Just a hop from Fairlop Tube in leafy East London, you’ll find a solid mix of proper pubs and laid‑back bars. Whether you’re after a cosy corner for a casual pint or a scenic spot by the lake, the Fairlop area punches well above its Tube‑zone weight.
The Old Maypole
Address: 105–107 Fencepiece Road, Ilford, IG6 2NG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Tucked in the Barkingside/Fairlop area of Ilford, this large corner pub sits just off the A12 in Greater London. It’s part of the Sizzling Pubs family, making it familiar to local pub-goers.
- What’s the Vibe? A traditional community‑style pub with a relaxed yet vibrant ambiance. With a dedicated dining area, a games section (pool table etc.), and a pleasant beer garden, it caters well to families, locals and sports fans alike.
What’s On Offer
- Hearty Pub Classics & Global Flavours: Expect nostalgic staples like fish and chips, burgers, steak and even mac ’n’ cheese, plus a range of vegetarian options. Starters include crispy prawns and salt & pepper mushrooms.
- Cocktail offers, Garden & Quiz Nights: Hosts regular quiz nights and themed evenings, plus offers like “2 cocktails from £8.50,” and with a spacious garden, it’s ideal for relaxed outdoor drinks.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Tuesday: 11:00–22:30
- Wednesday: 11:00–23:00
- Thursday–Saturday: 11:00–midnight
- Sunday: 11:00–22:30
The Chequers
Address: 2 High Street, Barkingside, IG6 2DD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled at the southern end of Barkingside High Street, this pub sits at a notable junction of the local community – just north‑east of Ilford town centre, within easy reach of Barkingside Underground station on the Central Line.
- What’s the Vibe? A traditional‑meets‑modern neighbourhood pub: recently refurbished, it prides itself on warm, family‑friendly hospitality with a lively atmosphere – especially at weekends. Think real ales, casual dining areas, and a buzz of friendly chatter.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music: Hosts free live gigs every Friday (often local bands and acoustic acts), creating a vibrant, community‑centre feel.
- Food & Drink: Open daily serving a full menu of British classics, available for breakfast (weekend mornings), lunch, and dinner (Sunday to Saturday); plus regular coffee and cake in the mornings.
- Social Facilities: With a capacity of around 150, multiple TVs showing live sports, pool table, free Wi‑Fi, and outdoor seating (including a beer garden that welcomes dogs), it caters to a wide range of visitors from families to sports fans.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Open from midday until late—typically 12:00–23:00 midweek and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays; roughly 12:00–22:00 on Sundays
- Kitchen Hours: Breakfast at weekends, lunch daily, dinner every day except Sunday.
The New Fairlop Oak
Address: Fencepiece Road, Fairlop, IG6 2JP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Fencepiece Road in the Fairlop area of Ilford, this Wetherspoon pub occupies a converted inter‑war post office building, just a short stroll from Fairlop station and local bus routes.
- What’s the Vibe? A traditional, friendly pub with a laid‑back Wetherspoon feel. Expect framed local photos, a family area, a patio for outdoor seating and a solid real‑ale focus.
What’s On Offer
- Real‑Ale Selection: Six hand‑pulled guest ales rotating regularly, plus staples like Greene King Abbot, Ruddles Best Bitter and Sharp’s Doom Bar. It’s also in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2025.
- All‑Day Food: Standard Wetherspoon menu served throughout the day, featuring pub classics and deals – fish & chips Friday is a popular draw.
- Historical Tidbit: Named after the famous Fairlop Oak, once a huge tree in nearby Hainault Forest, historically central to the Fairlop Fair. The original fell in 1820 and was replanted in 1909; the pub commemorates this local heritage.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Open daily from 08:00. Monday–Thursday until around 23:00; Friday and Saturday often to midnight; Sunday closing around 23:00.
Ready to Visit?
Tucked around Fairlop Tube, this corner of East London offers more than just leafy walks and suburban charm – it’s home to a great little cluster of pubs worth exploring. From the spacious and family-friendly Old Maypole, with its pub classics and big garden, to the New Fairlop Oak, a CAMRA-approved Wetherspoon boasting rotating ales and local heritage, there’s something for everyone. Add to that the live music and community vibe at The Chequers, and you’ve got the makings of a proper pub-hopping afternoon in IG6.
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