May Bank Holiday is coming up and it's a brilliant excuse to spend time with friends and family, as well as fitting in fun activities you may not usually have time for.

Unfortunately, the weather is likely to be cool and rainy, so you may be forced to stay indoors... But never fear, London boasts some of the best pubs and restaurants in the country to while away the hours.

If you fancy doing something low-key with the family, here's our round-up of the best pubs in west London - some outdoors in case the weather holds up:

The Dove

A charming pub owned by Fullers Brewery and overlooking the Thames, you won't find a place more steeped in history than The Dove. Charles II used to frequent it, and it has been said the poet James Thomson composed Rule Britannia here.

19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9TA - 020 8748 9474

The Blue Anchor

A family-run riverside pub with a beautiful view of the Thames. The pub has a river feel and lovely indoor spots with good views if it's too rainy for al-fresco dining!

13 Lower Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9DJ – 020 87485774

The Andover Arms

A cosy, traditional English pub with live jazz nights.

A reviewer from an independent website said: "The Andover Arms was everything we were looking for on a cold winter's night. All of the food we had was delicious. The kind of food that is delicious, and satisfying in a stick-to-your-ribs good kind of way."

57 Aldensley Road, Hammersmith, W6 0DL – 020 8748 2155

The City Barge

With history dating back to the 1300s, this riverside pub is the perfect place to visit for a pint, good food, and to watch the world go by. Brilliant, traditional food and a beautiful view. The Beatles even ordered lager and limes here in Help - so if that's not a reason to visit, we don't know what is!

A reviewer from an independent website said: "The chef really knows how to combine and balance flavours for a truly delicious meal. Look forward to returning soon."

27 Strand on the Green, Chiswick, W4 3PH - 020 8994 2148

The Mall Tavern

Huge portions of gorgeous, hearty food and a garden for if the weather holds up; The Mall Tavern is a place to go if you have a huge appetite for pub grub. With desserts as tempting as bourbon pecan pie, don't fill up too much on the main course!

71-73 Palace Gardens Terrace, Notting Hill, W8 4RU – 020 7229 3374

The Grosvenor

Monthly jazz nights, live music, a quiz night every Monday and regular events such as beer festivals, are all part of the attractions. The pub recently won the West Middlesex CAMRA Pub of the Year award, so get down and see what all the fuss is about!

127 Oaklands Road, Hanwell, W7 2DT - 020 8840 0007

The Toucan

A brilliant Irish pub to visit with the whole family this bank holiday. With floor-to-ceiling Guinness posters, Guinness on tap, and even a variety of Guinness cocktails, there's no denying the Irish credentials of The Toucan! (Rumour has it, Jimi Hendrix once played in the basement!)

19 Carlisle Street, Soho, W1D 3BX - 020 7437 4123

The Coach & Horses

If you're looking for a roast dinner this bank holiday to warm up from the horrible weather, look no further than the trendy Coach & Horses. The Coach & Horses is London's first and only vegetarian and vegan pub. They always offer two vegetarian roasts and one vegan roast on Sundays... Perfect for veggies and animal-lovers!

29 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 5DH – 020 7437 5920

Brewdog

One of the trendiest pubs in London, and with a brilliant menu full of great food and craft beers, this is certainly one for the whole family this bank holiday.

A reviewer from an independent website said: "This pub is amazing! A cosy and easy-going place to hang out, and a such a variety of beers! Perfect for any occasion: friends, family, business, whatever reason you may have for a beer, come here!"

15-19 Goldhawk Road, Shepherd's Bush, W12 8QQ - 020 8749 8094