Riverside pub for a lunch party?

Can anyone suggest an unpretentious venue for a small (20-30)lunch party in October? We would like a sit-down meal in a private space with easy access to a smokers' area and a view of the river.

You could ring The Anchor Bankside.

They have a large outdoor area right on the river. I don't know if you can reserve tables - but you can always ask.

Link here

I know Browns also have a private space, I've seen them seating people in there for things before. The bar's ok actually, like everywhere down by the river, it can be full of tourists and traders, but because it's at the end of the row of bars, it can be a little quieter.

You could also try the Mayflower, they have an upstairs section you could reserve.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2011/may/06/top-10-london-best-pubs

If it's a weekend you may be able to take over www.thesamuelpepys.co.uk on the north side of Southwark Bridge for your own use - they mention private bookings. No idea about what the food's like but it's not a huge space (so 20-30 would feel comfortable without rattling around) and there's a decent-sized river terrace looking out over Tate Mod and the Globe.

Failing that, the Old Thameside Inn has standard pub grub and might allocate you a section, though it wouldn't be entirely private.

i am not sure if they do food but the angel down behind the kings stair gardens has a nice room upstairs.

OR the old salt quay on the rotherhithe peninsula is large enough to have people over for food.

Hope you find somewhere and remember to post your feedback on the event!

On the North side of the Millenium bridge there is a restaurant called Northbank and I think they also do private parties. It has a nice view over the Globe and the Tate Modern.

Thank you all so much - it's wonderful to get so many suggestions so quickly. Please keep them coming!
We will be checking these venues out over the next few days and will let you know what we decide.

I'd second The Mayflower for an old London feel.