Ready to explore the vibrant pub scene around Limehouse DLR? This buzzing area is not just a hub for the Docklands Light Railway; it’s a goldmine for some of the coolest bars and cosiest pubs in London! Whether you’re after quirky craft beers, classic British ales, or a fancy cocktail with a riverside view, Limehouse has got you covered. From hidden gems tucked away in historic buildings to modern spots with a lively vibe, each establishment in this guide promises a unique experience. So, grab your mates and get ready to discover the best watering holes near Limehouse DLR – where good times and great drinks are always just a hop, skip, and a pint away!
The Craft Beer Co.
Address: 576 Commercial Rd, London E14 7JD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The venue is situated in Limehouse, easily accessible near the Limehouse DLR station. This location makes it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Craft Beer Co. Limehouse boasts a rich history, dating back to 1871 when it was originally known as “The Railway Tavern.” After a thorough refurbishment in 2016, it now offers a welcoming and rustic ambiance. The interior features charming Bass mirrors and rustic signage against exposed brick walls, alongside a variety of seating options that cater to different preferences, from traditional tables and chairs to comfortable winged chairs. The establishment is bathed in natural light, streaming through exquisite leaded stained-glass windows, enhancing its inviting atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Craft Beer Selection: With an impressive array of over twenty-five beers, ales, stouts, and ciders, the venue is a paradise for beer enthusiasts. The range changes constantly, ensuring that there’s always something new to try. The knowledgeable staff are available to assist patrons in navigating this extensive selection.
- Unique Spaces and Events: The Craft Beer Co. Limehouse spans two floors, offering a rooftop terrace and outdoor seating. The pub hosts a variety of engaging events throughout the month, including Live Music, Open Mic sessions, Karaoke nights, and Sunday Quiz events.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 3:30 PM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
The Craft Beer Co. in Limehouse is not just a beer bar; it’s a destination that combines historical charm with a modern twist. It’s a place where one can enjoy a vast selection of craft beers in a cosy and rustic setting, participate in enjoyable events, and experience the vibrant culture of Limehouse.
The Old Ship
Address: 17 Barnes St, London E14 7NW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Old Ship, an historic pub, built in 1851, features a beautiful stock brick and green-tiled exterior, characteristic of its Georgian square setting in Limehouse. It’s conveniently close to Limehouse DLR station.
- What’s the Vibe? The Old Ship presents a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting its strong connection to the local LGBTQ community. The interior is a blend of modern and traditional elements, with wooden flooring at the bar, a carpeted seating area, and a mix of conventional furniture. The pub is adorned with rainbow flags and a variety of decor, including helium-filled balloons, making it a vibrant and inclusive space.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional British Fare and Ales: The Old Ship offers a selection of real ales, wines, beers, and traditional British fare.
- LGBTQ Cabaret and Events: A standout feature of The Old Ship is its regular LGBTQ+ cabaret events, which add to the lively and entertaining atmosphere of the pub. They also host Saucy Sophie’s Pub Quiz every Wednesday, adding a fun and interactive element to the midweek.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12pm – 10pm
- Tuesday: 12pm – 11pm
- Wednesday: 12pm – 12am
- Thursday: 12pm – 11pm
- Friday to Sunday: 12pm – 12am
The Old Ship is a historic pub with a modern twist, offering a unique combination of traditional British pub elements and a lively, inclusive atmosphere. It stands as a beacon in the Limehouse area, appealing to a wide range of patrons with its diverse offerings and welcoming vibe.
The Grapes
Address: 76 Narrow St, London E14 8BP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Grapes is situated in the Docklands/Canary Wharf/Isle of Dogs area, close to the Museum of London Docklands. This location places it within a peaceful neighborhood, not far from the hustle and bustle of Canary Wharf.
- What’s the Vibe? The Grapes exudes an ‘olde-worlde’ charm, with its vintage London setting ideal for a relaxing visit. The interior features a classic Victorian design, offering a cosy, fun, and traditional ambiance. Its riverside location provides picturesque views, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the pub.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Cuisine: The Grapes offers a menu that includes international classics like lamb cutlets or grilled salmon with noodles. For those seeking a traditional British experience, there are options like fish and chips, steak, and pies.
