The White Hart

The White Hart sits at a busy Whitechapel crossroads, commanding attention with its grand Edwardian frontage featuring the titular deer emblem. Inside, you'll find a prim and proper atmosphere thanks to a recent McMullen refurbishment that's given this historic pub (standing since 1750, rebuilt around 1900) a fresh lease on life. The standout feature is the green-tiled bar, which looks like it belongs in a Leslie Green Tube station - it's properly impressive.

The visible kitchen beside the bar keeps things moving, serving up hearty British fare with burgers and pies being the particular specialties. The beer selection is solid with up to four casks and a dozen kegs offering a mix of reliable classics and lesser-known options. It's genuinely family-friendly with its own children's menu, and the upstairs room with its own bar is perfect for the weekly quiz or private hire.

What makes The White Hart work is that it doesn't try too hard. It's a proper local boozer that happens to look smart, serving decent food and drink in a space that feels both historic and contemporary. The outdoor tables let you people-watch on this vibrant stretch of East London, and the dog-friendly policy means you're not leaving your four-legged friends at home.