As other reviews have already stated - the pub is tiny so allow for waiting times if you want to sit down for food. We arrived at 12:45 on a Saturday and there were free tables so lucky I guess! The seafood platter is extremely yummy, such nice lightly battered seafood that is superbly fresh. The staff are friendly and approachable. The atmosphere is what really makes this pub a gem - a piece of historic London still surviving to this day.

This place it's like something you need in your life.... Amazing, on the river, following the sound of the waters, dreaming another time in which man's and nature are just one thing... A place where "you cannot pass" whiteout lost yourself in a dream. Just perfect place, beer, food, people... My heart it's here. Thank you

Nice pub on the river, over two floors. It is quite small but very popular. It has a nice balcony to enjoy a drink looking at the river.

We came here because we are fans of Sir Ian who is part owner. The Dickens connections were a huge plus. But the best part was the amazing food and friendly, efficient service. It is the best pub food we have ever had! Kudos to the hard working team.

I didn't like the fact the manager kicked out a crowd of 20 people who were happy and signing in the pub who bought drinks and were really good company to us all customers including staff. I can't believe the reason was aw!...... they were signing football songs which they wernt as I saw and heard they were a country folk signing old folk songs which wasn't offensive or doing any harm. Another reason..... And were blocking the exit?? Which they wernt as the group was polite. So a busy crowd who blocks an exit  on a quiz night on a Monday jam packed! do they kickoff  or asked to leave?   Nope! Embarrassing! That was her rules and policy...embarrassing! :( I noticed that the manager is starting to install cameras like everywhere watching us all whilst she  in the kitchen as at same time staff seem to be running around like dogs and stressed to bits.  I don't agree with that in the workplace in this day and age as modern day wage slave I don't tollerate. I only came here to work with promotion prospects not break my back fixing a sinking ship and work like a dog. If this was an average pub without the celebrity status of Ian mkcelan and A replica LOTR stick this pub would be shut down and nothing full stop. I noticed and have a feeling that there is a bullying policy here that it was a good thing that I left before it got worse. Omg a pint of lemonade from a bottle nearly £4  rip off and shocking that.

You have to arrive early as the pub is small and very popular. I arrived at 6pm on a Tuesday evening and had no problem getting a table. It’s a nice traditional pub with great river views and a delicious fish based menu. I highly recommend the Smoked Salmon Risotto.

Lovely pub with a great riverside view. I’d like to come back to spend some more time in here. The pub has retained its traditional appearance. May it never change.

One of the most historic London pubs that still feels historic. Come on a weekday afternoon when you'll have time & space to soak up the atmosphere and have a snoop around. A great way to feel the power of the great River Thames.

Great service! Fairly small pub, but I did love sitting outside under the heater listening to the waves 🫶

There is a regular here named Chris. Buy him a Guinness. He is probably wearing headphones. Has a very infectious laugh. ANYWAY. THE PUB. Absolutely amazing pub. Waddled my way here on a Wednesday evening and had the time of my life. Going to a bar alone can be depressing but the staff and regulars here made me feel very welcome. Good and pints was great. Top notch.

Drinks, people talking, others playing chess, and all having a good time. Besides that, I enjoyed a lot the Gandalf details, as the staff and the picture. A lovely place

Such a cute pub with great history. Right by the river this cozy location was friendly and had a great atmosphere. We were only passing through but I am so glad we popped in for a drink. They also served food, which we did not try on this occasion however it looked very good. A delightful pub and well worth hunting it out in the back lanes of this area.

Beautiful classic pub by the river! There aren't many riverside pubs left in east London and this one reminds me why I love riverside pubs. The pub is tucked away in Limehouse and has a very classic interior. On the weekend it is likely to be full and is a great place for a pub roast or fish and chips! Whilst it is small inside the vibe is cosy. The outdoor terrace was a highlight for me however it is quite small so be aware of that!

A beautiful little pub on the river. It was very relaxing having a pint out back over the river, with water occasionally lapping up between the boards. The staff was extremely friendly, chatty and hilarious, making us stay for a few more pints than intended. Brilliant!

We have been there couple of times for drinks but also for small plates but they do one of the best Sunday roast. The roast dinner it was ample, with well cooked beef and crispy but fluffy potatoes and plenty vegetables. The service was attentive and friendly staff. The pub is on the river and is one of the oldest on that stretch of the river. It has hot a lot of original fixtures with a small balcony overlooking Canary Wharf and the river. Also there's a small snug room upstairs.

We got very lucky we walked in and a group were leaving their river frontage table upstairs. We chose a Malbec wine and burgers and I will say both were excellent. As for the view from our table the photos speak for themselves.

The cute neighborhood pub sat right on the side of the river. Food prices are fantastic and a nice range of drink choices. Guest are allowed to bring their dogs. Amazing Sunday roast deals. Portions are large and tasty. Only downside, it wasn't hot... wouldn't have even called it warm. That was disappointing, but I would go back and give them another chance and in hopes that it was a one time experience.

Lovely little old bar ,tucked away , found while looking for something to eat on a visit to London. We had a seafood share platter and it was amazing , well worth it and the staff were so kind. The whole experience felt very welcoming.

A really old London boozer by the Thames, friendly and efficient staff, it's got a small balcony on the ground floor and smaller balcony on the 1st floor with nice views of the Thames. A nice range of Real Ales which are well kept, I haven't tried the food yet but looks good and a nice menu, if You like old pubs it a must.

