The Black Lion

The Black Lion is situated between Hammersmith and Chiswick on the North Bank of the River Thames. It's perfect traditional pub appearance of white stucco, smart black sign and barrels of flowers and hanging baskets make it appear that it's in a perfect English village rather than in busy London. But as many other pubs near water will testify, you can while away many hours, drinking, chatting and gazing at the water. This part of London is already beautiful, and this pub could make the perfect stopping off point in a longer walk, run or cycle from say Chelsea Bridge to Richmond and the deer park. The pub featured in a book about the River Thames 'The Water Gypsies, by local resident AP Herbert, and is also at the centre of some gruesome ghost stories that weave their magic around this western outpost of London. It's also the home of one of the most famous skittle (bowling) alleys in London, apparently played on by none other than Hollywood legend, Douglas Fairbanks Junior.