Ready for a pint in Hackney? This vibrant London borough is bursting with quirky bars and traditional pubs, each oozing its own unique charm. From cosy, candlelit corners to buzzing beer gardens, Hackney’s nightlife is as diverse as its crowd. Whether you’re after craft beers, artisan cocktails, or just a good old-fashioned ale, this eclectic area has got you covered. So, let’s raise a glass to Hackney – where every night feels like a new adventure!
The Cock Tavern
Address: 315 Mare St, London E8 1EJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Cock Tavern is situated in a central and accessible location in Hackney, just a short distance from Hackney Central Station. Its history as a former Trumans pub adds to its character.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub has a timeless classic feel, with an interior of buffed wood and comfortably scuffed furniture, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s popular among locals and visitors alike for its unpretentious and relaxed environment.
What’s On Offer:
- Cask Ales and Craft Beers: The Cock Tavern is renowned for its impressive range of ales. It hosts a variety of ever-changing cask ales, mainly from local breweries such as Hackney, Five Points, and Howling Hops. The pub also features a selection of real ciders and trendy craft keg brews. Notably, it is the home of the Howling Hops Brewery, and many of their beers are available on tap.
- Simple, Tasty Snacks: While the pub does not offer a full kitchen, it provides simple yet satisfying fare such as Scotch eggs, pork pies, and a selection of pickled eggs. This complements the wide range of drinks available.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? The Cock Tavern’s opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Cock Tavern is a destination for those who appreciate fine ales and a traditional pub atmosphere. Its location, coupled with its selection of locally sourced beers and simple, yet delicious snacks, make it a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic London pub experience.
Pub on the Park
Address: 19 Martello St, London E8 3PE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Pub on the Park sits on the edge of London Fields, offering a scenic and vibrant atmosphere.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is known for its large terrace that offers spectacular views of the park, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find various rooms, open fires, and big screens for major sporting events. The venue is characterised by a homely and friendly ambiance, making it a great spot for both casual visits and special occasions.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drink Options: Pub on the Park offers a range of bar and British pub cuisines, with options for vegetarian and vegan diets. The menu is praised for its good quality, with prices ranging from £8 to £15. The pub provides a variety of beers, with options for tasters, and a selection of wines.
- Events and Functions: The pub hosts major sporting events on their big screens and often has DJ nights and other events. It has two function rooms for various events, including private parties, without a hire fee.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open seven days a week, with the following hours: Monday to Thursday from 12 PM to 11 PM, Friday to Saturday from 12 PM to 1 AM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 11 PM.
Cat + Mutton
Address: 76 Broadway Market, London E8 4RA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Cat + Mutton is nestled in the lively area of Broadway Market, it’s well-positioned amidst the bustle of London’s East End.
- What’s the Vibe? The Cat + Mutton boasts a blend of traditional pub charm with a contemporary twist. It provides a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The venue spans two floors, featuring a lively ground floor for enjoying a range of beers, wines, and spirits, and a cosy cocktail bar upstairs offering classic cocktails in a more intimate setting.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drink Options: The Cat + Mutton offers a diverse menu catering to various tastes, including options for vegans. The menu comprises traditional pub food, roast dinners, small plates, and British cuisine. The venue is also known for its extensive selection of beers, ales, wines, and spirits, including a seasonal menu of mixed drinks available at the cocktail bar upstairs.
- Varied Entertainment and Events: The pub is known for its varied entertainment options. Tuesdays feature a Pub Quiz, while on weekends, the place transforms into a lively party spot with DJs playing a mix of funk, soul, and disco. The Sunday Recovery Sessions with their substantial Sunday Roast are particularly popular.
Practical Info
- Opening Hours: The pub operates with varying hours throughout the week. From Monday to Wednesday, it opens from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM. On Thursdays, it remains open until midnight, and on Fridays and Saturdays, it extends till 1:00 AM. Sundays have slightly shorter hours, closing at 10:30 PM. The kitchen has its own set of operating hours, generally closing an hour before the pub.
The Prince Arthur
Address: 95 Forest Rd, London E8 3BH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Prince Arthur is nestled in the vibrant area of Forest Road in London.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is known for its traditional charm and friendly atmosphere. It’s a cosy, laid-back place, ideal for quiet conversations and is often bustling with a neighborhood feel. The interior combines high-quality fittings with well-worn wooden tables and classic pub signage, creating a charming and traditional ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Menu Highlights: The Prince Arthur offers a seasonally changing menu featuring both small and large plates. Notable dishes include Pickled Beetroot Salad, Fermented Scotch Bonnet with Butter Corn Bread, and British Sobrasada Croquettes. Their Sunday Roasts are a particular highlight, with options like Roast Chicken and Roasted Pork Collar, all served with traditional accompaniments.
