If you’re looking for a great night out near Leytonstone Tube, you’re in for a treat! This lively East London area is home to some fantastic bars and pubs, each offering something unique. Whether you’re after a cosy pint in a traditional pub or a cocktail in a trendy bar, Leytonstone has you covered. So grab a mate, hop off the tube, and explore the local gems that make this neighbourhood a favourite for a laid-back drink or two.
The Birds
Address: 692 High Road, Leytonstone, London, E11 3AA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Birds is situated on the High Road in Leytonstone, just a two-minute walk from Leytonstone Underground Station. It’s easily accessible by public transport, with buses like the 257 stopping right outside the venue. Its convenient location makes it a popular stop for both locals and visitors exploring the area.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub takes inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock, who was born in the area. The Birds offers a quirky and eclectic atmosphere, blending modern décor with nods to Hitchcock’s famous films. The venue has a lively, welcoming feel, with regular events and a strong community spirit. You’ll often find themed events and a playful, upbeat vibe, making it great for social gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Vegan & Plant-Based Menu: One of the standout features at The Birds is its vegan and plant-based menu. The pub is known for its dedication to sustainable dining, offering a wide selection of dishes, from small bites to hearty meals like their famous vegan Sunday roast. The menu is carefully crafted to appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike, focusing on fresh, flavourful options.
- Bottomless Brunch & Drag Bingo: The Birds regularly hosts exciting events like their famous bottomless brunch, complete with mimosas and Bloody Marys, and drag bingo sessions that are filled with cheeky humour and lively entertainment. These events add a unique twist to the traditional pub experience and are a big hit with guests looking for something fun and different on the weekends.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- The Birds is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours as follows:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12 pm – 11 pm
- Friday to Saturday: 12 pm – 1 am
- Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm
- The kitchen operates within similar hours, but closes slightly earlier, typically between 9 pm and 8 pm depending on the day
The Red Lion
Address: 640 High Rd Leytonstone, Bushwood, E11 3AA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Red Lion is situated in Leytonstone, North East London, along the bustling High Road. It’s only 20 minutes from the city centre, making it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors alike.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a blend of classic charm and modern touches. The interior is eclectic, featuring vintage elements with a cosy, laid-back vibe. There’s a secret beer garden for those sunny afternoons and a beautiful ballroom for larger gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Sunday Roasts: Every Sunday, The Red Lion serves a hearty selection of Sunday roasts. Options range from 28-day-aged sirloin of beef to free-range chicken, and even a beetroot, nut, and butternut squash Wellington for vegetarians and vegans. There’s also a Devonshire lamb shoulder sharer and a slow-cooked shin of beef, perfect for groups.
- Live DJs: Every weekend, the pub hosts live DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. This lively entertainment adds to the pub’s vibrant evening scene, making it a great spot for a night out.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00 – 01:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
The North Star
Address: 24 Browning Road, Bushwood, E11 3AR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The North Star is located in the quiet residential area of Bushwood, Leytonstone, just a short distance from Leytonstone High Road and close to the sprawling Wanstead Flats. It sits in a charming cul-de-sac, giving it a tucked-away feel that contrasts with the nearby busy streets.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional Victorian pub is a local favourite, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its décor harks back to the mid-20th century, featuring vintage touches like etched glass windows, wood panelling, and a retro saloon-style bar. With a mix of regulars and new visitors, the North Star exudes a cosy, laid-back ambiance perfect for a relaxed pint or catching up with friends.
What’s On Offer
- Cask Ales & Craft Beers: The pub takes pride in its extensive selection of drinks. There are five hand-pulled cask ales, including well-regarded options such as Oakham JHB, Harvey’s Sussex Best, and seasonal guest beers. Additionally, there’s an impressive range of craft beers on keg, with offerings like Madri, Staropramen, and Guinness, ensuring something for every beer lover.
- Pizza 7 Thai Menu: The North Star is also known for its food offerings, with a rotating menu of wood-fired pizzas and a popular Thai kitchen. The pub often serves both cuisines, providing a delightful choice for a casual meal. Be sure to check the schedule, as the Thai kitchen occasionally closes for short breaks.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Food is served daily, but hours vary, so it’s best to check before visiting, especially for the Thai menu.
Filly Brook
Address: 392 Grove Green Rd, Leytonstone, E11 4AP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Filly Brook is nestled in the heart of Leytonstone, East London, on Grove Green Road. It’s a short walk from Leytonstone Underground Station, making it easily accessible. The venue is set in a vibrant area filled with local culture.
- What’s the Vibe? Filly Brook has a laid-back, casual vibe with a touch of sophistication. Known for its craft beer selection and organic wines, the atmosphere is relaxed, with an outdoor courtyard space that provides a mix of open seating and covered areas for year-round enjoyment. The place also attracts music lovers due to its vinyl collection and live DJ events, creating a lively and eclectic environment.
What’s On Offer
- Sho Foo Doh Residency: One of Filly Brook’s standout features is the Japanese kitchen residency, Sho Foo Doh. The chef brings a unique take on casual Japanese izakaya food, with dishes like okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancakes), fried chicken, and vegan gyoza. The food is a fusion of traditional Japanese flavours with contemporary twists, making it a hit among locals.
- Live Music & DJ Events: Filly Brook is well-known for its regular live music and DJ events, often featuring a mix of disco, house, soul, and funk. With free entry and a vinyl-heavy music selection, it’s a perfect spot for those who enjoy both food and music. They also offer vinyl records for sale, making it a go-to destination for music enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Filly Brook is open Wednesday to Sunday. It typically opens from 5 pm for drinks and dinner reservations, while the music starts around 8 pm. No reservations are needed after 9 pm, making it a flexible spot to drop in for late-night drinks.
Heathcote & Star
Address: 344 Grove Green Road, London, E11 4EA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Heathcote & Star is located in the heart of Leytonstone, East London. It’s an easy spot to find, nestled along Grove Green Road, providing a welcoming escape from the urban rush.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub has a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere, with its expansive space offering a mix of old-school pub charm and modern East London cool. With a spacious interior and a massive beer garden, Heathcote & Star is known for its inclusive and relaxed vibe, perfect for both casual meetups and more lively nights out.
What’s On Offer
- Krapow! Thai Kitchen: A standout feature of the Heathcote & Star is its kitchen residency by Krapow!, serving up Thai street food classics like Gai Yang and Krapow Moo. The BBQ offerings in the garden are particularly popular, available on weekends, ensuring delicious grilled meals to pair with a drink.
- Ping Pong, Quizzes & Live Sports: For those seeking a bit of fun, Heathcote & Star boasts a games room featuring ping pong tables. It’s a lively spot for casual games with friends or joining their frequent tournaments. With additional activities and events like quizzes and live sports screenings, there’s always something happening here.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Heathcote & Star is open Monday to Wednesday from 4pm to 11pm, Thursday from 12pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 1am, and Sunday from 12pm to 11pm. The kitchen serves food daily, with slightly earlier closing times than the bar.
Ready to Visit?
Leytonstone, a vibrant area in East London, is home to an array of fantastic pubs and bars, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively evening or a laid-back pint, you’ll find something that suits your taste. The Birds, a Hitchcock-inspired pub, offers a quirky atmosphere and a renowned vegan menu, while The Red Lion, with its cosy vintage charm, is known for its Sunday roasts and live DJ sets.
Share the Love
Why not give The Birds or The Red Lion a try? Invite your friends, enjoy a night out, and don’t forget to share your experience and reviews after your visit!