The Bell, Walthamstow, E17

A large lump of a pub and a pretty imposing sight. Unfortunately now a Stonegate Craft Union pub and a recent refub has stripped any charm this place obviously once had. Quiet when I got there at about 11.30 but very soon it started to fill with a few adults accompanied by hordes of 7-8 year old kids who were not at all quiet and were not causing any dismay amongst the barstaff. The beer was poor ELB Cowcatcher and Jamboree The later NBSS 1 bareley drinkable and I was on the verge of returning it to the bar but the screaming rabble made me decide otherwise so I left the remainder and left, probably never to return.

This is a magnificent Victorian pub dominating what predictably is known as Bell Corner. The Victorian pub builders certainly knew how to make their pubs stand out from the surrounding businesses. Inside it's been pretty thoroughly gutted of course, with perhaps just a bit of panelling remaining from what must surely have been a magnificent Victorian interior. But, from a modern perspective, it's actually quite comfortable inside, with mainly normal tables and chairs, some that would accommodate larger parties, with much being recycled dining room furniture, and with its fair share of armchairs and sofas. The emphasis seems to be on food, with several family groups enjoyng a meal when we visited on Wednesday afternoon. As an example, the Bell Burger, with Tudges (?) bacon, caramelised onions and fries is 10 (or £10 to you and I). The ale selection was reasonable, with Doom Bar, Timothy Taylor Landlord, Ringwood Razorback, Great Newsome Outfoxed, and Elland Brewery 'Ell and Back all on. There was also a draft cider on, and a couple more pumps were unclipped. Dimpled mugs seem to be the default here, but being the awkward sods my chums and I are, we asked for, and were given, straight glasses. This is a pub definitely worth visiting; I would certainly make a return visit if in the area again.