The Dove
19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9TA
Dogs are welcome in the front bar area. The back dining room is dog-free. Water bowls are provided. The small terrace overlooking the Thames may allow dogs at quieter times. The pub is popular with towpath walkers and their dogs.
Dog Amenities
A Thames-Side Gem With Literary Pedigree
The Dove sits on the Upper Mall at Hammersmith, a stretch of the Thames that feels more like a riverside village than inner London. It is a dog-friendly pub with a history that stretches back to the seventeenth century — Rule Britannia was reportedly composed here, and the pub holds a Guinness World Record for the smallest bar room. For dog owners walking the Thames Path, The Dove is one of the most atmospheric and rewarding stops along the river.
What Makes The Dove Dog-Friendly?
Dogs are welcome in the front bar, which despite its compact dimensions has real character — dark wood, low ceilings and a fire in winter. Water bowls are provided and the staff are welcoming to dogs. The famous riverside terrace, which holds only a handful of tables and overlooks the Thames, may accommodate dogs at quieter times. The back dining room is dog-free. Given the pub's small size, visiting at less busy times with a dog is wise — weekday lunchtimes and early evenings are best.
Food and Drink
The Dove is a Fuller's pub and keeps their ales in excellent condition — London Pride and ESB are staples. The food has been upgraded over the years and offers gastropub-quality dishes alongside simpler bar options. The menu makes good use of seasonal ingredients. For dog owners restricted to the bar area, the bar menu provides more than enough.
The Setting
The Dove occupies a narrow, characterful building on the Upper Mall, with the Thames flowing past just feet from the terrace. The front bar is small and wonderfully atmospheric, with wood panelling, a fire and the kind of patina that only centuries can produce. The terrace is tiny but perfectly positioned, looking downstream toward Chiswick and catching the afternoon light. The Upper Mall itself is one of London's most pleasant riverside stretches — a pedestrian lane lined with Georgian houses.
Nearby Dog Walks
The Thames Path runs directly past the pub in both directions. Walking west along the river takes you through Chiswick to the grounds of Chiswick House, a beautiful park with open space. East leads toward Hammersmith Bridge and Barnes. Furnivall Gardens, a small riverside park, is a short walk east.
Good to Know
The Dove is a small pub and gets very busy, especially on sunny days when the terrace is in demand. There is no car park — Hammersmith is best reached by Tube. Visiting midweek or outside peak hours gives you the best experience with a dog. The front bar is the only reliably dog-friendly indoor space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in The Dove?
Yes, dogs are welcome in the front bar area of The Dove. The dining room is dog-free. Water bowls are provided. Due to the pub's small size, visiting at quieter times with a dog is recommended.
Does The Dove have a beer garden?
The Dove has a small riverside terrace rather than a beer garden — it holds only a handful of tables and overlooks the Thames. Dogs may be welcome on the terrace at quieter times. It is one of the most photographed pub terraces in London.
Is The Dove good for dogs?
The Dove is a charming choice for dog owners walking the Thames Path, though its small size means it works best at quieter times. The front bar is welcoming, water bowls are provided, and the riverside setting is beautiful.
Does The Dove serve food?
Yes, The Dove serves gastropub-quality food alongside Fuller's ales. The bar menu is available in the dog-friendly front bar. Booking for the dining room is recommended. No dedicated dog menu.
Are there dog walks near The Dove?
The Thames Path passes directly outside. Walking west leads to Chiswick House grounds. East leads toward Hammersmith Bridge and Barnes. Furnivall Gardens is a short walk away.
Can dogs sit inside at The Dove?
Yes, dogs can sit inside in the front bar, which is small but full of character with a fire and wood panelling. The dining room at the back does not permit dogs.
Does The Dove have parking?
No, The Dove does not have a car park. Hammersmith Tube station is a short walk away. Street parking is limited and restricted.
Is The Dove family and dog friendly?
Yes, The Dove welcomes families and dogs, though the pub's compact size means it suits smaller groups better. The riverside setting is lovely for families.
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