Patience is a virtue and sometimes hard to keep in check when you know that like all works of art perfection takes time. The good people at East London pub retainers Remarkable Pubs delivered their latest masterpiece in October 2019 and is now one of my favourite pubs in their portfolio. The residents of Forest Gate are very lucky to have such a handsome dame all shiny and new.

For many years I’ve commented that this monster of a building perched on the edge of Wanstead Flats just needed some TLC to make it a great pub again. For far too long the building was a haggard wreck making the corner look tired and prompting many passers by to question if the pub was even still open. Inside was equally as barren and seemed to be in terminal decline, sleepwalking towards an early grave. It’s finally had the investment it was crying out for. No expense has been spared or any minute detail been over looked. This is a now very special pub and will have something for everyone.

From the adult only areas inside and out, snug with real fire, 25 lines on the bar, signature Remarkable jukebox and gorgeous exterior tiling I know I’ll be a regular visitor come rain or shine. Added bonuses are the conservatory, very generous seating areas, with high bar stools and simplistic but striking stain glasses windows.

The jewel in its crown is of course the Holly Tree Railway out in the back garden. I had the pleasure of catching a ride on the opening night and it was a new experience for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s one even the big kids well into adulthood will enjoy in the kind weather and gives the pub a unique gem. After lovely restoring the tiles and adding beautiful pub branding she’s now an imposing building that once again dominates the corner and now has a real presence.

This is one to visit after bringing the dog after a walk on the Flats or to spin another dime in the Jukebox, grab a pint and enjoy first class East London hospitality from GM Laura and her stellar team. This pub is a modern delight.