The Royal Oak - Bethnal Green - Pub Reviews

Name: The Royal Oak

Location: 73 Columbia Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 7RG

Phone: +44 203 437 0131

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM - Midnight

• Sunday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No dedicated parking.

• Darts & Pool Table: No.

• Live Sports: No mention of live sports.

Food on Offer:

The Royal Oak features a diverse menu ranging from light snacks to hearty meals, with a particular focus on British classics. Popular choices include their Sunday roasts and small plates. Their no-nonsense approach to pub grub emphasizes quality and simplicity.

Beers on Tap:

True to its heritage, The Royal Oak offers a range of ales, with a particular focus on beers from Truman's Brewery, reflecting its history as a former Truman's pub.

Price Range:

Mid-range (££), offering good value for money on food and drinks, especially for its Sunday roasts and small plates.

Customer Service:

We'd like to highlight the friendly and welcoming staff, with prompt service and a warm atmosphere. While some visitors mention busyness on weekends due to the flower market, staff remain attentive and courteous.

Events & Special Nights:

While the pub does not host regular themed events, its location next to Columbia Road Flower Market makes it a popular spot on Sundays for market-goers seeking a relaxing drink and meal.

In-Depth Review:

Nestled in the heart of Columbia Road, The Royal Oak is a quintessential East London pub steeped in history. Built in 1923 by architect A.E. Sewell for Truman’s Brewery, the pub boasts a striking tiled exterior and retains much of its original interior charm, including wood panelling and a white Vitrolite ceiling. These features earned it a Grade II listing in 2015, preserving its significance as a historic inter-war pub.

The pub’s unique location next to the bustling Columbia Road Flower Market gives it a lively and vibrant atmosphere, particularly on Sundays when flower enthusiasts crowd the area. Despite the influx of visitors, the pub manages to maintain a homely, welcoming vibe. The layout is open-plan, yet it retains a sense of intimacy, especially in its charming white-walled garden—a peaceful retreat adorned with lush greenery.

Frequented by a mix of locals, tourists, and market-goers, The Royal Oak attracts a diverse clientele. Families, couples, and solo visitors alike can be found enjoying its no-nonsense British fare. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with something for everyone. Their Sunday roast, in particular, comes highly recommended, offering a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with one of their ales.

One of the standout aspects of The Royal Oak is its dedication to preserving the essence of a traditional pub experience. The beer selection is rooted in its Truman’s legacy, offering a range of quality ales that appeal to both casual drinkers and aficionados. The staff are consistently praised for their friendly service, contributing to the pub’s reputation as a warm and inviting space.

Accessibility-wise, the pub is dog-friendly and offers outdoor seating, making it a great spot for those looking to enjoy a pint with their furry friends. While it doesn’t have its own parking, public transport options are nearby, with Hoxton station a short walk away.

Overall, The Royal Oak excels in delivering a genuine East London pub experience. Its rich history, coupled with a commitment to quality food and drink, makes it a standout destination for anyone exploring Bethnal Green. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner to enjoy a pint or a lively spot after a day at the flower market, this pub offers something special.