Ready for a night out in Newham? This East London gem is brimming with vibrant bars and cosy pubs that promise more than just a pint. From riverside retreats offering stunning views of the Thames to quirky local haunts steeped in history, Newham’s nightlife scene is as diverse as it is exciting. Whether you’re after craft beers, fancy cocktails, or just a good old-fashioned ale, we’ve got the lowdown on the best spots. So, grab your mates and get ready to explore the best watering holes in Newham – each with its own unique flair and flavour!
The Boleyn Tavern
Address: 1 Barking Rd, London E6 1PW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Boleyn Tavern stands at the intersection of Barking Road and Green Street. The venue is notable for its historical significance and Victorian architecture.
- What’s the Vibe? The Boleyn Tavern exudes a grand Victorian ambiance, often described as cosy, fun, and lively. Its restoration has enhanced its original splendor, making it a visually stunning establishment that combines a sense of history with a welcoming atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Drinks: For drinks, there’s a variety of cask ales from Fullers, Shepherd Neame, Five Points, and craft beers from Beavertown, among others.
- Culinary Delights: The Boleyn Tavern offers a menu of classic British cuisine with options for all, including vegan and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include Gochujang glazed wings, devilled whitebait, a mixed bean, quinoa, and beetroot burger, and grilled cajun chicken supreme.
- Historic and Architectural Significance: The tavern has undergone a £1.5 million restoration, bringing back its Victorian glory. It’s a Grade II-listed building with a history linked to figures like Anne Boleyn, Mahatma Gandhi, and connections to West Ham United. The interior features hand-crafted wooden screens, marble flooring, and an Art Nouveau colored glass skylight, particularly in the former billiards room now housing an open kitchen and dining area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? From Monday to Wednesday, it’s open from 4 pm to 11 pm. On Thursdays, the hours are 12 pm to 11 pm. Fridays and Saturdays see extended hours from 12 pm to 1 am, and on Sundays, the tavern is open from 12 pm to 10 pm.
The Boleyn Tavern stands out not only for its rich history and beautiful restoration but also for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit location in East London.
The Princess Alexandra
Address: 219 Barking Rd, London E16 4HH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Princess Alexandra is in close proximity to Canning Town station, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is known for its traditional East End charm, offering a cosy and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a casual gathering in a typical London pub setting. Reviews highlight its relaxed atmosphere, with a local clientele and an old-school vibe.
What’s On Offer:
- Live Entertainment: One of the key features of The Princess Alexandra is its live entertainment, particularly on Sundays. The pub hosts music events in the afternoons, creating a vibrant and enjoyable environment.
- Sporting Events: For sports enthusiasts, the pub offers a big TV screen for watching sports events. This, coupled with a nice selection of beers, makes it an ideal spot for watching games in a communal setting.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?: The Princess Alexandra is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Overall, The Princess Alexandra stands out for its traditional pub atmosphere, friendly service, and entertaining offerings, making it a beloved spot in the London pub scene.
The Black Lion Pub
Address: 59-61 High St, London E13 0AD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Black Lion Pub is situated just a 2-minute walk from the Plaistow underground station. It’s in proximity to the Excel Exhibition Centre and about 1.25 miles from the Stratford shopping centre. This location makes it accessible and convenient for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, typical of traditional British pubs, with a friendly Irish landlord and family running the place. The interior design captures an old-world charm with elements like a West Ham picture mirror, boxing drawings, and modern amenities like TVs and a jukebox, contributing to a cosy and casual setting. It’s particularly lively during important events like horse races or football matches.
What’s On Offer
- Drinks: The Black Lion boasts a wide selection of real ales, premium quality beers, and a fine collection of wines, spirits, and specialist whiskies. It’s known for its well-kept cask beers from Mighty Oak and Black Sheep, among other mainstream beer options.
- Food: The pub also offers homemade pub food made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, with dishes like steak and ale pie served with mash or chips and fresh vegetables being a highlight.
- Sports, Events, and Facilities: The venue is a hub for sports enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of sports on TV in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It also has a function room available for hire, catering to various events like birthdays, business functions, and music events. Additionally, the pub features a large beer garden and provides free parking for patrons.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Black Lion Pub is open seven days a week, with opening hours from 12 noon to 11:30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 12 noon to 11 pm on Sundays. Food is served from Monday to Friday, except on bank holidays.
