Lord Palmerston

Cozy Pub with Scenic Outdoor Viewing

There's a certain charm in the ragged edges of a traditional London pub, and this one, situated snugly amidst the humdrum of Walthamstow, invited me with its promises of sunlit gardens and cheering sports fans. Its allure lies not in haute cuisine or ornate ornamentations but rather in genuine hospitality and the halcyon days where a good pint and a lively football match suffice. The pub garden is indeed a gem—especially under the English summer sun—and with the clinking glasses and laughter mingling with distant sports commentary, it's a delightful medley of merriment and relaxation. A past frequenter's lament for lost pool tables might linger in the shadows, yet the amiable staff engage diligently, cradling both seasoned regulars and fresh faces with an unassuming warmth that feels genuinely communal.

However, fountains of frothy ambition seem to be drying amidst organizational hiccups—a note for any potential patron hoping for a gastropub experience: hold your horses. With no kitchen save for a packet of crisps to pair with the vast gin selection, meals are a mirage unless ordered externally. There are whispers of what could have been, from Sunday roasts that promised more than delivery allowed, to the dog-friendly interiors inviting tail-wagging bliss only until weary floors stick further under tiresome footfall. Still, this slightly frayed watering hole hangs on with pride, fostering an inclusive environment for families, loyal patrons, and anyone itching for football catch-ups on one of many screens. True, a double gin for £6 softens some edges—but prospective fanatics and game room nostalgics alike may find greater solace now at fancier alternatives on Walthamstow’s bustling street. — Clarissa Cuisinier