Captain Kidd

There's something deliciously rebellious about sipping a pint at the Captain Kidd in London, a pub named after one of history's most notorious pirates who met his fate at the nearby Execution Dock. Perched right on the Thames in Wapping, this maritime marvel serves up spectacular river views alongside your chosen poison, making it feel less like your average London watering hole and more like you've stumbled onto the set of a particularly cozy pirate film.

The moment you step through the door, you're transported to a world where old London mingles with nautical charm. Dark wooden beams stretch across the ceiling like ship's timbers, while brass fittings gleam in the warm light. It's the kind of place where you half expect to see a grizzled sea captain nursing a rum in the corner, but instead, you'll find an eclectic mix of locals, curious tourists, and after-work crews seeking refuge from the city's chaos.

What really sets the Captain Kidd apart from other Thames-side establishments is its spectacular outdoor terrace. This isn't just any riverside seating area – it's a front-row ticket to London's maritime theater. Container ships glide past like gentle giants, while smaller vessels dart between them like water striders. On sunny days (yes, London does have them), the terrace becomes prime real estate, with savvy patrons claiming their spots faster than you can say "another round, please."

Inside, the pub's affordable drinks menu features Samuel Smith's brewery offerings, a Yorkshire institution known for its traditional brewing methods and reasonable prices. The fruit beers have developed something of a cult following among regulars, and the classic ales will please even the most discerning beer enthusiast without wreaking havoc on your wallet. It's refreshing to find a riverside London pub where you won't need to take out a small loan to enjoy a few rounds.

The atmosphere shifts with the tide throughout the day. Afternoons are peaceful, perfect for losing yourself in a book or having a heart-to-heart with an old friend. As evening approaches, the energy rises like the Thames at high water, with the venue filling up with a comfortable buzz of conversation and clinking glasses. The pub's dog-friendly policy adds another layer of charm – there's nothing quite like watching a proud pup parent trying to keep their four-legged friend from begging for chips from neighboring tables.

Speaking of food, here's where local knowledge comes in handy. While the Captain Kidd offers pub grub, the real draw is the drinking experience and those magnificent views. Save your appetite for one of Wapping's excellent restaurants and focus instead on what this place does best – providing a authentic London pub experience with a side of maritime history.

Getting to the Captain Kidd is part of the adventure. Tucked away along Wapping Wall, it's a short walk from Wapping Overground station, but the real treat is arriving via the Thames Path. Walking along the river, past converted warehouses and historic stairs to the Thames, you'll feel like you're discovering a hidden piece of London – even though the pub's been here for generations.

The interior layout deserves special mention, with its multiple levels offering different perspectives on the river. Each floor has its own character, from the cozy ground floor with its traditional bar to the upper levels where the views become increasingly spectacular. The pub manages that rare feat of being both spacious enough for groups yet maintaining intimate corners where couples can huddle over their drinks.

For those seeking authentic London experiences without the tourist markup, the Captain Kidd delivers in spades. The prices remain surprisingly reasonable for such a prime location, making it a fantastic spot for everything from casual after-work drinks to weekend afternoon sessions. The card payment options and NFC technology mean you won't get caught out without cash, though you might want to bring some anyway – it never hurts to have backup when you're having such a good time that "just one more" becomes the motto of the evening.

Here's my advice: make your way to the Captain Kidd on a late afternoon, when the sun starts its descent over the Thames. Grab a drink, find a spot on the terrace, and watch as London's river life unfolds before you. This isn't just another London pub – it's a front-row seat to the city's maritime soul, served with a side of affordable drinks and a generous splash of history. Trust me, it's the kind of place that will have you planning your return visit before you've finished your first pint.