey Abbey established an inn and guesthouse called The Salutation on or near this very spot to brew beer and serve pilgrims travelling along the Thames.

Directly opposite the pub lie the preserved stone ruins of the Moated Manor House of King Edward III, built around 1353. Used by the medieval monarch as a royal retreat for falconry and river sports, these ancient remains serve as a reminder of the area’s royal heritage.

Smugglers, Pirates & Samuel Pepys

By the 17th century, the site had transitioned into The Angel. Built partially on wooden stilts over the Thames marshes, its position directly on the water made it a bustling, colorful hub for river life—though not always an entirely law-abiding one.

Throughout the 1600s and 1700s, the pub was a infamous haunt for Thames river pirates, smugglers, sailors, and press gangs. Legend has it that local smugglers made use of trapdoors in the lower floorboards to haul illicit cargo directly out of boats moored beneath the building at high tide.

Despite its gritty reputation, The Angel attracted a host of notable historical figures:

Samuel Pepys: The famed 17th-century diarist frequently visited the tavern, affectionately referring to it in his writings as “the famous Angel.”
The Mayflower & Captain Cook: Christopher Jones, captain of The Mayflower, is said to have hired crew members here prior to setting sail for the New World. Over a century later, Captain James Cook reportedly planned his voyage to Australia from the tavern.
“Hanging” Judge Jeffreys: The notorious 17th-century judge was said to sit in the upper rooms of the pub, watching executions taking place directly across the river at Execution Dock in Wapping.

Nineteenth-Century Elegance & Turner’s Canvas

The current brick building dates from the 1830s, retaining original architectural elements from earlier 17th-century structures. Featuring multi-coloured London stock brick, traditional wooden sash windows, and its famous weatherboarded balcony cantilevered over the water, the pub became a iconic fixture of the industrial Victorian Thames.

As London changed, the pub’s striking riverside position attracted prominent British artists. J.M.W. Turner spent time at The Angel taking in the river views; local tradition holds that he painted his celebrated masterpiece, The Fighting Temeraire (1838), either from the pub’s upper balcony or the adjacent waterfront park. In later years, artists like James Abbott McNeill Whistler and Augustus John also frequented the pub to capture the light on the Thames.

Modern Restoration by Samuel Smith

As the surrounding docks closed and Bermondsey transformed through the late 20th century, The Angel found itself standing in “splendid isolation”—one of the few original historic structures to survive the blitz and subsequent riverside redevelopments.

Acquired by the Samuel Smith Old Brewery, the pub underwent a comprehensive, sensitive restoration to preserve its unique architectural heritage. Modern clutter was removed, wooden panelling was carefully conserved, and the building was restored to showcase its traditional multi-room layout and historic riverside balcony.

Visit Us Today

Today, The Angel stands as one of South London’s finest traditional pubs:

Unrivalled Thames Views: Step onto our historic wooden rear balcony or sit by the upper sash windows for panoramic views of Tower Bridge and the London skyline.
A Sanctuary of Conversation: In line with Samuel Smith traditions, we maintain a calm, digital-free atmosphere—no loud TV screens, slot machines, or background music—allowing the gentle lap of the river and warm conversation to take center stage.
Authentic Heritage Dining & Drinks: Enjoy our selection of Samuel Smith’s traditional cask ales, stout, fruit beers, and spirits alongside classic, hearty pub food served upstairs and down.

Whether you’re walking the Thames Path, exploring medieval history, or searching for London’s best river view with a cold pint, step inside and enjoy a drink where history flows.