The Birkbeck Tavern, Leyton

Great backstreet boozer, with a lovely beer garden. Seemed to have a decent ale selection and they serve food, which, while I didn't eat, looked good from what I saw others eating.

Like the previous poster, I don't see this making a top-20 list in London, much less the UK, but its a great pub all the same and well worth a visit.

20 Apr 2015 12:38

The Coach and Horses, Leyton

Must have been a sight to behold in its day. You can still see the line in the ground where they opened up the lounge and the salon bar. The massive back room was most likely a billiards hall, now with horrible laminate flooring. I still found some evidence of nice stained glass on the back windows and in the toilets, and also what looked like a blocked-up dumbwaiter. The central bar area survives and is very attractive.

Overall, this pub is well worth a visit if you are in the area. I was in there on a Saturday afternoon (Leyton Orient must have been playing away) and there were about a dozen friendly regulars dotted around, reading newspapers and watching football.

I for one hope this place remains how it is, as I love nothing better than a crossword and a pint in a pub like this on a Saturday afternoon.

20 Apr 2015 12:35

The Boleyn Tavern, Upton Park

Was in here on Friday just gone for the first time. It's a stunning place and well worth a visit. Was quiet for a Friday, which is a shame, as I'd hate to see this place close down, especially when it takes the hit on match-day takings next season when West Ham move to Stratford.

Had a great time, locals were friendly. Check out the ceiling on the billiards room at the back- there is nothing else like it in London.

1 Mar 2015 15:20