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The Black Lion
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
traditionalfriendlylocal
About the Vibe
The Black Lion is one of those rare East End pubs that feels like stepping into a time machine—old-school charm with a genuinely warm, welcoming vibe. Located just a stone's throw from Plaistow tube, it's become a local institution where you'll find real ales on tap, a solid food menu featuring homemade pies and bakes, and a beer garden perfect for summer afternoons. Whether you're catching a West Ham match on the big screen or just grabbing a pint with mates, this place delivers authentic pub culture without the pretension.
Known For
- •real ales and cask beer
- •homemade pub food
- •West Ham match screenings
- •large beer garden
Best For
after-work drinksmatch day gatheringsfamily-friendly meals
1 review
City InsidersEditorialMarch 30, 2026
Authentic East End pub with real character
The Black Lion is a proper old-school East London pub that hasn't lost its soul in the face of gentrification. Walk in and you're hit with that classic pub atmosphere—wooden beams, traditional bar fittings, and the kind of friendly banter you don't find in chain pubs anymore. The landlord Tom (or his family) clearly takes pride in what they do, from keeping the cask ales in excellent condition to serving up generous portions of homemade food.
Food-wise, don't expect Michelin stars, but you will get solid pub classics: pies, jackets, salads, and bakes made from fresh ingredients. The drinks selection is where this place really shines, with a rotating range of real ales alongside premium beers and an impressive whisky collection. It's also one of the few places in Canning Town where you can still get a well-poured Guinness.
On match days, it gets properly busy, especially for West Ham games, but that's part of the charm—you're in the thick of local football culture. The beer garden is a real bonus in summer, and the free parking (for patrons) is a huge plus in this part of London. It's not perfect—some reviewers wish they'd add Sunday roasts and pie and mash—but for an authentic, no-frills pub experience in Plaistow, this is the real deal.