Dalston Kingsland Station isn’t just your gateway to the Overground – it’s your ticket to one of London’s liveliest drinking scenes. Whether you’re after a cheeky pint, a mezcal margarita, or a boogie under a disco ball, this stretch of Kingsland High Street and its backstreets has you sorted. From the legendary Dalston Superstore’s drag brunches to the tiki vibes at Ridley Road Market Bar, and the minimalist cocktails at Bar Lotus, there’s a spot for every mood. So hop off the train and dive into Dalston’s eclectic mix of pubs, bars, and late-night haunts – just don’t blame us if you miss the last train home!
The Speakeasy
Address: 7 Ashwin St, London E8 3DL,
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Speakeasy is situated in the heart of Dalston, East London, just a stone’s throw from Dalston Kingsland Overground station. Nestled on Ashwin Street, it’s part of a vibrant cultural hub that includes the Arcola Theatre and various creative spaces.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue boasts a lively and welcoming atmosphere, blending the charm of a classic cocktail bar with the comfort of a neighbourhood eatery. Inside, you’ll find a cosy setting perfect for intimate gatherings, while the spacious outdoor garden, equipped with heaters, offers a relaxed environment for socialising year-round.
What’s On Offer
- World-Inspired Menu: The Speakeasy serves a diverse selection of dishes, including brunch favourites, tapas, and globally inspired mains. Their Sunday Roast is particularly popular, known for its hearty portions and rich flavours. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Craft Cocktails: The bar offers an extensive range of expertly crafted cocktails, alongside a selection of beers and wines.
- Private Hire: The venue is also available for private hire, accommodating up to 100 guests standing or 60 seated, making it an ideal spot for events and celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
The Prince George
Address: 40 Parkholme Road, Dalston, E8 3AG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on a quiet residential corner in Dalston, East London, The Prince George is a short walk from Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland Overground stations. Its location offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling main roads.
- What’s the Vibe? This Victorian-era pub, established in 1856, exudes a warm and eclectic charm. Inside, you’ll find a mix of traditional features like wooden panelling and fireplaces, alongside quirky decor including taxidermy, vintage posters, and a large world map. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike.
What’s On Offer
- Cask Ales & Craft Beers: The Prince George boasts a rotating selection of real ales and craft beers, with regular offerings like Five Points Pale and Timothy Taylor’s Landlord. The bar also features a variety of European lagers, including the Czech favourite Litovel .
- Hearty Food & Sunday Roasts: The kitchen serves up a menu of hearty dishes, with highlights including burgers and a renowned Sunday roast. The food is crafted to complement the pub’s drink offerings, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal .
- Facilities:
- Outdoor seating in a front patio beer garden
- Function room available for hire
- Pool table and jukebox for entertainment
- Free Wi-Fi for patrons
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: 5pm – 11pm
- Friday–Saturday: 12pm – 12am
- Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
The Three Compasses
Address: 99 Dalston Lane, Hackney, E8 1NH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated at the end of Ridley Road Market in Dalston, The Three Compasses is easily accessible via Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland Overground stations, both just a short walk away.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub masterfully blends traditional East End charm with contemporary flair. Inside, you’ll find dark grey and red walls, wooden floorboards, and vintage furnishings, including a green Chesterfield sofa and a shimmering mirror ball. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd looking for good drinks, hearty food, and lively entertainment.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Cocktails: The bar boasts an impressive selection of local craft beers from breweries like 40FT Brewery, Hackney Brewery, and Beavertown. They also serve a variety of cocktails, including Negronis and Aperol Spritzes.
- Taco Collective Cuisine: The kitchen is run by the Taco Collective, offering LA-style tacos, burritos, loaded fries, and more, all made with bold flavours and quality ingredients.
- Regular Events: The pub hosts a variety of events, including Drag Bingo on the first Thursday of each month, Open Mic nights on the second Monday, and Life Drawing classes on the third Monday. Tuesdays feature a popular Pub Quiz, and weekends are enlivened by DJs spinning a mix of funk, soul, and hip-hop.
- Sports Viewing: With two large projector screens, The Three Compasses is a prime spot for watching major sports events, offering an electric atmosphere for fans.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Duke of Wellington
Address: 119 Balls Pond Rd, London, N1 4BL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on the corner of Balls Pond Road and Culford Road, The Duke of Wellington sits between Dalston and De Beauvoir Town. It’s a short walk from Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland Overground stations, making it easily accessible via public transport.
- What’s the Vibe? This spacious Victorian pub exudes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With its central island bar, original features like etched glass and mosaic tiling, and a mix of cosy corners and communal tables, it caters to both casual drinkers and groups. The pub is dog-friendly and often bustling with locals enjoying craft beers and lively conversations.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Real Ales: The Duke of Wellington boasts a rotating selection of craft beers and real ales, including offerings from local breweries like Sambrook’s. Regularly featuring two real ales, the pub appeals to both traditional ale enthusiasts and craft beer aficionados.
- Flatboys Pizza & Weekly Events: Partnering with Flatboys Pizza, the pub serves up legendary pizzas that pair perfectly with their beer selection. Weekly events include Monday £7 pizzas, Thursday 2-for-£14 cocktails accompanied by Bingo Beats, and a Sunday pub quiz at 7 pm, ensuring there’s always something happening.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Friday: 12:00 pm – Midnight
- Saturday: 11:30 am – Midnight
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Ridley Road Market Bar
Address: 49 Ridley Road, Dalston, E8 2NP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Dalston, East London, Ridley Road Market Bar is situated amidst the vibrant Ridley Road Market. Just a stone’s throw from Dalston Kingsland Overground station, this locale offers easy access and is surrounded by a bustling array of market stalls and local eateries.
- What’s the Vibe? Embracing a retro 70s aesthetic, the bar boasts a chequered dance floor, disco balls, and tropical-themed décor. Its laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere is complemented by friendly staff and a diverse crowd, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a lively yet relaxed night out.
What’s On Offer
- Happy Hour Delights: From Tuesday to Friday, between 6pm and 9pm, patrons can enjoy two cocktails for £11. Signature drinks like the ginger mojito and passion fruit daiquiri slushie are crowd favourites, offering a refreshing start to the evening.
- Eclectic Events and Music: Ridley Road Market Bar is renowned for its diverse event lineup. Regular nights include:
- Club Mix (Saturdays): A blend of disco, 90s R&B, house, and pop.
- Icons Only (Fridays): Celebrating dancefloor legends from various eras.
- 90s Baby: A nostalgic journey through 90s hits.
- Caliente Caliente: An energetic mix of salsa, cumbia, reggaeton, and Latin classics.
- Entry Details: Free entry is available from Tuesday to Thursday and before 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. After 10pm on weekends, a £6 cover charge applies.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 6pm – 2am
- Thursday to Saturday: 6pm – 3am
- Bank Holiday Sundays: 6pm – 3am
Ready to Visit?
Dalston is a buzzing pocket of East London that blends vibrant nightlife with a strong sense of community spirit. Just a short walk from Dalston Kingsland Station, you’ll find an eclectic mix of venues – from the retro Ridley Road Market Bar with its disco balls and happy hour slushies, to the cosy, globally inspired Speakeasy tucked away on Ashwin Street. Whether you’re after a casual pint, craft cocktail, or a night of dancing, Dalston has something to suit every mood.
Share the Love
Why not check out Ridley Road Market Bar or The Speakeasy on your next night out? If you enjoy your visit, share this guide with your mates and don’t forget to leave a review – it helps others discover the best of Dalston too.
