Looking for a proper pint near Upney Tube? This part of Barking might not be the West End, but it’s got its own charm. From traditional boozers to lively lounges, there’s a spot for every mood. Whether you’re after a quiet drink or a night of music and laughter, Upney’s got you covered. So, let’s explore the best bars and pubs this area has to offer.
The Boathouse Café & Bar
Address: The Granary Building, 80 Abbey Road, IG11 7BT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled within the historic Granary Building in Barking’s Ice House Quarter, The Boathouse Café & Bar is a short 12-minute walk from Barking Station. Situated along the River Roding, it offers a tranquil riverside setting that’s just a stone’s throw from the town centre.
- What’s the Vibe? This independently run venue exudes a relaxed and creative atmosphere. With interiors crafted from recycled wood and quirky design elements, it provides a warm and inviting space. The riverside terrace offers splendid views, especially at sunset, making it a perfect spot for unwinding.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beverages & Signature Cocktails: The Boathouse boasts an impressive selection of London-produced craft beers and expertly crafted cocktails. Owner Derrick Daniel, a former boxer turned mixologist, brings 12 years of experience from Copenhagen to the bar. Guests can enjoy half-price cocktails during daily happy hours.
- Live Entertainment & Unique Events: The venue regularly hosts live DJs spinning vinyl, performances by up-and-coming singers, and a variety of events including karaoke nights, music quizzes, magic shows, and cocktail-making classes. These events contribute to its reputation as a vibrant community hub.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Beks Zone
Address: 390 Ripple Road, Barking, IG11 9RS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Beks Zone is located on Ripple Road in Barking, East London, just a short walk from Upney Underground Station.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue offers a welcoming atmosphere for patrons seeking a place to unwind, socialise, and enjoy various forms of entertainment.
What’s On Offer
- Entertainment Hub: Beks Zone serves as a game and entertainment centre, providing a variety of activities for guests.
- Community Events: The venue regularly hosts events aimed at fostering camaraderie and relaxation among its patrons.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 08:00 – 00:00
- Friday and Saturday: 08:00 – 01:00
- Sunday: 08:00 – 00:00
My Place Lounge
Address: 31 Longbridge Road, Barking, IG11 8TN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Barking, East London, My Place Lounge is conveniently situated on Longbridge Road. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring the vibrant borough.
- What’s the Vibe? My Place Lounge offers a dynamic fusion of experiences. By day, it presents a relaxed dining atmosphere with a focus on Greek cuisine. As evening approaches, the venue transforms into a lively sports bar and shisha lounge, providing a vibrant setting for social gatherings and entertainment.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic Greek Cuisine: The lounge prides itself on serving some of the finest Greek dishes in the area. Patrons can indulge in a variety of traditional meals that capture the essence of Mediterranean flavours.
- Shisha Lounge & Sports Bar: Beyond dining, My Place Lounge doubles as a shisha lounge and sports bar. Guests can enjoy a selection of shisha flavours in a comfortable setting while watching live sports events, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and excitement.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? My Place Lounge welcomes guests daily from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Lighterman
Address: 109 Bastable Avenue, Barking, IG11 0NX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of the Thames View Estate in Barking, The Lighterman is easily accessible via local bus routes EL1 and EL2, and is approximately a 15-minute walk from Barking Riverside Station.
- What’s the Vibe? Following a 2022 refurbishment, The Lighterman boasts a stylish yet cosy interior featuring timber flooring, leather seating, and heritage colour schemes. The pub offers a traditional snug, a spacious dining area, and a lounge equipped with darts and a high-spec AV system for sports viewing.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Fare: The menu is rich with British classics such as fish & chips, steak & ale pie, and a variety of burgers. For those seeking lighter options, there are sandwiches, salads, and a dedicated kids’ menu.
- Live Sports and Events: The Lighterman is a hub for sports enthusiasts, featuring multiple screens showing Sky Sports, TNT Sports, ESPN, and Amazon Prime. Regular events include quiz nights and live entertainment, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Food Service Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The Thatched House
Address: 632 Ripple Road, Barking, IG11 9PG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Ripple Road in Barking, East London, The Thatched House is conveniently located near the A13 and within walking distance of Upney Underground Station. Its accessible location makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub boasts a lively and welcoming atmosphere, blending traditional charm with modern amenities. It’s known for its vibrant events, including live music and sports broadcasts, creating a dynamic environment for patrons. The venue is also family-friendly and caters to diverse groups.
What’s On Offer
- East African Cuisine & Drinks: The Thatched House offers a unique culinary experience with East African fare, complemented by a selection of beers and cocktails. This fusion of flavours provides a distinctive dining option in the area.
- Live Entertainment & Sports: Regular live music performances and sports event screenings are a staple at the pub, enhancing its reputation as a hub for entertainment and community gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Thursday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Ready to Visit?
Barking may not be the first place that springs to mind for a night out, but the area around Upney Tube Station offers a surprisingly diverse and welcoming bar scene. Whether you’re after riverside relaxation, lively events, or bold flavours, there’s something here for every mood. The Boathouse Café & Bar charms with its creative riverside setting and standout cocktails, while The Thatched House draws a lively crowd with its East African cuisine and late-night entertainment.
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Why not pop into one of these unique local spots and see what the buzz is about? If you’ve had a great time, don’t keep it to yourself – share this article with mates and leave a review to spread the word. Cheers to discovering something new in Barking!
