The Rochester Castle, Stoke Newington

Not for the faint hearted the 'Roch', despite being a Wetherspoon, is about as close to a 'proper' Hackney pub as you'll get in the rarified atmosphere of Stoke Newington these days. Drawn by the cheap (even by Wetherspoon standards) ales and food, the old and weary, the disenfanchised and lost, plus the seriously skint flock to this house any night of the week. In the latter group are plenty of local musicians from punk to jazz, all stretching out meagre gig fees on the specials and guest ales. It's the place for meetings and discussion as there is no music though some of the regulars make up for it in sheer decibels.
A cultural experience and a must-visit for the discerning tourist with a taste for the 'Real London' this bar has been compared to those in Star Wars and Coogans Bluff.
Only the broadest minded of ladies tend to enjoy this place so cross it off your list of Valentine's venues. Mind you, the champagne's as cheap as chips!

10 Feb 2006 09:16

The Green, Clerkenwell

Great beer and good food. City prices but BIG portions of yummy pies and roasts and all sorts of hearty stuff all served up in nicely low key surroundings with friendly staff. Recommended.

17 Nov 2005 12:33