Oh, Bethnal Green, you cheeky little slice of East London, where the vibes are as eclectic as the crowd it draws! If you’re tumbling out of the Bethnal Green Tube station with a thirst only the finest local watering holes can quench, you’re in luck. This area is a treasure trove of bars and pubs that blend the traditional with the oh-so-trendy. From cosy, candle-lit nooks serving craft beers to buzzing, neon-lit spaces where cocktails are art forms, Bethnal Green offers a night out that’s as diverse as its visitors. So, whether you’re after a laid-back evening sipping pints or a night of innovative mixology, let’s embark on a merry jaunt through the best bars and pubs this vibrant corner of London has to offer. Cheers to that!
Salmon & Ball
Address: 502 Bethnal Green Rd, Bethnal Green, London, E2 0EA, England
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Salmon & Ball is located at the heart of Bethnal Green, London, right next to Bethnal Green tube station. This historic pub has been a staple of the area, offering a glimpse into London’s rich past.
- What’s the Vibe? With its traditional charm, the Salmon & Ball features wooden floors, exposed brick walls, and cosy seating areas, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decor mixes old and new, showcasing vintage photographs and antiques, complemented by modern amenities like flat-screen TVs for live sports events.
What’s On Offer
- Food & Drink: The pub boasts a wide selection of drinks, including beers, ales, ciders, wines, and spirits, with knowledgeable staff to recommend the perfect drink. Traditional British pub fare like fish and chips, pie and mash, and bangers and mash are served, known for their generous portions and delicious taste.
- Historical Significance: Beyond its regular offerings, the Salmon & Ball is steeped in history, from hosting public hangings in the 18th century to meetings of the British Union of Fascists in the 1930s. It has also been a venue for the Bethnal Green Philanthropic Pensioners society and has gone through various renovations and changes in style throughout the years.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The pub is open daily, with hours typically extending from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
The Sun Tavern
Address: 441 Bethnal Green Road, London, E2 0AN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Sun Tavern is situated in the vibrant area of Bethnal Green, London. This venue has a rich history, originally founded in 1851 and reborn through extensive renovation and restoration in 2014. Its location in East London places it in the heart of one of the city’s most dynamic and culturally rich areas, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? The atmosphere of The Sun Tavern is a blend of traditional charm with a modern twist, offering a cosy yet lively environment. It’s described as a neighborhood bar that honors its roots with a focus on classically inspired cocktails, a vast selection of Irish Whiskey, and the world’s largest collection of Poitín. The interior features a mix of bare bricks and vintage decor, complemented by comfortable seating and ambient lighting, creating a welcoming space for patrons.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Selection of Spirits: One of the key offerings of The Sun Tavern is its extensive selection of spirits, boasting London’s largest collection of Irish Whiskey and the world’s most expansive collection of Poitín. This selection offers a unique tasting experience for enthusiasts of these spirits, with options ranging from well-known brands to rare and vintage bottles.
- Live Music & DJ Sets: The venue is known for its vibrant music scene, hosting live music events and DJ sets that cater to a wide range of musical tastes. From Non-Specific Rock ‘n’ Roll to intimate Poitín masterclasses, The Sun Tavern offers a diverse lineup of entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours of The Sun Tavern are Sunday to Wednesday from 12 pm until midnight, and Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm until 2 am.
Bethnal Green Tavern
Address: 456 Bethnal Green Rd, London, E2 0EA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Bethnal Green Tavern is prominently located on Bethnal Green Road, a bustling street in the heart of London’s vibrant East End. The venue is conveniently a short walk from Bethnal Green tube station, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub exudes a traditional yet contemporary atmosphere, offering a blend of cosy, dimly lit interiors with candles on the tables and a lively beer garden at the rear. The decor features traditional elements with copper poser tables and low seating. It caters to a mix of staunch locals and newer residents, including young professionals and students, contributing to an upbeat and welcoming environment.
What’s On Offer
- Ever-Changing Beer Menu & British Food: The tavern prides itself on serving an ever-changing array of beers from around the world, alongside a seasonal British food menu inspired by nostalgic dishes. The beer selection is impressive, with over twenty options of beers, ales, and ciders. The food offerings are hearty and delicious, including British classics and some of the best Sunday roasts around.
- Outdoor Seating: Bethnal Green Tavern boasts an awesome garden out back, providing a great space for outdoor dining and socialising. The garden is equipped with plenty of benches and covered spaces, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed drink or meal.
