Ready for a tipple in Havering? This East London borough might not be the first place you think of for a night out, but it’s brimming with hidden gems. From cosy traditional pubs oozing with character to trendy bars serving up the latest craft beers, Havering’s nightlife has a bit of everything. Whether you’re after a quiet pint in a historic setting or keen to sample some local live music with your cocktail, this guide’s got you covered. So, chuck on your best outfit and let’s dive into the best bars and pubs Havering has to offer – you’re in for a surprise!
Orange Tree
Address: Havering-atte-Bower, Romford RM4 1PJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Orange Tree is nestled on a green plateau surrounded by forest, offering a peaceful and serene location just a stone’s throw from Bedfords Park.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional pub, dating back to 1816, exudes warmth and friendliness, characterised by its open log fires and comfortable seating. It’s an inviting place that blends traditional pub elements with a modern finish, creating a cosy atmosphere ideal for socialising, eating, and drinking.
What’s On Offer
- Rustic Charm and Cuisine: The Orange Tree is known for its rustic charm and offers a classic British pub cuisine. It’s a great spot for casual drinks and dining, featuring real ales, fine wines, and seasonal menus.
- Events and Activities: The pub hosts various events, including a popular family quiz night, which adds to its lively atmosphere.
- Outdoor Seating: The outdoor garden is a highlight, particularly in summer, offering a great space that is also dog-friendly.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Orange Tree is open seven days a week. From Monday to Thursday, it operates from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, it extends its hours to 12:00 am, and on Sundays, it closes at 11:00 pm.
Overall, The Orange Tree offers a blend of traditional pub experience with modern touches, set in a tranquil and picturesque location, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors.
The Ship
Address: 93 Main Rd, Romford RM2 5EL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Ship is conveniently located at the center of Main Road, offering easy access from both Romford Town Centre and Gidea Park Station.
- What’s the Vibe? The Ship is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, blending a traditional English pub feel with a touch of modernity. It stands as a historic pub in Romford with a heritage dating back nearly 250 years, boasting a Grade II listed building that retains its Old English style with low beams, panelling, and a woodburner in a fine brick fireplace. Its old wooden beams and charming interior add to its character, making it a place of warm and friendly ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Home-Cooked Food: The Ship prides itself on its home-cooked food, including customer favorites like cheese and bacon burgers, homemade crumble with custard, beer-battered fish & chips, classic nachos, hunters chicken, and a seafood cocktail. These dishes represent the pub’s commitment to quality and taste.
- Weekly Events: The venue is also known for hosting weekly events, adding to its vibrant community appeal. It regularly organises quiz nights and live music on Saturdays, fostering a lively and engaging environment.
- Charity Initiatives: Additionally, The Ship is involved in charity initiatives, reflecting its commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12 noon – 11 PM
- Friday: 12 noon – 12 AM
- Saturday: 12 noon – 12 AM
- Sunday: 12 noon – 11 PM
It’s important to note that the food service times vary from the pub opening times. The day menu is served Monday to Friday from 12-4 PM and on Saturday from 12-6 PM. The evening menu is available Monday to Tuesday from 5-8 PM and Wednesday to Friday from 5-9 PM. Last orders are taken 10 minutes before the kitchen closes
The New Inn
Address: Squirrels Heath Ln, Gidea Park, Romford RM2 6DP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The New Inn is situated in Gidea Park, Romford. The pub is nestled in a neighborhood setting, providing a local and intimate feel.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of classic British pubs. It’s known for its local feel, with a décor that harks back to traditional pub aesthetics. The venue features a U-shaped bar and offers a relaxed environment, making it a perfect spot for casual gatherings and socialising.
What’s On Offer
- Live Entertainment: One of the key attractions of The New Inn is its live entertainment, available on Friday and Saturday nights, adding a lively touch to the evenings.
- Sports Viewing: Additionally, the pub is equipped with multiple screens for showing Sky Sports, making it a go-to place for watching live sports events.
- Outdoor Seating and Family-Friendly Environment: The pub boasts outdoor seating options, including a decked area and a grassed beer garden. This outdoor space is complemented by a children’s play area, complete with a climbing frame, swings, and a slide, making it a family-friendly venue.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?: The New Inn is open every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, between 12:00 PM and 11:00 PM.
The New Inn in Gidea Park is a charming and traditional British pub that offers a warm and friendly environment, live entertainment, sports viewing, and a family-friendly outdoor area. Its traditional pub grub, regular live music, and sports TV, along with a well-kept beer garden, make it a cherished spot for locals and visitors.
