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The Haggerston
š438 Kingsland Rd, London E8 4AA
š Haggerston
šŗ Ā£6.20 Paulaner
The Haggerston sits on the border between Dalston and Haggerston in Hackney, East London. The nearest station is Haggerston.
This pub dates back to 1802 and was originally called The Swan. It was rebuilt in the mid-nineteenth century, and the plinth at the top of the building still bears its former name.
Over the years it has operated under several names, including āRichmondsā and āUncle Samāsā, before becoming The Haggerston in 2008.
This is a one-bar pub with rustic, traditional charm. The servery is to the right with a marble-topped counter. In the right corner sits the old Joanna; to the left, a DJ booth; and opposite are intimate pew-style booths. The decor includes a boarded floor, exposed brick walls, and an eclectic mix of photos, signs, and mirrors.
Upstairs is a function room, traditionally decorated and complete with its own bar. A standout feature for me was a superb black-and-white photo of the brothers who ran the pub for many years. At the rear is a partially covered beer garden, with more outdoor seating at the front.
The beer selection is excellent, offering premium lagers, local independent brews, and one cask ale from
@fivepointsbrew .I went for a Paulaner, a personal favouriteātop pint, average price. No food is served, but there are plenty of bar snacks if youāre peckish.
I arrived at 2pm on a mild Saturday in November. The pub was quiet, chilled, and set to a superb soul and jazz soundtrack. Service was first class; the team were friendly and personable. I even received a guided tour from the Guvānor, who has been here for ten years and is an absolute gent.
This pub really comes alive at night, with live piano on Wednesdays and Thursdays and DJ sets on Fridays and Saturdays. A true institution here is The Alan Weekes Jazz Quintet, which has performed every Sunday for over 25 years.
A fiercely independent pub and a joy to visit. The beer is well chosen, the setting intimate, and the team here are some of the best in the business. I left this boozer with a big smile. I 100% recommend you visit.
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@thehaggerston for updates.
š
1st November 2025