The Dickens Inn, St Katharine Docks 1984

Nestled on the edge of St Katharine Docks near Tower Bridge, the Dickens Inn is one of London’s most atmospheric pubs, steeped in history and maritime charm. Housed in a striking 18th-century timber-framed building, the structure originally served as a warehouse before being carefully moved and restored in the 1970s. It officially reopened in 1976 with the involvement of Cedric Charles Dickens, the great-grandson of Charles Dickens, from whom the pub takes its name.

With its distinctive wooden balconies and flower-adorned exterior, the Dickens Inn is a favourite for both locals and tourists. Inside, the pub spans three levels: a traditional tavern on the ground floor, a grill restaurant on the upper level serving seasonal British fare, and event spaces used for weddings and private hire.

Its location overlooking the marina makes it especially popular in the warmer months, when visitors spill out onto the terraces to enjoy drinks with a view. Though opinions on the food vary, few can deny the Dickens Inn’s visual appeal and unique position in one of central London’s most scenic corners. It remains a lively reminder of the city’s dockland past, repurposed for modern-day enjoyment.