The Bell & Gate
Address: 248 Collier Row Ln, Romford RM5 3JB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bell & Gate is in the Collier Row region, not far from Romford station, which is about 1.62 miles away.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue offers a traditional British pub experience with a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. It is ideal for casual drinks or gatherings, providing a friendly environment suitable for a quiet pint or an evening with friends.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Ales and Diverse Drink Selection: The Bell & Gate prides itself on serving a variety of traditional ales. Alongside these, they offer a selection of wines and spirits, catering to a wide range of tastes.
- Facilities and Entertainment: The pub is equipped with a beer garden, making it an excellent spot for outdoor socialising. It also features TNT Sports and Sky Sports for sporting events, a dartboard, and a pool table, adding to the entertainment options available. The pub is dog-friendly and has an accessible toilet, enhancing its inclusivity.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Food service is available from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily.
The Bull
Address: 74-76 Market Pl, Romford RM1 3ER
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Bull is situated in the heart of Romford, making it an easily accessible spot for locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The Bull boasts a welcoming atmosphere, characterised by its lively and friendly environment. It’s known for offering great value and good service, making it a popular choice for both casual and regular visitors. The pub also features a beer garden, ideal for enjoying drinks in the summer.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drink Selection: The Bull offers a wide range of pub food, including a variety of burgers and a notable mac ‘n’ cheese topped burger. Its menu extends from breakfast to dinner, catering to a range of dietary preferences. The pub is also known for its drinks selection, offering 2-4-1 deals on cocktails all day, every day.
- Entertainment and Events: This pub is not just about food and drinks; it’s a hub for entertainment. Regular events include DJ sessions, live sports screenings like the Six Nations and Formula One, and special events such as “Back to the 80s” parties. These activities cater to a diverse crowd, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Saturday: 11:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 20:00
- Special hours apply during holidays.
With its combination of great food, an extensive drink selection, and a range of entertainment options, The Bull in Romford is a lively and inviting venue suitable for a range of occasions, from casual drinks to celebratory nights out.
The Sun Public House
Address: 47 London Rd, Romford RM7 9QA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sun Public House is conveniently situated near the Havering Museum, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors in Romford.
- What’s the Vibe? The Sun Public House is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere. It’s a large pub with a diverse clientele, offering a lively ambiance filled with friendly banter between the staff and customers. The pub also boasts an outdoor area, perfect for families, and screens for sports enthusiasts. Visitors can expect a great mix of music catering to various age groups, adding to the pub’s enjoyable setting.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drink Selection: Notably, The Sun Public House serves delicious Chinese cuisine, with standout dishes like prawn with cashew nuts and salt & chilli ribs. The pub is also known for its excellent beer selection, ensuring that visitors have a variety of beverages to choose from.
- Special Features: The pub offers a range of features like outdoor seating, live music, and sports screenings. They are also known for hosting events, such as private parties, with facilities like a private room and a bar available at no extra cost.
Practical Info
When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:30 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Sun Public House in Romford is a lively and welcoming venue, offering a range of amenities from delicious food and drinks to entertainment options like live music and sports screenings. Its warm atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Hop Inn
Address: 122 North St, Hornchurch RM11 1SU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Hop Inn is situated in Hornchurch, Essex. It’s a short walk from Emerson Park Station and easily accessible by various bus routes. The pub is within walking distance of Hornchurch Town Centre and close to The Queens Theatre.
- What’s the Vibe? The Hop Inn is a micropub known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It eschews typical pub distractions like TVs and slot machines, focusing instead on creating a welcoming environment for enjoying fresh ale, real cider, craft beer, gin, whisky, and wine.
What’s On Offer
- Beer and Ale Selection: The Hop Inn prides itself on a wide range of beers, ciders, and wines. It’s part of the micropub movement, emphasising quality drinks, including real ales and craft beers.
- Regular Events and Whisky Tasting: The venue is known for hosting a variety of events throughout the year, including whisky tasting sessions. The knowledgeable staff offer personalised recommendations and ensure a unique experience for each visitor.
- Recognition: The Hop Inn has been recognised as an exceptional pub, having been named the best pub in London by CAMRA, a testament to its quality and popularity.
