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Northcote Arms
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
traditionallocal-crowdhistoric
About the Vibe
The Northcote Arms is a proper old-school pub tucked away on Grove Green Road, far from the tourist traps of central London. This CAMRA-protected pub dates back to 1896 and still retains its original character—think Victorian bar counters, matchboard paneling, and those charming carved mermaids on the gable ends. It's the kind of place where locals gather for a pint without pretension, and you'll find real ale flowing freely in a setting that hasn't been "modernised" into oblivion. The two-bar layout (public bar and saloon) gives you options depending on your mood, and the stained glass panels with floral and bird motifs are still intact. It's not fancy, but it's authentic—and in East London, that's worth more than any Instagram filter.
Known For
- •CAMRA National Inventory listed interior
- •original Victorian bar counters
- •carved mermaid gable ends
- •stained glass panels with floral designs
Best For
traditional pub experiencereal ale enthusiastsquiet pint with locals
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 10, 2026
A genuine traditional pub with character
The Northcote Arms is a breath of fresh air in a city where many historic pubs have been gentrified beyond recognition. Walking in, you're immediately struck by the original features—the Victorian bar counter, the matchboard panelling, and those beautiful stained glass panels that have survived over a century. It's not the flashiest spot in East London, but that's exactly what makes it special. You'll find a mix of regulars who've been coming here for years, all gathered around the bar chatting about everything from football to the weather.
The pub has two distinct bars—the public bar in the corner and the saloon bar reached through an original floor-to-ceiling screen. Both spaces feel intimate and unpretentious. The real ale selection is solid, and the staff clearly take pride in serving it properly. It's not a destination for late-night partying or people-watching, but if you want to experience what a traditional London pub actually feels like, this is it. The carved mermaids on the exterior and the stained glass with those little birds in the panels are details that show this place has been cared for, not just preserved.
It's a four-star spot because while it lacks some of the modern amenities you might expect, it more than makes up for it with authenticity and character. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and you'll leave feeling like you've discovered something real rather than just another tourist trap.