- Special Events: The venue hosts various events, including quiz nights and live music, contributing to its lively atmosphere. It has also earned a reputation for attracting talented chefs and hosting gastronomical pop-ups, enhancing its culinary offerings.
- Dog, Group & Family-Friendly: The pub is dog-friendly and suitable for group dining, including families with children.
- Outdoor Seating: It features an outdoor seating area, making it ideal for alfresco dining experiences during pleasant weather.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Prince Arthur is open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM. It’s advisable to visit during weekday evenings for more chances of finding a table, especially if you’re interested in their popular dishes like the Sunday roast, burgers, and aged steaks.
The Prince Arthur is a classic London pub that combines traditional ambiance with contemporary culinary offerings, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors in the area.
The Dove
Address: 24-28 Broadway Market, London E8 4QJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Dove is situated in the vibrant and bustling area of Broadway Market in London. This location, known for its lively market scene, adds to the charm and appeal of the pub.
- What’s the Vibe? The Dove is described as a Belgian beer haven, offering a cosy and traditional ambiance. It’s an old-fashioned building with oak interiors and an oversubscribed bar, giving it the feel of a Continental tavern. The atmosphere is generally buzzing, apart from weekday lunches which are quieter and suitable for intimate dining. The pub is frequented by a trendy community, making it a popular post-market pitstop or afternoon party venue.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Belgian Beer Collection: The Dove boasts an impressive selection of Belgian brews, including Trappist, gueuze, and fruit beers. The pub is well-regarded for its beer culture, offering a wide range of rare and obscure beers alongside popular choices.
- Belgian Cuisine and Diverse Menu: Along with its renowned beer collection, The Dove also serves a variety of dishes. Their menu includes global favorites like burgers and bangers, as well as specials such as crab and smoked salmon risotto. Moules marinière is a popular choice, often seen steaming from the kitchen. There are also vegetarian-friendly options available. For a more intimate experience, weekday lunches are recommended as they tend to be quieter, offering a chance to enjoy the pub’s cosy corners and diverse beer selection in a more relaxed setting.
- Dog-friendly: It is dog-friendly, making it a good choice for pet owners.
- Group-friendly: The Dove is also noted for being suitable for celebrations and group dining.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Dove is open from noon to 11 PM from Monday to Thursday and on Sundays. On Fridays and Saturdays, it extends its hours to midnight, with food served until 10 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends.
The Crown
Address: 418 Mare St, London E8 1HP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crown is situated in a vibrant area, easily accessible with public transport, and surrounded by various restaurants and attractions.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, offering a cosy and charming experience. It seamlessly blends a traditional pub environment with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for both locals and travelers.
What’s On Offer
- Accommodation and Amenities: The Crown offers well-appointed rooms, featuring amenities such as free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms. Reviews highlight the clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. The pub also provides an inviting bar and lounge area, adding to the overall appeal of the guesthouse.
- Entertainment and Dining: The pub downstairs is a highlight, known for its fantastic pizza and a great selection for drinks. Guests enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the pub, which often hosts various events and has a welcoming vibe for both eating and socialising.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every day 10:00-23:00.
Overall, The Crown offers a blend of comfort, convenience, and character, making it a distinctive and enjoyable place to stay or visit in London. With its accessible location, modern amenities, and the lively ambiance of the pub, it caters well to both short-term visitors and longer stays.
The Empire Bar
Address: 291 Mare St, London E8 1EJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Empire Bar is situated in Hackney, London. The closest tube station is Bethnal Green, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Empire Bar is widely appreciated for its beauty and the presence of plants that add to the ambiance. It’s known for hosting events like poetry evenings, live jazz and album launches, creating a lively and culturally rich environment. The bar staff are known for being quick to serve and friendly, contributing to the overall welcoming atmosphere.
What’s On Offer:
- Food and Drink: The Empire Bar offers a good selection of wines and food at reasonable prices. Highlights include great vegan options and a variety of drinks, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of preferences.
- Live Events and Music: One of the standout aspects of The Empire Bar is its array of events, particularly its live jazz on Wednesdays and various other events throughout the week. These events contribute significantly to the venue’s vibrant atmosphere.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?: The venue operates from 10:00 to 18:00 from Monday to Saturday. On Fridays and Saturdays, it remains open until 2:00 am, catering to the late-night crowd.
Overall, The Empire Bar is highly rated for its events, friendly staff, reasonable prices, and enjoyable atmosphere.
Off Broadway
Address: 63-65 Broadway Market, London E8 4PH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Located in the vibrant area of Hackney, near Haggerston Station, Off Broadway is a bar that captures the essence of New York’s East Village in East London.
- What’s the Vibe? Off Broadway offers a unique atmosphere, combining the artistic heritage of its former life as an art gallery with a modern, eclectic charm. The interior features chic decor with dark wood and dim lighting, creating an inviting and stylish ambiance. The venue is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially as the evening progresses, making it a popular spot for a diverse crowd.
