The Bow Bells: Historic East End Pub with Cockney Spirit
A historic East End pub since the 1860s, The Bow Bells blends Cockney heritage with lively local charm and warm hospitality.
The Bow Bells is a vibrant, family-run pub located at 116 Bow Road in London’s East End. Established in the 1860s, it blends traditional Cockney pub culture with a lively atmosphere, welcoming locals and visitors alike. Known for its warm hospitality, hearty food, and sports screenings, this iconic pub retains a strong community feel while celebrating its rich history and connection to East London’s heritage.
A brief summary to The Bow Bells
- 116 Bow Rd, London, Bow, E3 3AA, GB
- +442089800744
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-1 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during football matches for an electric atmosphere with passionate local fans.
- Try the classic British pub food like burgers and chips, known for being hearty and well-prepared.
- Check out the pub’s unique features like the brass bell behind the bar and the reputedly haunted ladies’ toilet.
- Enjoy the mix of cosy corners and communal spaces inside, perfect for both intimate and social gatherings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Bow Church station on the DLR line, which is about a 5-minute walk from The Bow Bells. Services run frequently throughout the day, with single fares around £2.80 using contactless payment. The area is well connected but can be busy during peak hours.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Bow Road, including routes 25, 108, and 205, with stops within a 3-minute walk of the pub. Buses run regularly from central London, with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Expect moderate traffic delays during rush hours.
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Taxi / Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available in East London. A typical journey from central London to The Bow Bells takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £12–£20. Availability is high but prices surge during peak times or events.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to The Bow Bells is a pleasant option, with flat terrain and sidewalks. From Bow Church station, it takes about 5 minutes on foot. The area is safe and pedestrian-friendly during daylight hours.
The Bow Bells location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Bow Bells
A Storied Landmark of East London Pub Culture
The Bow Bells has stood on Bow Road since the 1860s, making it one of the enduring fixtures of East London's pub scene. Named after the famous Bow Bells of St Mary-le-Bow Church in Cheapside—whose ringing traditionally defines a true Cockney—the pub embraces its heritage while serving as a lively social hub. Its bright orange façade, ornate copper lanterns, and heritage spotlights make it instantly recognizable, while the pub sign featuring a Pearly King with a pint beside church bells captures the spirit of Cockney culture.Atmosphere and Interior Character
Inside, The Bow Bells offers an authentic East End boozer experience rather than a trendy bar. The L-shaped saloon bar, with wooden panelling and a mix of cosy and communal spaces, invites patrons to relax and socialize. A dartboard and pool table add to the traditional pub vibe, while sports events, especially football matches, play on the big screen, attracting a diverse crowd from local workers to young couples. The pub’s walls feature memorabilia such as a picture of football legend Bobby Moore, reflecting its connection to West Ham fans and local sporting culture.Community and Cultural Connections
The Bow Bells is more than a pub; it is a community cornerstone that welcomes everyone with warmth and inclusivity. It retains a family-run ethos, fostering a friendly environment where locals and visitors feel at home. The pub supports local causes with charity tins for the Air Ambulance and St Joseph’s Hospice, reinforcing its role as a community pillar. Its reputation as a true Cockney pub ties it to the cultural identity of East London, celebrating resilience, humor, and local pride.Food, Drink, and Entertainment
Offering a moderate price range, The Bow Bells serves hearty British pub fare such as burgers and chips, alongside a selection of drinks that cater to varied tastes. While some note a focus on lager over ale, the food is consistently praised for quality and warmth. The pub’s lively atmosphere peaks during major sporting events, making it a favored spot for football fans and social gatherings. The mix of traditional pub games and modern entertainment ensures there is something for everyone.Local Legends and Unique Features
Adding to its charm, The Bow Bells is reputed to have a haunted ladies’ toilet, a quirky anecdote that adds a touch of mystery to the venue. The brass bell behind the bar, inscribed with "Bow Bells," is rung to mark the time, connecting patrons to the pub’s namesake and its storied past. This blend of folklore and tradition enriches the visitor experience, making The Bow Bells a memorable stop on any East London exploration.Enduring Appeal in a Changing Landscape
Despite the many changes in Bow and the wider East End, where many historic pubs have disappeared or transformed, The Bow Bells remains a steadfast symbol of local heritage. It balances tradition with a welcoming, lively ambiance that appeals to a broad audience. Whether you come for a quiet pint, a hearty meal, or to catch the latest football match, The Bow Bells offers an authentic slice of London’s East End spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Execution Dock
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International House
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Princelet St
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Ornamental Canal
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Northumbria University - London
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Unmissable attractions to see
ABBA Arena
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Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
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London Stadium
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ArcelorMittal Orbit
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Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, London's iconic sculpture and observation deck in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Mile End Park
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London Aquatics Centre
1.5 km
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Ragged School Museum
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Victoria Park
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Copper Box Arena
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St Anne's Church, Limehouse
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West India Quay
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London Museum Docklands
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Young V&A
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Ratcliff Beach
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Canary Wharf
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Essential places to dine
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Behind Restaurant
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Brawn
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Lyle's
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Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
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Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
4.1 km
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The Clove Club
4.1 km
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Nest Restaurant Old Street
4.2 km
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Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
4.2 km
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La Dame de Pic London
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14 Hills
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Cutty Sark
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Midpoint Restaurant
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Restaurant Story
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The Sail Loft, Greenwich
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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69b Boutique Sustainable Style
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Triangle Store
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Brick Lane Souvenirs
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DPUS Designer Outlet
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Middlesex Textiles
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Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
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Traders Gate
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Tower of London Shop
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Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
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Painted hall gift shop
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Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
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Barbican Shop
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Rare Books & Curios
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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TT
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
