Randomness Guide to London - Differences between Version 19 and Version 18 of Birkbeck Tavern, E11 4HL

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According to signs seen in August 2014, the pub is dog friendly <small>[https://www.flickr.com/photos/kake_pugh/14630537717/ photo]</small>, and children are welcome until 7pm <small>[https://www.flickr.com/photos/kake_pugh/14836900123/ photo]</small>.

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category='Child Friendly,Darts,Dog Friendly,Good Beer Guide 2007,Good Beer Guide 2011,Good Beer Guide 2012,Good Beer Guide 2013,Pool Table,Pubs,Real Ale'
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Pub in Leyton, next to St Patrick's Cemetery and fairly near Leyton Station.

It has two separate bars, each with their own entrance. The public bar has a pool table, and the lounge bar has a dartboard (with Courage Best branding). There's also a pleasant back garden and upstairs function room which is often used by the Masons.

Decor in the lounge bar is traditional, with a patterned carpet, high ceiling, tankards hanging from the ceiling beams, and horse brasses mounted in a line up the staircase. The fireplace boasts even more horse brasses, as well as some nice old flowery tiles and a cat sculpture lying asleep in front. Seating is upholstered banquettes, low bar stools, and upright chairs.

Real ale is served, including an own-branded "Rita's Special". According to a sign seen in August 2014, bar snacks are available 1pm-4pm, with sandwiches and wraps made to order.

On Kake and bob's visit on a Wednesday late evening in May 2011, the interior was notably brightly lit. Service was friendly and informative. Music was playing occasionally — perhaps a jukebox?

Kake visited again on a Friday afternoon in August 2011. There was again occasional music. Three of the seven handpumps were on, including "Rita's Special". A half of lime and soda was 40p. In contrast to my previous visit, service was perfunctory, with no acknowledgement when I walked up to the bar and no eye contact throughout our interaction. There were quite a few people in just before 3pm, but plenty of free seats.

Flash's verdict: Generally accepted by the locals to be the best pub in Leyton and this is evidenced by CAMRA awards.

Accessibility: Fairly large steps at both entrances. No further steps to the ladies' (accessed via the lounge bar), but the cubicles are very small. Gents' not checked.

See also:

Last visited by Kake, August 2014. Opening hours taken from the 2007 Good Beer Guide.

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