How can a concrete block structure built in 1970, take us back 300 years to a time before the bridges of Southwark and Blackfriars were built? The answer lies in the name of the bar: Doggetts.

It is the early 1700s, and we are at Swan Lane, by London Bridge. Thomas Doggett, the famous actor, is down by the river and trying to find a waterman who will row him to Chelsea. The tide is against them, and so most refuse. Fortunately a waterman who had just completed his apprenticeship accepted and rowed the four and a half miles against the current.

As they travelled the Thames, Doggett and his friends probably encouraged watermen to race each other for a wager The race became formalised in 1715, following a course from Swan Lane at London Bridge, to the Swan at Chelsea.

It was open to watermen who had just completed their apprenticeships, and the prizes included a coat and badge which were proudly worn. Doggett's race continues to this day, although the pubs at the start and finish of the race were demolished long ago.

Doggetts
1 Blackfriars Bridge, London, SE1 9UD
tel: 020 7633 9081