Doggett's Coat and Badge

Named after Thomas Doggett, the 18th-century actor who in 1715 organised a rowing race from London Bridge to Chelsea — still running, said to be the oldest continuous sporting event in the UK. The winner gets a traditional waterman's red coat and silver badge. Doggett's Coat and Badge is a 1977 brutalist concrete block at the south end of Blackfriars Bridge, spread over four floors with five bars. It gives almost nothing away from outside. Inside, it was refurbished in early 2024 and the rooftop terrace has panoramic views of St Paul's and the City. Ten handpumps on the ground floor. Get up to the top and take the view in before moving on.