The Army and Navy London
A True London Boozer
Sarra from London
A no-nonsense boozer that stays true to its old-school identity, The Army and Navy is the kind of place where you pop in for a quiet pint and somehow end up drinking the night away. Nestled near Newington Green, at the corner of Matthias Road and Elton Street, this Grade II-listed red-brick building was built in the 1930s for Truman Brewery and still holds onto its Neo-Georgian charm.
Its cosy interior features old wooden furniture, vintage vitrolite ceilings typical of Truman’s pubs, and a well-worn dark blue and burgundy oriental-style carpet soaked in both beer and history. Outside, the real star is the sprawling beer garden. Spacious and packed with covered, heated seating for when the weather turns, there is always a spot to settle in.
Expect a mix of older locals and Hackney’s indie crowd enjoying a lazy afternoon or a long evening session. On match days, finding a seat might be a challenge, yet if you are in for football, the huge TV screens and electric atmosphere will reward you.
The menu is limited to crisps and nuts, yet if after a few pints you fancy a bite, you can either bring in fish & chips from Micky’s Chippy across the street or have Yard Sale Pizza delivered straight to the pub. No frills, no gimmicks—just a proper London pub with good beer, a great crowd, and the kind of character that’s hard to find these days.
London Spotter Sarra
About this spot
1-3 Matthias Road, Mayville Estate
- Mon - Sat 11:00 - 00:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00
Guinness Pint:
£
6
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