The Boaters Inn Review

This is a review and so should mention that the table was wonky (until wedged with a beer mat), that the salmon had to be replaced with trout because they’d run out, and that some sort of minor balls up occurred in the men’s toilet, which actually we found really entertaining as we watched a rather anxious looking customer approach the staff with the worrying comment that “there is a shower in the toilet”; cue lots of people walking in and out the toilet with paper towel.

However, I could not care less about any of that because I was completely charmed by The Boaters Inn.

Admittedly, I am pretty easy when it comes to charm. I get soundly mocked by country friends when I squeal with delight at ‘authentic’ country pubs, complete with horse shoes nailed to wall and farmers sipping ale. However, my more cynical companion was also won over, so it’s official: The Boaters Inn really is lovely.

The experience could have been better if the sun was shining. The Boaters Inn is next to the Thames and I therefore had images of a Wind in the Willow style dinner at dusk with a host of river animal friends. Preferably not Ratty, though, that doesn’t seem quite appropriate at dinner.

However, as is usually the case in England when going somewhere perfect for the outdoors, the weather was hideous. Again, it didn’t really matter. The indoors is a basic normal pub, lots of dark wood and, to match the name, some boating paraphernalia. It was casual and unpretentious, with a mixed clientele of students and ‘normal’ people of all ages. The kind of establishment where having a mild giggling fit about exploding toilets doesn’t require something stuffed in the mouth to muffle the sound (if you’re ever somewhere where mouth stuffing is necessary, from experience, I would avoid all liquids as spraying your neighbouring tables with wine is frowned on by some).

We plonked ourselves to one side to retreat from the Monday night quiz and had a delicious meal. I found my main of poached trout on salad nicoise to be nicely done but a little bland; my squid starter was really tasty and came in a massive portion which I happily ate up. The best of the bunch was undoubtedly the dessert: lemon posset with almond shortbread. Go there, eat it, it’s divine. I licked it dreamily off a spoon for several minutes, while my companion, who cant eat sugar, glared at me in envy, which I am sure added immeasurably to the taste. MMMMMmmmm lemony…

To return quickly to the charm, part of the reason for the charm was the exceptionally charming manager and his charming ideas. For example, every six weeks they have themed international nights with food and music. In the past they’ve done a Spanish night with tapas and Spanish guitar and an Americana night with bluegrass music and clam chowder. He also told us, with much excitement, that he’d recently purchased a giant paella pan and, when the sun and inclination permitted, would make a huge paella outside, which I think is a rather brilliant take on the traditional pub barbecue. There is also the long serving Jazz night on Sundays.

The Boaters Inn is the venue to be at on those deliciously long summer evenings that require nothing more than relaxation. It’s an easy going place with good food and drink that feels a far away from the crowds and rush of London. With a park on one side and the Thames on the other it’s worth making the trip for the day. For me, I only wish I had a boat to do the whole experience properly, it would be rather nice to boat to the Boaters Inn. I am sure that Ratty and Mole would approve.
...read more

Anna Robin 25 Jun 2010

The Boaters Inn Description

The Boaters Inn is a magnificent riverside pub that benefits from stunning views over the Thames stretching down to Teddington Lock.

Opened in April 2008 by the Mayor of Kingston, The Boaters Inn is part of the Capital Pub Group including The Angelsea Arms - where legend has it the Great Train Robbery was instigated.

Perfectly positioned behind Canbury Park, this 75 seat venue also benefits from a wonderful outdoor terrace that can accommodate up to 30 guests with superb sunsets ideal for summer dining. There is also space for 150 outdoors with views stretching across the river.

The menu at The Boaters Inn has undergone a recent transformation. Head Chef Amy Martin previously from The North London Tavern, Kilburn High Road and The Four Seasons in Dublin delivers an array of excellent British pub classics with hints of Modern European influences.

For starters there is a traditional Chicken Liver Pate with Homemade Toast and Cornichons or an inventive Chargrilled Squid, Avocado and Roasted Cherry Tomato Salad to choose from.

Mains don’t disappoint either at the Boaters Inn featuring local Pork and Leek Sausages from Bevans of Kingston who have a won a host of awards and been one of the few butchers in the UK to attain the standard of the coveted "Q" Award.

There is also Ale Battered Fish and Chips, Mushy Peas and Tartare Sauce to select at Boaters. The batter mixture used is thanks to our regularly changing local ale selection including Pilgrim from Reigate and Twickenham Fine Ales.

For the perfect finish choose from a classic Spiced Pear and Apple Crumble served with Custard or a sinful homemade Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream and Raspberry Coulis.

There is a selection of 12 whites and 14 reds at The Boaters Inn to select from using suppliers focusing on individuality to reflect the area. Wines are supplied by Les Caves de Pyrene, an independent wine merchant who have recently been awarded Trade Supplier of The Year.

The Boaters Inn has a range of exciting events held across the year from an annual Tug of War to wife carrying competitions.

They even boast the honour of London’s longest running Jazz night. Celebrating its 20th year in 2010 Jazz at Boaters started off from humble beginnings in 1990. One of its founding members is keyboard player Simon Carter who has played with the likes of Jamiroquai and Anastacia.

So whether it’s a long relaxed drink or some comforting food amongst friendly faces, The Boaters Inn with its beautiful riverside view ensures diners will return again and again whatever season it may be outside....read more

Customer Reviews for The Boaters Inn

Average (based on 3 votes): 3 Atmosphere: Value: Quality:

The following customer reviews are not endorsed by Fluid London and are simply those of users who wish to publish their independent experiences of The Boaters Inn.

“The venue itself is fantastic, right at the river in beautiful Kingston! A proper beer garden outside, very nice staff inside, too. However food is rather something to indulge when you're drunk already, not when looking for a super nice pub food. The side salad was horrible and anyway buried under the chips and steak - chips were absolutely delicious, steak was mediocre, matching the price though (£9.50 or so). Haven't tried their collection of ales, so worth going again. If you want a bit better food (taste, idea, layout) for a similar price, go to Woody's just 1 mile up the river.”
Atmosphere: Value: Quality:
Henning, London (3 years 9 months 15 days ago)

“Wonderful ambience and atmosphere, interesting food menu, superb ales on offer along with traditional bitters and lagers. Very pleasant and helpful bar staff, civilised people for a civilised pub. No lager louts shouting their heads off and being a nuisance.”
Atmosphere: Value: Quality:
Paul Budd, [ Unknown ] (9 years 2 months 2 days ago)

“Fantastic venue. Wish I could go every Sunday, the food is fantastic. Cozy venue, great atmosphere and fabulous views! Excellent service, as well.”
Atmosphere: Value: Quality:
Kendra Reed, [ Unknown ] (9 years 6 months 10 days ago)

Additional Information

• Cuisine Type: British
• Dress Code: Not Specified
• Group: (Independent/Freehouse)