Where shall we meet?: The Dove, Hammersmith

This pub is a popular spot from which to watch the Boat Race, so it would be a good idea to avoid it in early April. The rest of the year, though, it's a great place to watch a river sunset; it has a fine terrace, glassed over in winter so that you don't have to suffer too much.

The interior consists of a series of small rooms and, while the clientele veers towards wearing Barbours, they don't intrude: the hearty contingent tends to congregate nearer the boathouses to the east. Good beer, solid, unpretentious food. You could spend an evening here without any trouble at all.

The Dove, 19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith W6 (071-748 5405).

(Photograph omitted)