With summer almost at a close it's important to make the most of the last few weeks of better weather to soak up the sun before the days become chillier.

South London’s riverside is home to some beautiful and historic pubs, with many having links to south London’s naval history.

If you’re planning a day out and are in need of a pub within easy reach of the Thames and its many river boats, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites.

The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

Starting with one of London’s oldest pubs, The Mayflower is south of the River Thames in Rotherhithe.

Dating back to 1550, this pub claims to be the “oldest pub” on the Thames, and its history spans over 470 years from when it was named The Shippe before being renamed The Mayflower in 1958.

The Mayflower claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames.The Mayflower claims to be the oldest pub on the Thames (Image: Google)

The pub offers outdoor seating with views of the Thames, perfect for a summer's day to stop off for a drink.

But if you get chilly, the pub offers cosy interiors with an open fire, original wood beams and paintings, along with window view seating if you still fancy a look over the Thames.

It also serves roast dinners on Sundays, as well as a menu with British classics like fish and chips for £18.

The Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

Moving over to Greenwich, The Trafalgar Tavern is a popular spot with riverside seating offering views of Greenwich and The O2.

The building dates back to 1837 when it was first built, and was a popular drinking spot due to its close proximity to Greenwich Hospital, which was used by Naval officers.

The Trafalgar Tavern is a popular spot with riverside seating offering views of Greenwich and The O2.The Trafalgar Tavern is a popular spot with riverside seating offering views of Greenwich and The O2 (Image: Google)

This pub is just a few minutes’ walk from Cutty Sark pier, which you can get to by Thames Clipper boat from central London within just 30 minutes.

The pub’s interiors pay homage to Greenwich’s naval history, with marine-themed paintings and decorations giving it that Instagram-worthy feel.

The Ship, Wandsworth

Moving west of Greenwich, The Ship in Wandsworth is a vibrant gastropub with both indoor and outdoor seating, and an eclectic mix of outdoor props including a vintage telephone box.

he Ship in Wandsworth is a vibrant gastropub with both indoor and outdoor seating.The Ship in Wandsworth is a vibrant gastropub with both indoor and outdoor seating (Image: Roche Communications)

The menu also features a range of British classics like battered haddock, sirloin steak and Cumberland sausages, and on Sundays it serves "the mother of all roasts" along with cocktails at sunset.

White Cross, Richmond

Moving further south and the green neighbourhood of Richmond, with its independent shops, deer-filled park and historic buildings, makes for a great day out while still being within Zone Six of London.

The pub dates back to 1780 and has served ale since 1869, located right next to the River Thames offering views of the banks of the Thames and Richmond Bridge.

The White Cross dates back to 1780 and has served ale since 1869.The White Cross dates back to 1780 and has served ale since 1869 (Image: Roche Communications)

It serves a menu of British classics as well as a Sunday roast starting at £20, along with its 'Oyster Shack' on Saturdays and Sundays where you can get three oysters for £12.

The pub is also dog-friendly, making it a great place to stop by after a walk around Richmond.

The Crabtree, Fulham

Located just across the water from Battersea, The Crabtree pub is located within the leafy neighbourhood of Fulham.

Dating back to 1898, this picturesque pub has both indoor and outdoor seating by the river with views of Putney Bridge and is just a short walk from Craven Cottage.

The Crabtree pub is located within the leafy neighbourhood of Fulham.The Crabtree pub is located within the leafy neighbourhood of Fulham (Image: Switched On)

Alongside drinks it also serves up a seasonally-inspired menu, with current dishes including fish and chips and pan-fried sea bass.

It also hosts live music events along with quiz nights and offers a summer drinks menu including frozen cocktails.