The Golden Fleece, Manor Park, E12

Pub SignMan left this review about The Golden Fleece

Occupying an enviable position at the edge of Wanstead Flats, this sprawling pub offers a variety of atmospheres across several connected areas. The right-hand side has a traditional feel, with tiled flooring, banquette seating, and a low white-beamed ceiling supported by a chunky wooden pillar. The main bar sits centrally and is curved in shape, separated from the left-hand room by structural remnants from earlier partitioning. The bar has festive floral decorations and recessed shelves on the back wall, along with a bright neon "Level Head" sign. Opposite are high tables and benches, while a more secluded room to the left offers standard tables and chairs, floral wallpaper, and further TV screens. A conservatory-style space at the back provides extra seating in a bright, airy setting. Throughout, walls are adorned with a mix of vintage photos, jokey slogans, branded chalkboards and a few fireplaces.
Three cask ales were available—Greene King IPA and Yardbird, and a guest ale of Signature Brew Roadie. The latter was in pretty good shape and the service was prompt, whilst the pub had a laid-back, local's boozer feel despite the many screens showing muted football. 
There seem to be quite a few decent pubs in this part of town, although this one stands slightly out on a limb from those nearer the station, making it feel more essential to the local's who live hereabouts, and it's the locals who give this place its pleasant ambiance which I enjoyed from my short visit here. It's a good example of a simple pub catering for its target market and as a stranger visiting for the first time, it was good to feel welcomed in such an environment and I was glad I made the effort to check the place out.

Date of visit: 8th February 2025

On 2^nd September 2025 - rating: 7
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