Looking for a great pint or cocktail near Upton Park Tube? You’re in luck! This lively East London area is home to a variety of local gems, from cosy traditional pubs to trendy bars. Whether you’re after a post-match pint or a chilled evening with mates, Upton Park’s got a spot for every vibe. So, let’s explore the best watering holes just a stone’s throw from the station!
The Boleyn Tavern
Address: 1 Barking Road, East Ham, London, E6 1PW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Boleyn Tavern is situated at the corner of Green Street and Barking Road in East Ham, East London. It’s a prominent historical pub, located near the former West Ham United football ground, making it a local landmark with a rich connection to the area’s football culture.
- What’s the Vibe? The Boleyn Tavern boasts a majestic Victorian design, blending its historic charm with modern amenities. Recently restored, it maintains its classic grandeur with dark wood, stained glass skylights, and traditional Victorian features like wooden partitions. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and steeped in East London history, offering a friendly space for both locals and visitors alike.
What’s On Offer
- Victorian Heritage & Stunning Interior: The pub has undergone a meticulous £1.5 million restoration, preserving its original Victorian aesthetic. It features intricate wood and glass partitions, a grand skylight, and stunning period details throughout. This attention to detail makes the Boleyn Tavern a standout example of late Victorian pub architecture.
- Food & Drink: The Boleyn Tavern offers a well-curated selection of cask ales, including local and craft brews, as well as classic British pub fare. The former billiard room has been transformed into a dining space, offering traditional British dishes served under a magnificent stained glass canopy, making it a key dining destination in the area.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Lamb
Address: 85 Pelly Road, London, E13 0NL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Lamb is located in the heart of Plaistow, East London, on Pelly Road. It’s a short walk from local attractions and accessible by nearby West Ham and Plaistow stations.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub boasts a warm and vibrant atmosphere with a blend of traditional and modern décor. Established in 1869, it retains its Victorian charm while offering a welcoming space for both locals and newcomers. The Lamb is well-known for its friendly environment and diverse crowd, often serving as a hub for community events and gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music & Entertainment: One of the standout features of The Lamb is its regular live music events, offering performances from local and international talent. There are also themed evenings such as bingo nights, sports screenings, and domino games, which attract a lively and sociable crowd.
- Traditional Pub Grub: The Lamb offers a classic pub menu with hearty dishes. You can expect favourites like burgers, steaks, and vegan options, made with locally sourced ingredients. Its Jamaican-inspired dishes also provide a unique twist, making the food a popular attraction in its own right.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Lamb is open from Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 18:30 to midnight. It remains closed on Mondays.
The Black Lion
Address: 59-61 High St, Plaistow, E13 0AD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Black Lion is situated on the High Street in Plaistow, just a short walk from Plaistow Underground Station.
- What’s the Vibe? As one of the oldest pubs in the area, The Black Lion exudes historic charm. With its traditional wood panelling, beams, and heritage features, the pub has a welcoming, old-world feel. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, popular among both locals and football fans looking to catch a match in a cosy setting.
What’s On Offer
- CAMRA-Approved Ales & Whiskies: The Black Lion is listed in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide and offers a fine selection of real ales, premium beers, wines, and specialist whiskies. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur of cask ales, the pub’s range is highly regarded for its quality and variety.
- Live Sports: Known as a great spot for sports enthusiasts, The Black Lion regularly screens live sporting events, particularly football. It’s an ideal venue to enjoy a match with friends over a pint.
- Function Room: The pub also has a function room that can be hired for private events such as birthdays, business functions, and music events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open from Monday to Saturday, 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Food is served Monday to Friday, with two meal slots from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Victoria Tavern
Address: 28 High Street, Plaistow, E13 0AJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Victoria Tavern is located on High Street in the Plaistow area of East London, a short distance from key transport links like Plaistow and Upton Park stations. It’s positioned in a bustling yet community-oriented part of Newham, making it a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is well-known for its friendly, laid-back atmosphere. It offers a cosy, traditional pub setting, popular with both locals and visitors, especially during West Ham football games. The décor is simple, and it’s appreciated for its unpretentious and welcoming vibe.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sports: One of Victoria Tavern’s standout features is its focus on live sports, particularly football. As it is close to West Ham’s home ground, the pub tends to draw in football fans, creating a lively atmosphere on match days. You can also expect to catch other sports, as the pub has screens dedicated to various events.
- Outdoor BBQ & Pub Food: The pub is also celebrated for its BBQ offerings, which are a hit during the warmer months. Run by friendly staff, the outdoor food is a great addition to the usual pub fare, making Victoria Tavern a solid choice for anyone craving freshly grilled meals in a relaxed environment.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 – 22:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00
The Overdraft Tavern
Address: 202 High Street North, East Ham, E6 2JA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Overdraft Tavern is located on High Street North in East Ham, a bustling part of east London. It’s conveniently positioned just a short walk from the East Ham Underground station, making it easily accessible by public transport.
- What’s the Vibe? This local pub offers a casual and low-key atmosphere. While it may not be the trendiest spot, it has its charm with a traditional pub layout. The decor is simple, and the venue includes basic seating and a pool table for some casual entertainment. It’s a popular spot with regulars, giving it a friendly, community feel.
What’s On Offer
- Sports and Entertainment: One of the highlights of The Overdraft Tavern is its sports coverage. The venue features large screens showing live football and other popular sports, which draws in locals who are looking for a relaxed spot to catch a match.
- Drinks Selection: The pub offers a standard selection of beers and ciders, but with a unique twist – they serve Kingfisher beer, a rare find outside of Indian restaurants. The drinks are reasonably priced, making it a good option for those seeking an affordable pint in London.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Overdraft Tavern is open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays, with extended hours until 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, the pub closes slightly earlier at 10:30 PM.
Ready to Visit?
Upton Park and its surrounding areas in East London offer a great mix of traditional pubs and lively bars, perfect for a relaxed evening out or a post-football pint. The Boleyn Tavern, with its beautifully restored Victorian architecture and hearty British fare, is a standout choice for both history enthusiasts and pub lovers. Alternatively, The Lamb in Plaistow combines live music and community events with a warm, traditional vibe, making it a popular spot for locals and newcomers alike.
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