The Black Lion Pub is a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and socialising. Its strategic location, combined with its varied offerings, makes it an attractive destination for a diverse range of patrons.
Streeties
Address: 15 Shirley St, London E16 1HU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in a cosy corner of London, Streeties is conveniently situated near Canning Town tube station.
- What’s the Vibe? The ambiance of Streeties is that of a traditional East London pub, offering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where locals mingle with visitors, creating a genuinely pleasant and relaxed environment. The vibe is described as “cosy” and “welcoming,” making it a favorite local pub among its patrons.
What’s On Offer
- Excellent Beer Selection: Streeties is renowned for its impressive selection of beers. Patrons have consistently praised the quality and variety of beers available, making it a go-to destination for beer enthusiasts.
- Cosy Atmosphere and Friendly Staff: The pub is celebrated for its cosy atmosphere, enhanced by its friendly and attentive staff. Reviews frequently mention the congeniality and warmth of the staff, contributing significantly to the overall experience at Streeties.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open seven days a week with varying hours. From Monday to Saturday, it opens at 11:00 and closes at 23:00. On Sundays, it’s open from 12:00 to 22:00.
Streeties stands out as a charming and friendly pub in East London, known for its excellent beer selection and cosy atmosphere. Its accessibility and welcoming staff make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
The Abbey Arms
Address: 384 Barking Rd, London E13 8HL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Abbey Arms is situated close to Plaistow station, approximately 0.71 miles away.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is recognised for its fun and exciting atmosphere. It’s a classic East End Pub featuring darts and a pool table, perfect for group outings or quiz nights on Wednesdays. The venue also includes a spacious beer garden.
What’s On Offer:
- Events and Entertainment: The pub hosts lively events and live music on weekends, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Regular activities like karaoke and quiz nights add to the appeal, with karaoke on Mondays and quiz nights on Wednesdays.
- Special Offerings: The Abbey Arms stands out for its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with complimentary stew and Guinness. It’s also known for its friendly, efficient, and attentive staff.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?: The Abbey Arms is open every day of the week. From Monday to Saturday, the hours are 11 AM to 11 PM, and on Sunday, it’s open from 12 PM to 10:30 PM.
The Abbey Arms provides a great mix of traditional pub feel with modern entertainment, making it a sought-after venue for a variety of occasions. It remains a favorite for many due to its overall friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
The Red House
Address: 299 Barking Rd, London E13 8EQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Red House is situated in the Plaistow area of London. It is conveniently located near Canning Town and Star Lane stations, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The Red House offers a traditional pub atmosphere. It has a main room that was originally divided into two, along with a small snug room and a third room further back. The decor includes a world map and a unique collage of native American artifacts, adding to its quaint charm. The pub is described as a local drinkers’ pub, popular among the residents in the area.
What’s On Offer
- Drink Promotions: Although it doesn’t offer real ale, the pub does serve a variety of standard draughts. The pub offers a range of drink promotions throughout the week too.
- Live Sports: The Red House is known for broadcasting live sports on television, making it a go-to spot for sports fans.
- Facilities and Services: The pub has a beer garden, which is a nice addition for those who prefer outdoor seating. The pub also has pool tables, adding to its entertainment options. Additionally, it’s equipped with Wi-Fi, enhancing the convenience for its patrons.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every day 11:00-23:00.
The Red House in Plaistow offers a traditional pub experience with a focus on live sports and local clientele. Its facilities and services cater well to a varied audience looking for a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. Its charm and character make it a beloved spot among its regulars.
Victoria Tavern
Address: 28 High St, London E13 0AJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Victoria Tavern is conveniently located a short walk from Plaistow Station.
- What’s the Vibe? The Victoria Tavern is renowned for its lively and friendly atmosphere. It’s a traditional pub that’s popular with West Ham supporters and locals who appreciate its vibrant vibe. The pub has a history dating back to at least 1871 and it was rebuilt in the 1960s. Customers often praise the music and overall welcoming environment.
What’s On Offer
- Varied Drink Selection: This pub is well-known for its extensive selection of beers, wines, and spirits, catering to a wide range of tastes.
- Entertainment Options: The Victoria Tavern offers various entertainment options including DJs, pool tables, and televised football matches, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings and sports fans.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Saturday: 12:00 – 02:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
This information paints a picture of Victoria Tavern as a traditional, vibrant London pub with a rich history and a variety of offerings that make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. The pub’s varied drink selection, coupled with its entertainment options, contributes to its lively atmosphere, ideal for socialising and enjoying a good time.
