The White Swan

You're standing right on the edge of the Thames here, which immediately puts The White Swan a cut above your average High Street boozer. The riverside location means you've got that rare London thing — actual breathing room and water views — without the pretension that usually comes attached. It's the kind of place where you'll find everyone from rugby fans heading to the stadium to couples lingering over a long lunch, and somehow it all works. The food's solid rather than fancy, the drinks list won't confuse you, and the whole operation feels like it actually cares about doing things properly.