If you’re passing through or popping out at London City Airport DLR, you’re in luck – there are a few surprisingly decent bars and pubs tucked just outside your flight zone. Whether you’re looking for convenience before a flight or a cheeky local pint, this mini‑roundup has you covered.
The Fox Connaught
Address: Lynx Way, London, E16 1JR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in London’s Royal Docks, The Fox Connaught sits a five‑minute stroll from ExCeL London and just steps from Prince Regent DLR station. It’s also around 2.4 km from London City Airport.
- What’s the Vibe? A Grade II‑listed Victorian pub with a cosy, wood‑panelled interior and a friendly, neighbourhood feel. It exudes informal charm and is popular with ExCeL visitors and locals alike.
What’s On Offer
- Classic Pub Fare & Drinks: A tempting menu of hearty British dishes and pub snacks, paired with a wide selection of craft beers, wines and soft drinks.
- Garden Terrace & Outdoor Events: Features a spacious outdoor terrace (up to 200 standing), ideal for BBQs, live sport screenings or seasonal events.
- Live Entertainment & Weekly Events: Hosts live music every Saturday evening (funk, RnB, Motown, disco, ’90s and garage), plus pub quizzes every Thursday, Six Nations rugby screenings and a ‘double up’ spirit offer.
- Private Hire & Events: Offers versatile spaces including a private dining room for up to 60 seated (100 standing), plus the terrace for larger receptions and corporate functions.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: 07:30–23:00
- Friday–Saturday: 07:30–00:00
- Sunday: 07:30–22:30
The Windjammer
Address: 25 Admiralty Avenue, Silvertown, E16 2PN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on the banks of the Thames in Royal Wharf, East London, it’s just a short walk from Pontoon Dock DLR, with glorious views that stretch out to the Thames Barrier.
- What’s the Vibe? A chic yet family-friendly riverside pub with sleek glass-fronted, split‑level interiors and a bright outdoor terrace. It’s warm and relaxed, ideal for families, friends, couples and even those working remotely.
What’s On Offer
- Fresh Seasonal Pub Classics: The menu highlights quality, seasonally-sourced ingredients in traditional Fuller’s pub dishes like fish and chips, hearty roasts and gourmet burgers. Diners consistently praise the flavours and execution.
- Saturday Bottomless Brunch: A popular treat: for £35 per person, enjoy a breakfast main plus unlimited selected cocktails over 1.5 hours, available every Saturday from 11:00 to 14:00.
- Stunning Mezzanine and Outdoor Terrace: A mezzanine area perfect for semi-private gatherings (up to 100 guests seated), plus a riverside terrace seating 80+, both ideal for events, parties or just a sunny drink.
- Ideal For Private Hire: Bookable mezzanine and full‑venue options, with catering, PA system, and private bar facilities from minimum spends of around £2,500–£10,000 depending on size and day.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Monday–Friday from 12:00 to 23:00; Saturday 11:00–23:00; Sunday 12:00–21:00. Kitchen closes around 21:00 (20:00 on Sundays).
WXYZ Bar
Address: Aloft London Excel, London, E16 1FR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled within the Aloft London ExCeL hotel right by Royal Victoria Dock, the bar overlooks the docks and the ExCeL exhibition centre. Positioned just a short walk from Prince Regent DLR and a ten-minute stroll from the Elizabeth Line, it enjoys a prime spot in the Docklands celebrity hot‑spot.
- What’s the Vibe? A contemporary, upbeat venue with high ceilings, modern décor and sweeping views. Warm lighting, plush seating and a lively soundtrack – from acoustic sets to DJ mixes – give it a social, yet relaxed ambience that’s ideal for after‑hours mingling.
What’s On Offer
- Specialty cocktails & seasonal bites: The bar features an extensive drinks menu of signature cocktails, alongside light seasonal nibbles, available day and night. It also connects seamlessly with the hotel’s Re:Fuel grab‑and‑go pantry.
- Live music & events space: With a mix of acoustic performances and DJ sets, the bar hosts regular live‑music nights. The flexible space, which can be split into four sections, can cater for up to 300 guests for events – with the option of bowl food or canapés and AV support. Ideal for networking or casual corporate events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open 24 hours.
Ready to Visit?
If you find yourself near London City Airport, you’re in a surprisingly decent spot for a pre‑flight pint or a relaxed riverside drink. From the laid-back, wood-panelled charm of The Fox Connaught near ExCeL, to the stylish, family-friendly setting of The Windjammer in Royal Wharf, there’s something to suit every taste. For a more contemporary vibe, WXYZ Bar at Aloft London Excel offers late-night cocktails and live music just steps from the DLR.
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Tried one of these Docklands gems? Share this article with your travel mates, leave a review after your visit, and spread the word to fellow pub-loving flyers. Cheers!