The Greyhound
Address: 136 W Ham Ln, London E15 4PT
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Greyhound is situated in Stratford, London. It’s conveniently located near Stratford High Street DLR station, making it easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The Greyhound boasts a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. Its historical roots date back to 1841, yet it has evolved to cater to contemporary tastes. This creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to both casual visitors and sports enthusiasts.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub with Modern Facilities: The Greyhound offers a classic pub experience, enhanced with modern conveniences. This includes a well-stocked selection of beers, wines, and spirits, appealing to a variety of tastes.
- Sports Entertainment and Leisure Activities: The pub is equipped with a pool table and TV for sporting events, making it a popular destination for sports fans. It provides a lively and engaging environment, especially during major sports broadcasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Greyhound in Stratford merges historical appeal with modern touches, providing a cosy yet vibrant setting. It caters to a diverse clientele, from those seeking a traditional pub experience to sports lovers. The convenient location and varied offerings make it a notable spot in London’s pub scene.
The Lord Stanley
Address: 15 St Mary’s Rd, London E13 9AE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Lord Stanley is situated in the Newham area of London, close to Plaistow station, making it conveniently accessible for visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub is known for its welcoming and down-to-earth atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals. It features a backstreet setting that adds to its charm. The venue is equipped with amenities like pool tables and a stage for live music, contributing to a lively and enjoyable environment.
What’s On Offer
- Special Menu and Drinks: The Lord Stanley boasts a diverse menu, including popular options like Sunday roasts and a wide range of drinks. The menu caters to various tastes and includes vegetarian-friendly options.
- Entertainment and Facilities: The pub offers a variety of entertainment options, including three pool tables, live music performances, and a dartboard. It is also equipped with a projector for football matches and hosts karaoke over the weekend, making it an ideal venue for leisure and social gatherings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- The kitchen has specific hours for serving food, including a pizza menu that is available for most of the day.
- Opening Hours:
The Lord Stanley in Newham, London, offers a great blend of good food, a comfortable atmosphere, and a variety of entertainment options, making it a popular spot for casual dining and socializing. The venue’s accessibility and friendly staff add to its appeal as a local favorite.
The Oiler Bar
Address: Royal Victoria Docks, London, Royal Victoria Beach E16 1AG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Oiler Bar is a unique venue situated alongside Royal Victoria Beach, next to the Crystal, under the path of the IFS Cloud Cable Car in the Royal Victoria area of East London.
- What’s the Vibe? The Oiler Bar offers a distinctive dockside drinking experience, being an ex-Royal Navy refuelling barge that’s been converted into a bar. It serves as a floating beer garden with spectacular views of the Royal Docks and the nearby city skyline of Canary Wharf. The atmosphere is described as chilled and friendly, with a unique ambiance enhanced by the location’s historic nature and the activities happening on the water at WakeUp Docklands.
What’s On Offer
- Unique Dockside Setting: The bar’s conversion from a historic refuelling barge adds a unique charm. Its position next to Royal Victoria beach provides stunning views, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a drink while observing the bustling activities of the docks.
- Open Mic & Live Jam Events: The Oiler Bar hosts an Open Mic & Live Jam on the first Saturday of each month. These events showcase talent from all around East London, including music, spoken word, and comedy. The venue provides a platform for artists to express themselves and invites all to participate in an improvisational jam session.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Oiler Bar is open Tuesday to Friday from 2pm to 10pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 10pm. It remains closed on Mondays.
With its combination of a unique setting, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse offerings, The Oiler Bar stands out as a must-visit destination in London for both locals and tourists.
Ready to Visit?
Newham, an East London district, offers a rich and diverse nightlife with a variety of bars and pubs, each boasting its own unique character and charm. From the historic allure of The Boleyn Tavern, known for its Victorian architecture and wide selection of drinks, to the cosy and welcoming atmosphere of The Princess Alexandra, Newham caters to all preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional British pub experience or a more modern setting, Newham’s bars provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out with friends.
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Why not experience the vibrant nightlife of Newham for yourself? Head over to one of these fantastic bars, like The Boleyn Tavern or The Princess Alexandra, and soak in the unique atmosphere each has to offer. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and let them join in the fun. And once you’ve visited, we’d love to hear about your experience – share your review and spread the word about Newham’s exciting bar scene!