The Anchor

Samuel Pepys witnessed the Great Fire of London, 1666, from here

Location: 34 Bankside, Southwark, SE1 9EF

Description: It was from this pub that Samuel Pepys witnessed the awesome destruction of the Great Fire of London in 1666. He describes the dreadful heat and fire drops falling on him whilst in a boat on the river. He sought refuge in this little alehouse here on Bankside .....and there watched the fire grow.

The Anchor was rebuilt in 1676 after fire devastated the area. This pub was also the star in 'Mission Impossible' - yes... Mr Tom Cruise and Ving Rhames can be seen sharing a pint and a good old chin wag.

There used to be (perhaps still are?) concealed staircases, and a small vertical shaft that gives access to a room in which escaped convicts from the nearby Clink prison reportedly took refuge for a price.

There are plenty of 18th century (and later) features still remaining throughout. How it survived the bombing during the wars is anyones guess.

Themes: Cinema Cinema Theme