What’s On Offer:
- Notable Beers and Cocktails: Off Broadway boasts a carefully curated selection of drinks, including classic cocktails like the Manhattan and innovative house specials. The bar also offers a selection of American beers such as Brooklyn Lager and Anchor Steam.
- Eclectic Events: Regular gigs and a unique knitting club are among the diverse events hosted at Off Broadway.
- Food Offerings: The venue also serves LA-style Mexican food, including burritos and tacos, complemented by a global wine list.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Saturday to Sunday from 12 pm to 11 pm.
Off Broadway stands out for its unique blend of an artsy New York vibe, eclectic events, and a diverse drinks menu. Its vibrant atmosphere and intriguing offerings make it a notable spot in the London bar scene.
The Gun
Address: 235 Well St, London E9 6FE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? This East London pub, nestled in the vibrant area of Hackney, is a historic site that has been a part of the local scene since around 1860. The exterior maintains its Edwardian charm, while the interior is a blend of traditional and modern styles, with neon signs and mirrors adding to its eclectic vibe.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere at The Gun is a unique mix of traditional pub charm and contemporary flair. It’s known for its cool and inviting ambiance, making it a popular hangout spot in Hackney. The pub has been recognised as one of the best in the area, attracting a diverse crowd with its combination of historical appeal and modern touches.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Drink and Food Menu: The Gun serves a variety of beers from independent brewers, artisan spirits, carefully selected wines, and classic cocktails. The current kitchen is provided by Ling Lings, offering Modern Chinese/Vietnamese inspired dishes. Patrons rave about the delicious noodles, wontons, spicy cauliflower, miso pork salad, and steak.
- Unique Features and Events: The pub stands out for its delightful roof terrace, which adds a special touch to the dining and social experience. It is also a venue for live music and sports events, enhancing its reputation as a dynamic and engaging space. Additionally, The Gun supports a local football team, Gun FC, emphasising its community involvement.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday-Thursday: 5 pm-Midnight
- Friday: 5 pm-1 am
- Saturday: 11 am-1 am
- Sunday: 11 am-11 pm.
The Gun offers a distinctive blend of history, modernity, community spirit, and diverse culinary and drink options, making it a cherished local establishment and a must-visit destination for those in the area.
Heart of Hackney
Address: 255 Mare St, London E8 3NS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Heart of Hackney is situated in a location rich in history, and has undergone several name changes over the years. Formerly known as Hobson’s Choice, Amp, Maddigan’s, Anatolia Bar, and Horse and Groom, the pub’s history dates back to at least 1593, adding a historical charm to its presence.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub offers a traditional, ungentrified setting, making it a warm and welcoming destination for visitors. Its spacious interior is ideal for groups, and the atmosphere is often described as friendly and inviting. The venue combines a sense of history with a contemporary vibe, making it a unique spot in Hackney.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Cuisine: Heart of Hackney stands out for its offering of Turkish and Lebanese cuisines, providing a unique culinary experience. This addition of diverse flavors to a traditional pub setting is a significant draw for patrons looking for a varied dining experience.
- Entertainment and Leisure: The venue is equipped with 4 pool tables, catering to those looking for leisure and entertainment. Additionally, its covered and heated garden area is a popular spot for watching rugby matches, making it an ideal location for sports enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Thursday, it’s open from 3 PM to 11 PM. On Fridays, the hours extend from 12 PM to 12 AM. Saturdays see an even later closing at 12:30 AM, while Sundays operate from 12 PM to 11 PM.
Heart of Hackney offers a blend of traditional pub culture with modern amenities and diverse cuisine, making it a notable destination in London’s vibrant Hackney area. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal, play pool, or watch sports in a friendly atmosphere, this venue has much to offer.
Ready to Visit?
Embark on a journey through Hackney’s vibrant nightlife, a London borough renowned for its eclectic mix of bars and pubs. Each venue in Hackney offers a unique experience, from the cosy, candlelit ambience of traditional pubs to the lively buzz of beer gardens. Notable spots like The Cock Tavern and Pub on the Park stand out for their distinct offerings. The Cock Tavern, a haven for ale enthusiasts, boasts a wide selection of local ales and ciders, while Pub on the Park charms with its tranquil atmosphere and scenic park views. Whether you’re a fan of craft beers, artisan cocktails, or classic ales, Hackney’s diverse nightlife promises an unforgettable experience.
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Why not dive into the dynamic world of Hackney’s bars? Try out places like The Cock Tavern or Pub on the Park for a taste of local flavours and share your experience with friends. Don’t forget to spread the word about these gems and post a review after your visit. Your adventure through Hackney’s spirited nightlife awaits!