The Jewel of the Thames ~ Quintessential British riverside tavern

Built on the site of The Old George Inn in 1837, the year of Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne, this Grade II-listed building has taken many forms. Through Victoria’s reign it was frequented by Charles Dickens who chose the Trafalgar Tavern as the setting for the wedding breakfast in Our Mutual Friend, his final novel. It was around the same time that politicians decided to host the ministerial ‘whitebait dinners’ here; where they would dine on whitebait caught fresh from the Thames. This became an annual tradition for ministers who would travel across from Westminster by barge. Following WWI the Tavern became home to aged seaman and during WWII it was used as flats for naval officers. Finally, in 1968, this inspiring venue was restored to its Victorian grandeur; a pub and a tribute to old London. 

Each room is named after great naval victories or celebrated officers. On the ground floor you’ll find The Nile Restaurant and Trafalgar Bar open to all for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Upstairs, the Nelson Room and Hawke and Howe bar are ideal for private functions, events and weddings. In the basement is Cribb's Parlour, a late-night bar and private event space available for exclusive hire. You can find out more and explore the building – and its rich history – below.

Whether popping in for a swift drink or lingering for the evening, guests to the Trafalgar Tavern have been engaging in intriguing and exciting activities since 1837, and today is no different. 

Various art, cultural and music events will be announced over the coming months, ranging from interactive talks from local artists through to live music in the Tavern Bar. Check our what's on pages to see the latest events.

Downstairs, Cribb's Parlour will be host to more lively events such as live Jazz or late-night cocktail explorations. At ground level, The Nile Room will host art evenings, wine tasting and quiz nights and upstairs, in the Hawke and Howe Bar and Nelson Room, we'll showcase some of the best live music and comedy London has to offer. 

Whatever piques your interest, we will host an event that will satisfy your urge for cultural exploration and mental stimulation. And for those whom an organised event doesn’t seem so fun, our main bar will be open as always for you to make your own activities.