Introduction
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames in the heart of London‘s Wapping district, The Prospect of Whitby stands as a living testament to the city‘s rich and colorful past. This iconic pub, established in 1520, has witnessed the ebb and flow of London‘s history, from the swashbuckling days of pirates and smugglers to the modern era of artists and celebrities. Join us as we delve into the fascinating story of The Prospect of Whitby and discover why this timeless treasure trove continues to captivate visitors from all walks of life.
The Devils Tavern: A Notorious Beginning
The Prospect of Whitby‘s early years were marked by a reputation for attracting the most unsavory characters of the time. Originally known as "The Pelican," the pub soon earned the more sinister moniker of "The Devils Tavern" due to its clientele of smugglers, pirates, and cutthroats (Pullan, 2008). Located near the infamous Execution Dock, where convicted pirates faced their final fate, The Prospect of Whitby bore witness to the grim spectacle of hangings. Records show that between 1735 and 1830, at least 74 pirates were executed at Wapping‘s Execution Dock (Konstam, 2008).
One of the most notorious pirates associated with Execution Dock was Captain William Kidd, who was tried and executed for piracy and murder in 1701 (Zacks, 2003). Legend has it that Kidd‘s body was displayed in a gibbet at Tilbury Point, across the river from The Prospect of Whitby, as a warning to other would-be pirates (Foley, 2014).
A Haven for Artists and Luminaries
As the centuries passed, The Prospect of Whitby began to attract a more distinguished clientele drawn to its stunning riverside views and unique atmosphere. Renowned artists such as J.M.W. Turner and James Abbott McNeill Whistler found inspiration in the pub‘s surroundings, immortalizing the scenery in their paintings (Pye, 2014). Turner‘s "The Fighting Temeraire" (1839) and Whistler‘s "Nocturne: Blue and Gold – Old Battersea Bridge" (1872-1875) both feature the River Thames and capture the essence of the area surrounding The Prospect of Whitby.
Literary giants also frequented the pub, with Charles Dickens being one of its most famous patrons. Dickens, known for his vivid descriptions of London life, often sat by the window, crafting his timeless tales while enjoying a pint (Walford, 2014). In his novel "Our Mutual Friend" (1865), Dickens describes a scene set in a pub that closely resembles The Prospect of Whitby:
"A tavern of dropsical appearance… long settled down into a state of hale infirmity. It had outlasted many a sprucer public house, indeed the whole house impended over the water but seemed to have got into the condition of a faint-hearted diver who has paused so long on the brink that he will never go in at all." (Dickens, 1865)
In the 20th century, The Prospect of Whitby continued to attract an eclectic mix of patrons, from the legendary crooner Frank Sinatra to the glamorous Princess Margaret (Pye, 2014).
Authentic Atmosphere and Modern Allure
Today, visitors to The Prospect of Whitby can immerse themselves in the pub‘s authentic atmosphere, which is enhanced by an extensive collection of artifacts and curiosities. Antique naval memorabilia, centuries-old Chianti bottles suspended from the ceiling of the Smugglers Bar, and replica gallows showcasing the pub‘s connection to Execution Dock all contribute to the pub‘s unique character (Williams, 2016).
The pub‘s interior also features original 400-year-old flagstone floors and a rare 19th-century pewter bar top (Williams, 2016). These historic elements are complemented by an extensive selection of local ales, craft beers, and traditional pub fare, making The Prospect of Whitby a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience London‘s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting The Prospect of Whitby in 2024
As of 2024, The Prospect of Whitby continues to welcome visitors from across the globe, offering a glimpse into London‘s past while embracing the present. Recent renovations have sensitively modernized the pub‘s amenities without compromising its historic charm, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this timeless treasure.
Getting to The Prospect of Whitby is easy, with the Wapping Overground station located just a 5-minute walk away. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic stroll along the River Thames, taking in the sights and sounds of London‘s vibrant East End before arriving at the pub‘s welcoming doors.
| Visiting Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 57 Wapping Wall, London E1W 3SH |
| Nearest Station | Wapping (Overground) |
| Opening Hours | Monday to Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm, Sunday: 12 pm – 10:30 pm |
| Food Serving Times | Monday to Saturday: 12 pm – 9 pm, Sunday: 12 pm – 8 pm |
| Recommendations | Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the pub‘s atmosphere. |
Conclusion
The Prospect of Whitby stands as a symbol of London‘s enduring spirit – a witness to the city‘s triumphs and tribulations, its darkest moments and its most celebrated eras. This historic pub serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and the stories that have shaped our world. By supporting and celebrating establishments like The Prospect of Whitby, we ensure that future generations can continue to learn from and be inspired by the rich tapestry of our shared history. So, the next time you find yourself in London, make your way to The Prospect of Whitby, raise a glass to the countless characters who have graced its halls, and become part of the pub‘s ongoing story – one pint at a time.
References
Dickens, C. (1865). Our Mutual Friend. Chapman & Hall.
Foley, S. (2014). The Pirates‘ Pact: The Secret Alliances Between History‘s Most Notorious Buccaneers and Colonial America. Lyons Press.
Konstam, A. (2008). Piracy: The Complete History. Bloomsbury Publishing.
Pullan, R. (2008). The Prospects of Whitby: A History. Tempus Publishing.
Pye, D. (2014). London‘s Riverside Pubs: A Guide to the Best of London‘s Riverside Watering Holes. IMM Lifestyle Books.
Walford, E. (2014). Old and New London: A Narrative of Its History, Its People, and Its Places. Vol. 2. British Library.
Williams, S. (2016). The Prospect of Whitby: Memories of a Wapping Pub. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
Zacks, R. (2003). The Pirate Hunter: The True Story of Captain Kidd. Hyperion.
