Old Duke Of Cambridge, Bow, E3

This little pub is a real gem. It's a well cared for free house, run by a couple who maintain it as a home from home for their customers. Unfortunately the Olympics didn't do them any favours, and a massive new block of flats next door occupied mainly by Muslims has wreaked havoc with their business. In fact, I was the only customer to make an appearance for the 45 mins or so I was in there. Anyway, the pub is mainly a single room affair - carpeted with a handful of normal tables and chairs in front of the bar counter, but with an armchair or two at the back on the right near the dartboard. There are potted plants all along the window ledge giving the place a really homely feel. The only thing that's missing is a real ale. The landlady said that they had tried it in the past, but that they just don't have the customer base to support even one ale. What has happened is that Peter the guv'nor, who happens to like real ale, has had to finish off the barrell before it goes off. I suppose some poor sod has to do it! But the old brass pump remains on the bar counter - hopefully it will see some use in the furure. The best bet when I was in was some keg GKIPA Smooth. Food is sometimes available here. When I was in on Monday lunchtime the landlady rustled up a cheese sarny with a bit of salad and crisps, for £2.50. I don't tend to go much for pubs that don't do real ale, but I felt really comfortable in this one and would probably drop in again if I was in the area.

Randomness Guide to London - Old Duke Of Cambridge entry

Randomness Guide to London - Old Duke Of Cambridge entry