- Events: The pub regularly hosts events, making it a trendy and hip place for various occasions, from casual meet-ups to date nights.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The tavern is open seven days a week, with opening hours from midday until midnight from Monday to Wednesday, extending to 1 am on Thursday to Saturday, and closing at 11 pm on Sunday. Kitchen hours are from midday until 10 pm, Monday through Saturday, and until 8 pm on Sunday.
The Camel
Address: 277 Globe Rd, Bethnal Green, London, E2 0JE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Camel is nestled in the heart of Bethnal Green, East London, presenting itself as a quaint and community-focused pub with a vintage charm. It’s positioned on a leafy street, adding a serene backdrop to its vibrant ambiance, making it a hidden gem behind the V&A’s Museum of Childhood.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, combining traditional pub elements with modish retro interior touches. It’s known for its lovely plain brown exterior tiles, an etched Camel mirror, and archive shots that nod to its rich history. Inside, dark wallpaper adorned with red roses and bronze spherical lampshades contribute to its unique, retro charm. The Camel caters to a chilled crowd, including families and local arty types, creating a warm and inviting space for all visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Gourmet Pies & Mash: The Camel takes pride in serving hearty gourmet pies, which have become its signature offering. These delectable pies, ranging from chicken, tarragon and bacon to asparagus and wild mushroom, are served alongside traditional accompaniments like mash, minted mushy peas, and red wine gravy.
- Beer and Beverages: Beer enthusiasts will appreciate The Camel’s selection of beverages, featuring highlights like Sambrook’s Wandle or Junction, Freedom Four, and pristine Brewers Gold. The pub doesn’t lean into gastro-posturing, DJs, or poncey wine lists, instead focusing on a straightforward, quality drink offering that perfectly complements its food menu.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Camel welcomes guests from Monday to Wednesday, 4-11pm, and Thursday to Sunday, noon-11pm.
For those seeking a slice of traditional London pub culture with a modern twist, The Camel offers a memorable experience that combines quality food, a great selection of drinks, and a uniquely warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the city, this pub is worth a visit for its standout pies, welcoming vibe, and commitment to being a cosy community hub in East London.
The Dundee Arms
Address: 339 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, London, E2 9LH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Dundee Arms is located in the vibrant area of Bethnal Green, opposite York Hall, and is easily accessible from Bethnal Green tube station. This venue stands out with its historical significance and has undergone transformations that have turned it into a modern pub while retaining a touch of its Victorian essence.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a shabby chic ambiance, popular among both locals and visitors. It’s described as trendy, featuring a blend of painted and unpainted wood paneling, bare brick walls, and comfortable seating areas. The interior showcases a distressed look with some plush fixed bench seating, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Ales: The Dundee Arms prides itself on offering a selection of craft beers and ales, frequently featuring products from Truman’s, ELB, and Siren Craft. It’s a haven for beer enthusiasts looking for quality drinks in a cosy environment.
- Unique Food Offerings: While not a full-service restaurant, The Dundee Arms offers unique toasties with options like cheese and spring onion, with premium additions such as ham, kimchi, or truffle. This approach to pub snacks is very much in keeping with the Bethnal Green vibe – casual yet inventive.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Opening times are Monday from 16:00-23:00, Tuesday and Wednesday from 12:00-24:00, Thursday to Saturday from 12:00-01:00 the next day, and Sunday from 12:00-22:30.
The Dundee Arms offers a blend of traditional pub charm with a modern twist, making it a notable destination in Bethnal Green. Whether you’re in for the craft beers, the unique toasties, or just to soak up the atmosphere, it’s a venue that promises a memorable experience.
Ready to Visit?
Bethnal Green, a vibrant corner of East London, is known for its eclectic mix of bars and pubs, seamlessly blending the traditional with the contemporary. Among the gems is the historic Salmon & Ball, offering a cosy atmosphere with a selection of traditional British fare and drinks right next to Bethnal Green Tube station. Then there’s The Sun Tavern, a neighborhood bar with a modern twist, boasting London’s largest collection of Irish Whiskey and a rich selection of Poitín. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening or an innovative cocktail night, Bethnal Green has something to offer every visitor.
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Why not dive into the unique atmosphere of Bethnal Green’s best bars on your next outing? With options ranging from the historic charm of the Salmon & Ball to the spirited vibe of The Sun Tavern, there’s a spot for every taste. Share this article with friends, and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit to spread the word about these fabulous spots. Whether it’s for the drinks, the history, or the ambiance, your experience is sure to be memorable.