It is one of the oldest pubs in London. Tiny little gem tucked away. Balcony overlooking the Thames and skyline of the city. The lady behind the bar couldn't have been far from interested in working here. I appreciate people asking to have a picture taken with Gandalfs staff, which can be quite tiresome. But it's a big thing to the LOtR's fans. The history of this place is just fantastic. Great pint of Guinness.

Nice dock pub with plenty of specials , starters and variety of drinks. There are places to sit downstairs , at the bar , but also upstairs with a river view. Highly recommend when in London

It was the best fish & chips I have ever eaten. My hubby joked with the chef, saying that his seabass was better than a very well-known fish restaurant in Sandbanks, Dorset. We will definitely return. The 2 barmaids were so nice, too. No disabled toilet, though.

So of course I was drawn to "The Grapes" the 1st time due to Sir Ian McKellen being part owner. Quickly fell in love with the pub and it's become a place I try and get to every London trip. Cozy, good beers, great friendly staff. Plus, cant beat the view of the Thames!

I loved this pub. You can have a beautiful view of the river, you can enjoy the great food and have a nice time. Difficult to find seats though. Highly recommended. I would also suggest that they clean the seats and the tables better.

A beautiful 500 year old pub conveniently located a walking distance away from Westferry station. The pub is co-leased by Sir Ian Mckellen. The actual staff used by Gandalf the Grey in the LOTR can be seen by the bar. The bartender was very lovely. Would definitely come here again.

Fantastic spot for a Sunday roast with amazing views of life on the river Thames. Prices are reasonable, food is excellent and the history is amazing. You can even spot Gandalf's staff from Lord Of The Rings behind the bar!

Visited on 17th August, small pub with character and good to see the LOTR Gandalf inspiration within...ordered a few Guinness and Lager and they were cold and nice - friendly staff, can't wait to go back.

Went for a quick sorbet, it was massive! £6 for I think 4 giant scoops. I couldn’t finish it, wish they offered a smaller option but will definitely return. I love a wine bar and this looks absolutely lovely. Not too crowded. Has a nice vibe.

Food was lovely, good sized portions. Reasonable prices. Good selection of drinks. Polite staff. Lively cost outdoor seating right at the back. 1 star down due to steak arriving cold but we asked for it to be reheated, it was reheated without any issues. Seating could be more comfortable for when eating upstairs thought it is nice for drinks, barrel and stool vibe is nice. Have been before and would go again.

Cutest little cosy pub right by the river. When the tide comes in it feels like you are on a small pirate ship. This pub is famous for their seafood and the food did not disappoint. Enjoyed every second of the grub at atmosphere. Good prices too!

Very classic and old pub. LotR is probably the main draw, but other than that it is quite average and un-spectacular. The food was average, and despite the price point being lower than expected for the area, the value was also probably worse.

Old pub from 1500s, now owned by Sir Ian Mckellen. Nice views, excellent ambient and some memorabilia from The Lord of the Rings.

A beautiful historic pub with your typical beer selections among a full bar. Basic pub food selection with a couple extras, but not it's strongest suit. There is a pub quiz night each week I still have yet to go to.

The Grapes is a truly superb old fashioned very London pub on the edge of the Thames not very far from Canary Wharf. It's a beautiful old building inside and out and is a must visit If you like real pubs or just old buildings. It feels like it probably hasn't changed much in 200 years or more. Friendly service and retrains the feel of a local which is lovely. The range of drinks is pretty standard not much if you're a cider lover especially though in London it's unsurprisingly much more about beer. The Timothy Taylor's was great though. It does food but we didn't try any this time.

Love this little pub. Often pop in when I'm over that way. Brilliant food. Feels like a proper pub. Dogs are welcome as long as they don't put their paws on any chairs. And are more than happy to eat any food fallen from the plates of diners. Staff are awesome.

Great place. Lots of character. Really great staff. Just be aware that they do not have a licence for children. It is very small so if you want to eat, get there earlier. There is no booking.

We came for Gandalf ;) but stayed for surprisingly good food which we did not expect tbh. We had the seafood platter for two, all fresh and tasty with crunchy fries. For me the pub definitely has a very authentic british pub atmosphere. Would definitely go there again and enjoy a Guinness and the great river views.

Kitchen not open until late. Came in at 6pm. Was bluntly told can’t get any food until 1830 if I’m lucky. Not sure I’d stay around that long as the food on the menu doesn’t look that appealing. Had a couple of warms cokes. £3.50. Think if I’d have asked for ice I’d have been shouted at or charged more. So am now sipping my luke warm coke in a dingy pub thinking that I need to get out before the kitchen opens.

We arrived about 12.30 on a Sunday which seems to be a good time to go as it wasn’t too busy and we had the pick of tables at the front of the building (road side). We shared the seafood platter which was so tasty and worth it! Would highly recommend.

A fantastic old style pub... Quaint and qwerky. Great tasting food. We had the Tapas selection. Will definitely recommend and will be going back again.

A brilliant local pub with Incredibly friendly staff and a brilliant selection of drinks. The atmosphere here is a rarity in London nowadays but this pub has still retained its charm and character. The decking - while it is smoke free understandably - offers unrivalled views down the Thames and on a sunny day is an easy place to spend the afternoon. The food here is pretty good as well and reasonably priced. Most certainly worth a visit if you’re in the area!

Lovely pub for a pint or fish and chips. It was delicious, not greasy at all. We enjoyed our visit.