The Ledger Building
Cocktail Bar | London | England | United Kingdom
Pub in Docklands London
"The Ledger Building" is a well-known pub and cocktail bar of the British Wetherspoon chain, located in the Docklands district of London, England. It is a historic building that was originally constructed in the early 19th century to house the ledgers of the West India Docks—a function that gave the building its name. Designed by architects George Gwilt and his son, the building was erected between 1803 and 1804 and later redesigned by engineer John Rennie in 1827. Until the 1970s, it served as an administrative building for the London Port Authority before being taken over by J D Wetherspoon in 2000 and converted into a pub. This repurposing of a listed building reflects the chain's approach to preserving historic structures and giving them new life.
Cocktail bar with historic atmosphere
The interior of "The Ledger Building" is spacious and features a large, open bar area flanked by several side rooms. The decor is functional and typical of Wetherspoon pubs: simple yet practical, with plenty of seating that accommodates both groups and individual guests. Pictures and information about the history of the Docklands adorn the walls, giving the pub a touch of local charm. Notably, the generous terrace in front of the building serves as a popular gathering spot on sunny days, offering a view of the waters of the former docks. This outdoor space stands out from the otherwise darker interior atmosphere and is often described as a highlight.
Wetherspoon pub with terrace
The drinks menu is extensive, featuring a selection of real ales, including three regularly available beers and two changing guest ales, often sourced from London breweries. In addition to beers, there are craft beer options and freshly ground Lavazza coffee. The cocktail bar itself does not offer extravagant signature creations but focuses on a solid selection of classic cocktails that remain affordably priced—a hallmark of Wetherspoon. The combo deals, where drinks are often included in the price of a meal, are particularly attractive. The menu covers traditional British pub classics like fish & chips, pies, and burgers, supplemented by more modern options such as vegetarian dishes. The breakfast menu is available until noon, and the main menu is served until late evening. The quality of the food is rated variably: while some guests praise the freshness and price, others criticize longer wait times or inconsistencies in preparation.
Traditional British pub food
"The Ledger Building" attracts a diverse clientele, including locals, tourists, and visitors to the nearby Museum of London Docklands. It is known for its relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere and the ability to order directly from the table via an app—a modern convenience that facilitates service, although it does not always function smoothly. The bar is particularly lively on warm days when the terrace is fully occupied, offering an affordable alternative to the often pricier establishments in the Canary Wharf area. However, there are criticisms as well: some visitors complain about overwhelmed staff, longer wait times, or a lack of variety in the beers, especially compared to specialized pubs.
