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This pretty little 17th. century riverside pub has everything; unspoilt surroundings, good food and excellent beer, which must explain why it gets so busy.
The Dove's popularity is nothing new. It boasts a long list of celebrity customers including Graham Greene, Ernest Hemingway and A.P. Herbert, whose novel The Water Gypsies features a pub called the 'Pigeon', nee the Dove. William Morris lived next door. James Thomson, who wrote Rule Britannia, lodged and died here.
Less certain is the claim that Charles II and Nell Gwynne had secret rendezvous here.
Another claim to fame is in the Guinness Book Of Records for the smallest bar in Britain, a cosy 4 ft. 2ins by
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7ft. 10ins.(1.27m x 2.39m).
The saloon bar has a low ceiling with dark oak beams and is simply furnished. An open fire takes off the chill in winter.
A small flight of steps leads to the dining area at the rear, which has ample seating.
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Double doors lead out into a conservatory which houses an old vine. The riverside terrace beyond is a favourite viewpoint for the University Boatrace.

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