The Bishop

Looking for The Bishop in London feels a bit like stumbling upon a secret riverside retreat that somehow escaped the capital's usual madness. Perched along the Thames with views that'll make your Instagram followers weep with envy, this isn't just another cookie-cutter London pub - it's the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your evening plans and settle in for the long haul.

Let's be honest: Thames-side pubs in London can sometimes be tourist traps with mediocre pints and sky-high prices. The Bishop, however, flips that script entirely. Here's a spot that manages to balance proper pub credentials with just enough polish to make it special. The building itself has that classic London pub architecture that makes you wonder about all the stories these walls could tell, but step inside and you'll find it's thoroughly modern where it counts.

The real magic of The Bishop happens when you snag one of those coveted outdoor tables. There's something almost Mediterranean about watching the sun dance off the Thames while sipping a perfectly poured pint or nursing a glass of wine. The riverside terrace has become something of a local legend, especially during those precious London summer evenings when the light seems to stretch on forever. And unlike some of London's posher riverside establishments, there's no need to take out a second mortgage to enjoy an afternoon here - the prices are surprisingly reasonable for such a prime location.

Inside, The Bishop strikes that perfect balance between cozy pub and contemporary dining spot. The interior is a clever mix of traditional wood paneling and modern touches, with enough nooks and crannies to make every visit feel like you've discovered a new favorite spot. The lighting hits that sweet spot between "actually being able to read the menu" and "everyone looks good here," which, let's face it, is an art form in itself.

The food menu deserves its own paragraph (or three). While many London pubs treat food as an afterthought, The Bishop's kitchen team clearly got the memo that modern pub-goers expect more than just basic pub grub. Their Sunday roast has developed something of a cult following among locals, with the Yorkshire puddings achieving near-mythical status. The regular menu manages to walk that fine line between pub classics and more adventurous fare, all executed with obvious care and attention to detail.

The drink selection is exactly what you'd hope for from a proper London pub, with a rotating cast of real ales that keeps the CAMRA crowd happy, plus a wine list that's clearly been chosen by someone who knows their Merlot from their Malbec. The staff actually seem to enjoy making recommendations, which is refreshing in a city where bartender enthusiasm can sometimes feel as rare as an affordable flat in Zone 1.

Speaking of staff, they're part of what makes The Bishop feel special. There's none of that artificial corporate cheeriness here - instead, you get genuine warmth and the kind of service that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. They've mastered that distinctly British art of being attentive without hovering, and they know their stuff when it comes to both food and drink recommendations.

Dog owners, rejoice - your four-legged friends are welcome here, and the staff are known to keep a stash of treats behind the bar. It's these little touches that transform The Bishop from just another London pub into a genuine community hub. The fact that they take reservations is also a godsend, especially for those summer evenings when riverside spots become hotter property than a central London parking space.

For the practical-minded, it's worth noting that they've embraced the 21st century with contactless payments and a decent booking system. There's paid parking nearby, but given its location and London's, shall we say, interesting relationship with parking, public transport is probably your best bet. The nearest stations are an easy walk away, which makes The Bishop perfect for both planned visits and spontaneous pop-ins.

Sure, London has no shortage of pubs, but The Bishop manages to be something special without trying too hard. Whether you're planning a Sunday roast with the family, meeting friends for after-work drinks, or just fancy a solo pint with a view, this place fits the bill. My advice? Book ahead for those prime riverside tables, arrive hungry, and prepare to stay longer than you planned. Trust me, once you've found your spot at The Bishop, you won't want to leave.