The best boat bars in London

When it’s docked at Crate Brewery, this refurbed pleasure cruiser takes two-hour bookings or chugs off on a twilight jaunt down the River Lea. Crate beers and Jarr Kombucha concoctions will cure any possible sea legs, and there’s an outside sundeck with a retractable roof. But with the solid drink selection, complimentary snacks and old school house tunes, you won’t care what the weather’s doing anyway.

An egg chair, kitsch wall art and disco balls give this 1930s Dutch barge a big Austin Powers vibe. The inside may be shagadelic but the deck seats are pretty special, especially with a view straight onto Parliament and Big Ben. Although it’s known for its nocturnal boogie credentials, it opens mid-morning so check out their weekend brunch and indulge in a spot of daytime drinking.

An oldie but a goodie - it’s been docked in the same spot since 1975 – Tattershall Castle is a multitasking wonder; offering cocktail masterclasses, jazz and comedy nights, not to mention a restaurant and bar. If you want somewhere spacious to meet your mates and soak up the views, this friendly timepiece is just the ticket.

HMS Belfast isn’t your typical museum ship – it’s now got its own snazzy bar and deli from Michelin-starred chef Tom Aikens. This watering hole on the water does cocktails like ‘the Lifeboat Sidecar’ and ‘the Black Pearl’ – plus a selection of reasonably priced IPAs, ciders and wines. Our tip? Head to the alfresco top deck for cracking views - and a break from the naval enthusiasts.