- Diverse Drink Selection: The pub also has a wide range of drinks, including beers like Adnams Bitter, Landlord, or London Glory, along with a selection of wines.
- Special Events and Literary Connections: The Grapes is known for its literary connections, notably to Charles Dickens, who was a patron and even referenced the pub in his novel ‘Our Mutual Friend’. The pub is partly owned by Sir Ian McKellen, who sometimes runs the pub quiz, adding to its unique charm. Regular events like the popular Monday evening pub quiz are hosted, providing a blend of entertainment and cultural enrichment.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Grapes is open Monday to Sunday, with hours from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM (10:30 PM on Sunday).
The Grapes in Limehouse is a historical pub offering a combination of traditional British cuisine, a diverse drink selection, and a rich cultural ambiance, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.
The Star of the East
Address: 805A Commercial Rd, London E14 7HG
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Star of the East is located in the Poplar area, close to Docklands, and just minutes away from Canary Wharf. The pub is easily accessible and sits in a bustling, historic part of London.
- What’s the Vibe? This 19th-century pub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a blend of traditional and modern elements. It features a cosy interior, a secret garden, and function rooms that retain their original charm. The venue is known for its friendly service and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Classic Pub Fare and Pizzas: The Star of the East is renowned for its classic pub favorites, including a variety of pizzas made with fresh ingredients. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Events and Activities: The pub hosts a range of events and activities. Regular offerings include a popular Sunday Roast, served every Sunday from midday until 6 pm, a Pub Quiz on Tuesday nights, and a Bottomless Brunch available on Saturdays and Bank Holidays. These events add to the lively and engaging atmosphere of the pub.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours are generally from midday to 11 pm on weekdays, with extended hours until 11:30 pm on Fridays. On Saturdays, the pub opens at 10:30 am and closes at 11 pm, and on Sundays, it’s open from midday to 10:30 pm.
The Star of the East is highly regarded for its excellent hospitality and amazing food, making it a great choice for various occasions, from casual after-work gatherings to private events like birthday parties. Customers have praised the pub for its welcoming staff, quality of food, and overall ambiance, contributing to its high ratings and positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor.
The Crown
Address: 667 Commercial Rd, London E14 7LW
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crown is situated near the Museum of London Docklands on the bustling Commercial Road, offering an authentic East London pub experience.
- What’s the Vibe? The Crown is known for its old-fashioned, no-frills atmosphere. It is characterised as a traditional local pub with a simple and somewhat dated décor, offering a relaxed and friendly environment. The pub is frequented by locals and is appreciated for its welcoming ambiance, especially for newcomers.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Experience: The Crown offers a classic London pub experience, with a focus on simple pleasures. The pub does not serve food, but visitors can enjoy traditional snacks like cheese and biscuits, especially during Sunday lunchtimes.
- Drinks: The drink selection is straightforward, with options like Fosters and other beers.
- Entertainment: The Crown also features live sports and has a dartboard, making it a great spot for leisure and entertainment.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The opening hours for The Crown are from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, and from 12:00 PM to 09:00 PM on Sunday.
The Crown is a classic example of a traditional London pub. It’s a great place for those looking to experience the authentic local pub culture of London, particularly in the bustling area of East London. The simplicity of the venue, coupled with its friendly atmosphere, makes it a cherished spot among both locals and visitors.
Ready to Visit?
Limehouse, located on the Docklands Light Railway, is renowned for its dynamic pub and bar scene, offering a diverse range of drinking experiences. Notable mentions include The Craft Beer Co., a paradise for craft beer lovers with its extensive global selection and cosy ambience, and The Old Ship, a historic riverside pub blending traditional charm with modern flair, serving British ales and hosting lively events. Each establishment in Limehouse promises a unique and memorable experience, making it a must-visit area for pub enthusiasts.
Share the Love
Why not venture out to one of these fantastic bars in Limehouse and immerse yourself in the local pub culture? Share this guide with your friends, and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit to let others know about your experience. Whether it’s the craft beers at The Craft Beer Co. or the riverside charm of The Old Ship, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Cheers to good times and great drinks in Limehouse!