True East Enders know that there’s nothing quite like a Sunday afternoon down the pub. But what if you want to take your dog too? Never fear– we’ve found the top dog-friendly pubs in East London. Whether you’re looking for traditional, hipster or gastro, there’s something for every thirsty owner and their dog in this round-up. And if you’d like to check out the other pubs that welcome dogs around London have a look at our article on London’s 50 Most Dog-Friendly Pubs.
1. The Birdcage
Address & Map: 80 Columbia Rd, E2 7QB
The Birdcage is a genuine jewel in the crown of the East London scene, so much so that you can spot it by its emerald green exterior. Once home to Olive, the social-media-famous pub dog, The Birdcage is renowned for having dog-loving staff who provide water bowls on tap. Dogs are welcome inside the restaurant area and also to relax with you on the outside benches, although there isn’t a huge garden area. After a pork scratching or two, head out and experience the sights and scents of East London’s famously lauded Columbia Road flower market which makes for a great dog walk.
2. The People’s Park Tavern (formerly The Britannia)
Address & Map: 360 Victoria Park Rd, E9 7BT
The People’s Park Tavern welcomes dogs of all shapes and sizes both inside the bar and outside in the large hacienda garden. They even host “Pub Pup of the Week” to find the cutest dog in East London to share on Instagram. Set beside Victoria Park in the heart of East London, it’s a great place to mingle with dogs, owners, and children after a long romp in the park. Dog water bowls appear as if by magic by the dog-friendly Tavern staff. Although their eclectic taste in DJs does mean that things can get a little loud on Friday and Saturday nights, so best to visit with your dog during the day.
3. The Grapes
Address & Map: 76 Narrow Street, E14 8BP
Overlooking the River Thames, not far from Canary Wharf you’ll find The Grapes. One of the oldest pubs in London (Charles Dickens was actually a patron), it’s dog-friendly to boot. The bar menu features pub classics like sausage and mash, sticky BBQ ribs, and chunky chips sides. There’s a prime first-floor sitting spot in the bar for dogs (the posh bit upstairs is for humans only) and fresh water waiting by the door. Plus a fire to curl up next to while humans enjoy a game of Monopoly and a chat with the regulars. If you like tradition, good food and plenty of cosy nooks to sit in, then this is definitely the East London boozer for you.
4. The Red Lion
Address & Map: 640 High Road Leytonstone, E11 3AA
A short walk from Leytonstone station is The Red Lion. A traditional East London pub laced with filling fare, thirst-quenching beer and cider, and of course, doggy pub visitors. On arrival expect a warm welcome for your dog and a water bowl to appear without you having to ask. A jar of doggy biscuits is on offer to keep them busy while you chat with the locals. Drool over their Sunday feasts where roast meats and Bloody Marys are on offer. Maybe little Pickles will get a few scraps under the table if she’s lucky. Best of all, there’s a huge enclosed beer garden where excitable doggies can burn off some energy and have a good run around with their furry friends. There are also ample covered areas to shade more sensitive dogs from the sun. Perfect for a post walk pint, a chat, and all of the tradition you’d want from a real London local.
5. The Kenton
Address & Map: 38 Kenton Road, E9 7AB
The Kenton is a true delight for dogs, welcoming its furry visitors with a free biscuit and plenty of areas to snuggle up in. Pub dog Jarvis welcomes everyone, and many of his new friends make an appearance on the pub’s Instagram page. Dogs can sit in the bar with owners as long as they’re kept on the lead, or they can enjoy the cute pub garden where there’s plenty of shade. While your little mate makes friends with the other hounds, try the huge selection of draft beers and fine wines from all over the world, and soak it up with a street food feast or Sunday roast.
6. The Bell
Address & Map:617 Forest Rd, Walthamstow, E17 4NE
If you see dogs pulling to get to The Bell in Walthamstow, it’s because they know a doggy biscuit and fresh bowl of water is waiting for them. This is one of East London’s most dog-friendly places and staff love to spoil dogs inside. The Bell has a cosy interior, including an open fire. It does get busy with families on weekends, but there’s always a free spot in the The Bell’s secluded beer garden to while away the afternoon. The perfect stop-off after a long walk in nearby Epping Forest which is a haven for lakeside walks and leafy wood trails.
7. The Crown
Address & Map: 223 Grove Rd, E3 5SN
Hipster hotspot The Crown is where the doggy community congregates. Dogs are offered a bowl of delicious water with their owner’s drink and are free to roam around the pub, both outside in the beer garden and inside the main bar. You can enjoy your gastropub meal with your dog by your side to make you feel at home. Best of all, The Crown lives opposite the main gates to Victoria Park; the perfect spot for East London’s hounds to let off steam after lunch. A true dog-friendly pub find.
8. King Edward VII
Address & Map: 47 Broadway, E15 4BQ
The King Edward VII (or “the King Eddie” as it’s affectionately known) is set in the heart of Stratford and is known for being one of the only dog-friendly pubs in the area. Dogs aren’t allowed in the restaurant section, but there’s a surprising amount of space outside to pull up with your dog and dine alfresco. For cultured canines you’re perfectly placed for a good walk around the nearby Olympic park where dogs are allowed to roam the playgrounds with you.
East London’s just brimming with fantastic pubs, and as you can see plenty provide a warm welcome to four-legged guests. But if your dog isn’t a fan of boozing and schmoozing you can find loads of sitters who provide dog boarding in London on Rover.com. So next time you fancy a pint but you don’t want to feel guilty about leaving your dog behind, book a Rover sitter who’ll be delighted to spend some quality time with your little darling.