The Ship & Shovell

The Ship & Shovell (that’s Shovell, not shovel!) is London’s only pub in two parts. The unique building is split over both sides of The Arches, under Charing Cross station. Being so close to central London, the pub is always buzzing with atmosphere and chatter. Sir Cloudesley Shovell, the 17th Century Admiral from whom the pub takes its name, was a formidable sea-farer. Admiral Sir Shovell rose in the ranks of the Royal Navy from a cabin boy to Commander-in-Chief and Admiral of the Fleet, battling pirates and enemies of King Charles II until his ill-fated ship was dashed on the rocks of Scilly. One half of the Ship & Shovell boasts a large portrait of Shovell himself and decorative mirrors, as well as old world naval memorabilia, whilst the other remains in the past; somewhere that Sir Shovell or his literary peers (such as the notorious Samuel Pepys) would feel at home having a pint! When the two sides are bustling, the booths and snug and the Crow’s Nest upstairs are a perfect place to enjoy a good drink (or two!) and great conversation.