This pub was voted one of the best in the area by Londonist readers.
The Palm Tree is a remarkable survivor, standing alone in a Blitzed-out street. Inside, too, time has stopped. The same couple, Val and Alf, have presided over the bar for years, and they rarely change a thing. The pub is split into two non-communicating areas. The southern-most gets a mixed crowd of older regulars and younger adventurers in search of a 'traditional East End boozer' (copyright, every pub guide ever). It's here that you'll find regular jazz sessions from the tiny stage area in the corner. The other room is more spacious and tends to accumulate regulars.
Charming though the pub is, bathed in a red hue that seems designed to prevent photography, it has to be said that the beer choice is limited, and was not well kept on our last two visits. We've also heard plenty of moans about staff unfriendliness (unless you're a regular), while others see this as part of the experience. Ho-hum to all that. You don't come to the Palm Tree for great beer or beaming smiles, but for the unique atmosphere of a genuine survivor. If it's all too much, you can always sit out on the canal-side drinking area during warmer weather. Another top tip... come here ahead of Lovebox festival if you want a quiet drink. All the other pubs near the park are heaving, but this place stays quiet.
Last updated March 2015.
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