If you're a curmudgeonly old soul whose number one hobby is mocking the youth of today, the area around Hackney Downs is excellent scouting ground for new scowling material. And this pub — formerly the Amhurst Arms, now bombastically named Hand of Glory — fits with that vibe.
Apparently the pub re-explores the rich foundations of Cool Britannia. We're not sure we totally buy that, but have a lot of love for the colourful and eclectic exhibition of British folk culture that lines the walls. There are plenty of pagan adjacent artefacts here to watch over you as you sup your drink of choice.
Speaking of booze, beer selection on tap is alright, but it doesn't blow us away. However, this is Hackney so a reliable pint of Five Points is on cask. Better is the range of wine and cocktails.
Two of the big attractions here are the kitchen and live music. We didn't try any of the food, although just a quick glance at the menu was enough to perk up our stomach. There was a DJ though, rather needlessly spinning tunes to a splayed out collection of 15 people at most. Still, this was an early evening one Thursday in January. We're sure things perk up when everyone's a bit less broke.
On Facebook, Twitter (@HandOfGloryPub) and Instagram.
Last updated January 2019.
