If you’ve hopped off at Abbey Road DLR in East London (West Ham), you’re in for a treat! The area around here might not be as famous as the Beatles’ Abbey Road, but it’s bubbling with character. Nearby, you’ll find a mix of classic pubs and modern bars that cater to all moods – whether you’re after a traditional pint in a comfy lounge or a slick cocktail in a contemporary setting. Expect relaxed locals, plenty of screens for footy or darts, and patios perfect for people‑watching. From hidden gems to lively favourites, there’s a spot for every kind of night – no zebra crossing required!
The Abbey Tap
Address: 12–14 The Broadway, Stratford, E15 4QS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Stratford, just a stone’s throw from Stratford station and amid the vibrant Broadway district, The Abbey Tap is hard to miss.
- What’s the Vibe? A modern, city-style sports pub with an open‑plan layout, plenty of screens, and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. It’s spacious enough for day‑time catch-ups and turns into a buzzy social hub later on.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beer & Prosecco Galore: Celebrated for its extensive range of craft beers, real ales and bubbly prosecco, alongside premium cocktails, gin, rum and whiskeys.
- Casual Dining with a Kick: A well‑curated menu featuring burgers, pizzas, tapas, sharer boards (keep an eye out for pizza cones) and sweet treats. Plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans and those avoiding gluten.
- Sporting Events & Live Entertainment: Sky, TNT and Viaplay screens throughout; big on major sports – football, American football, wrestling, rugby – plus karaoke nights and a DJ on occasion. Also offers bottomless brunch events, award‑winning in 2023.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday & Sunday: 12:00–23:00
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00–01:00 (Kitchen closes around 21:00)
- Children are welcome before 18:00, but under‑18s must leave after this time
The Print House at Jim & Tonic East
Address: 133 High Street, Stratford, E15 2RB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled alongside the canal on Sugar House Island, The Print House is just a short stroll from Pudding Mill Lane Station in Stratford. It’s part of the vibrant Jim & Tonic East complex on High Street, complete with riverside terrace and waterside views.
- What’s the Vibe? A converted warehouse with an industrial‑chic feel, this multi‑area venue blends relaxed dining, buzzing bar culture, and riverside atmosphere. The mood is fun, social and versatile – perfect for casual catch‑ups, post‑match drinks, or event nights.
What’s On Offer
- On‑Site Distillery & Tours: Home to the Jim & Tonic gin distillery, it offers behind‑the‑scenes tastings and tours – plus a bold menu of artisan G&Ts made from their own spirits.
- Modern Cuisine, Pizza & Burgers: The Print House restaurant serves modern‑fusion European dishes, including sharing small plates, gourmet pizzas, hearty burgers, and brunch options.
- Outdoor Courtyard & Entertainment: The courtyard area by the canal features a lively bus bar, table‑tennis, outdoor screenings of live sport, DJs and live music – great for summer socialising.
- Weekly Specials:
- 50 % off pizzas on Mondays
- Half‑price burgers on Tuesdays
- £6 Margherita pizza + £6 Margarita on Wednesdays
- 2‑for‑1 on Jim & Tonic spirits + live DJ on Fridays
- 50 % off food on Sundays (5–7 pm; reservation required)
- Live Events & Sport: Regular quiz nights, DJ sets, live music, and large‑screen broadcasts of West Ham matches and other sports.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Mon–Fri: 08:00–23:00
- Sat: 08:00–23:00
- Sun: 08:00–23:00
The Print House at Jim & Tonic East
The Black Lion
Address: 59–61 High Street, Plaistow, E13 0AD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked on Plaistow High Street in East London, just a short stroll (about 5 minutes) from Plaistow tube station, The Black Lion sits in a bustling suburban centre with strong community ties.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a former 18th-century coaching inn (rebuilt 1742), it exudes traditional charm. Expect wood‑panelled interiors, exposed beams, two cosy bar rooms (with a unique walkthrough servery), and a laid-back, local atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Real Ales & Beers: A haven for cask‑ale enthusiasts, featuring a regular Mighty Oak Captain Bob bitter alongside three rotating guest ales such as Sharp’s Doom Bar and Timothy Taylor Landlord.
- Pub Grub & Hot Specials: Well‑priced classic fare served weekdays lunchtimes (12–2.30 pm) and evenings (5–7.30 pm). Look out for homemade soups, steak & ale pie, fish of the day, jacket potatoes and cold platters – plus specials to accompany West Ham matches.
- Function Room & Courtyard Stables: Converted from old stables and outbuildings, this space is available for private hire or group events, adding a unique touch.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Saturday: 12:00–23:00
- Sunday: 12:00–22:30
- Food service Mon–Fri: 12:00–14:30 & 17:00–19:30; none at weekends
Escape Bar
Address: 25 West Ham Lane, Stratford, E15 4PH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked just off Stratford High Street, this lively venue sits close to Stratford and Stratford High Street DLR stations – an easy walk from the shopping and transport hub.
- What’s the Vibe? A cosy, laid‑back gaming pub with a Victorian‑era corner‑local charm. Think board and video games, occasional live music, quizzes, karaoke and friendly crowds – all in a warm, inclusive East‑London setting.
What’s On Offer
- Board & Video Games Galore: There’s a broad selection of board games plus consoles including PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo. Enjoy a relaxed social space perfect for group gaming. Games and even water are provided free.
- Weekly Events & Entertainment: Weekly quiz nights take place every Monday from 7.30 pm, Tuesdays bring Dungeons & Dragons RPG sessions, and monthly Rock Band karaoke. They also host LGBT+ meet‑ups and cabaret events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Tuesday: 16:00–23:00
- Wednesday–Thursday: 16:00–00:00
- Friday: 16:00–01:00
- Saturday: 14:00–01:00
- Sunday: 14:00–23:00
The Carpenter’s Arms
Address: 17 Carpenters Road, Stratford, E15 2JH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on the edge of Stratford’s Carpenters Estate, just a few minutes’ walk from Stratford Station and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Easily reached via Stratford High Street station (approx. 5 min) or Gibbins Road bus stop (1 min).
- What’s the Vibe? A spacious 1960s estate-style local, plain but welcoming and very “blokey”. With multiple TVs, pool table and darts, it has a strong community-sporting feel, especially on match days.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sport & Local Fans: Popular with West Ham United and Celtic supporters, providing a spirited, communal atmosphere when matches are on. Screens show major football games, and it’s a hub for fans before and after games.
- Drinks Selection & Pub Games: Standard British pub lineup with Tetley’s, local lagers and ales on tap, plus traditional pub games like pool and darts to enjoy.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Mon–Thu: 15:00–23:00
- Fri–Sat: 12:00–01:00
- Sun: 12:00–23:00
Ready to Visit?
Just a stone’s throw from Abbey Road DLR in West Ham, you’ll find a clutch of pubs and bars that reflect the area’s rich blend of local character and evolving East London flair. Whether you’re catching a game at The Carpenter’s Arms, sipping riverside G&Ts at The Print House, or diving into a craft pint at The Abbey Tap, there’s something to suit every mood and moment. This patch of Stratford and Plaistow offers a friendly, unpretentious pub scene with options ranging from traditional boozers to buzzing social hubs and gaming bars.
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