- Note on Food: It’s worth mentioning that the Hop Inn doesn’t serve meals, but it does offer snacks like crisps to accompany your drinks.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 4pm – 10pm
- Wednesday: 4pm – 10pm
- Thursday: 2pm – 10.30pm
- Friday: 2pm – 10.30pm
- Saturday: 12 noon – 10.30pm
- Sunday: 12 noon – 9pm
This overview provides a glimpse into what makes The Hop Inn a cherished spot in Hornchurch, offering a unique pub experience with a focus on quality drinks and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Crown
Address: 360 Hornchurch Rd, Hornchurch RM12 4TW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crown is a pub located in Hornchurch. It’s accessible by local transport and is near Elm Park Underground Station. This location places it conveniently for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Crown in Hornchurch provides a modern twist on the classic pub experience. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, especially during live music events and themed nights. Patrons appreciate the friendly bar staff and the prompt service.
What’s On Offer
- Live Entertainment and Themed Nights: The Crown is famous for its live music, with bands performing several nights a week, including open mic/jam nights. Visitors have enjoyed performances by bands like The Devils Punchbowl and have praised the variety of music. Themed nights, such as fancy dress events, are also popular, adding a fun and engaging twist to the typical pub night out.
- Food and Drink Options: While primarily known for its drinks and entertainment, The Crown also serves food. Patrons enjoy buffet offerings on special event nights, with a wide range of choices and tasty options. The pub offers a variety of beers, wines, real ales, spirits, and an extensive gin range, catering to diverse preferences.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Crown in Hornchurch offers a dynamic pub experience with its combination of live entertainment, themed nights, and a range of food and drink options. Its modern approach to the traditional pub setup, along with its engaging atmosphere, makes it a notable destination in the Hornchurch area.
The Wheatsheaf
Address: 45 Wheatsheaf Rd, Romford RM1 2HD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Wheatsheaf is situated on the outskirts of Romford town center, a short 5-minute walk from Romford train station. Buses frequently run in Brentwood Road, right outside the pub.
- What’s the Vibe? The Wheatsheaf offers a traditional pub atmosphere with a historic interior. It maintains its original structure with a split between public and saloon bars. The public bar includes a pool table and dartboard, contributing to its local, backstreet pub charm. The saloon bar, with more comfortable furnishings, provides a more relaxed seating area. The pub is recognised for maintaining its inter-war architectural and interior features, adding to its historic charm.
What’s On Offer
- Historic and Traditional Setting: The Wheatsheaf is on CAMRA’s Regional Inventory of pubs with historic interiors, highlighting its commitment to maintaining traditional pub elements. This includes original wood panelling and a structure that reflects its inter-war origins.
- Live Entertainment and Community Focus: This pub is not just about drinks; it’s a hub for community activities and entertainment. Regular events include karaoke nights and live music, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for visitors.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM (next day)
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
These details offer a glimpse into the unique experience of visiting The Wheatsheaf, a pub that prides itself on its traditional charm, historic significance, and community-centered activities.
The Chequers
Address: 121 North St, Hornchurch RM11 1ST
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Chequers is located at 121 North St, Hornchurch, RM11 1ST. This venue offers a blend of traditional pub charm and modern amenities.
- What’s the Vibe? The Chequers is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, characterised by a delightful mix of old school charm and modern enjoyment. It’s a place where guests can relax and enjoy warm & attentive hospitality.
What’s On Offer
- Exceptional Food and Drinks: The Chequers is celebrated for its quality food and drinks. The menu includes a range of delicious dishes, including pub classics and more innovative offerings. Guests can also enjoy a good selection of drinks, including cocktails made to order.
- Entertainment and Activities: The venue is equipped for entertainment with a games room, Sky TV, and darts, making it a great place for social gatherings. The pub regularly hosts a darts team and other social activities, adding to its lively ambiance.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
The Chequers in Hornchurch stands out for its combination of traditional pub atmosphere with modern facilities, excellent food, and a range of activities and entertainment options. It’s a local venue that promises a pleasant and lively experience for its visitors.
Ready to Visit?
Havering, an East London borough, offers a delightful mix of traditional and trendy bars, perfect for a variety of tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint in a historic pub or a lively evening with cocktails and live music, Havering has it all. Notable mentions include the Orange Tree, a rustic pub with a picturesque garden and a selection of real ales, and The Ship, known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer and cocktail menu. These establishments, along with others in the area, provide a surprising and enjoyable night out in Havering.
Share the Love
If you’re planning a night out in Havering, why not start at one of these fantastic bars? Whether it’s the rustic charm of the Orange Tree or the lively buzz of The Ship, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let them in on Havering’s best-kept secrets. And once you’ve experienced the nightlife here, we’d love to hear about your adventures – leave a review and spread the word about Havering’s vibrant bar scene!