Nestled within a lovely little Georgian terrace of eight cottages – that’s rather peculiarly surrounded by the modern skyscrapers of North Greenwich – this cosy pub, dating from 1801, has surprisingly plush and funky rooms above its cosy and pleasant bar featuring exposed beams, nautical paintings, ship’s wheels and the like. 

The cottages have quite a history, being artisan housing, built for workers at the nearby tidal mill and chemical works. They were featured in the famous video for Park Life by Blur and Damien Hirst lived in one for a while.

Overlooking a large tree-lined lawn and a lively panorama including the 02, with its bars, cafes, restaurants, cinema and live shows just a five-minute walk away, The Pilot is impeccably connected, with North Greenwich station (Jubilee line) and a large choice of buses nearby. Another option is the Emirates Airline cable car over the Thames.

The Pilot has 10 boutique bedrooms, each with a unique character. One is furnished with vintage Polaroid photos, another is decked out with retro maps, while another has a wall of album covers. If you want cosy, try the Captain’s Cabin, which features wood panelling and porthole windows. There are attractive flourishes, such as a host of colourful framed prints of birds on a wall of one room, or a selection of vintage suitcases stacked up above the door.

Room rates include parking and a hearty breakfast including Eggs Benedict, Florentine and Royale, continental and full English.

The Pilot Inn, 68 River Way, London SE10 0BE; 020 8858 5910;  pilotgreenwich.co.uk