The Bow Bells: A Historic East End Pub Steeped in Cockney Tradition
Historic East End pub with over 150 years of Cockney spirit, lively sports, and a warm, authentic atmosphere on Bow Road.
The Bow Bells is a vibrant, family-run pub located at 116 Bow Road in London’s East End. With over 150 years of history, it embodies true Cockney spirit and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its lively sports screenings, traditional British pub culture, and a colorful, authentic interior, it remains a beloved local hub where visitors can enjoy hearty food, a pint, and a taste of East London 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: 5 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 a Premier League match to experience the lively sports atmosphere and community spirit.
- Try the classic British pub food like burgers and chips, freshly prepared and popular among locals.
- Enjoy the historic interior with its wooden paneling and traditional pub layout for an authentic East End experience.
- Check out the quirky haunted ladies’ toilets for a fun and unique pub story.
- Support local charities by contributing to the collection tins found on the bar.
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 or Bow Road Station on the District and Hammersmith & City lines. Both stations are about a 5-7 minute walk from The Bow Bells. Single fares cost around £2.50 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Bow Road, including routes 8, 25, 108, and 205. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with travel times varying from central London around 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. A contactless payment card or Oyster is accepted.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to The Bow Bells typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately £12-£20. Note that parking near the pub is limited and street parking restrictions apply.
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 in Bow's Heart
Nestled on Bow Road since the 1860s, The Bow Bells pub stands as a proud emblem of East London’s rich cultural tapestry. Named after the famous Bow Bells of St Mary-le Bow church in the City of London, this establishment carries the legacy of Cockney identity, where being born within earshot of the bells traditionally defines a 'true Cockney.' Although the actual bells belong to a church miles away, the pub embraces this heritage with pride, reflected in its vibrant signage and interior decor.Authentic East End Atmosphere
The pub’s bright orange facade is unmistakable, adorned with grape-topped pilasters, ornate copper lanterns, and heritage spotlights that highlight its historic character. Inside, the space is a genuine East End boozer rather than a trendy bar, with wooden paneling, an L-shaped bar, cozy corners, and communal areas. The ambiance is lively and welcoming, catering to a diverse crowd from local workers and sports fans to young couples, all drawn by the pub’s friendly vibe and community spirit.Sporting Hub and Social Space
The Bow Bells is known for its strong connection to sports, especially football, with big screens regularly showing Premier League matches and other major events. The pub serves as a gathering place for West Ham fans, reflecting the club’s move to the Olympic Stadium nearby. The walls feature memorabilia such as a picture of Bobby Moore, enhancing the sporting atmosphere. The dartboard and pool table add to the competitive fun, making it a lively spot for both casual drinkers and dedicated sports enthusiasts.Heritage and Local Stories
Beyond its role as a pub, The Bow Bells is steeped in local lore. The ladies’ toilets are said to be haunted, adding a quirky charm to the venue. The pub also supports local causes, with charity tins on the bar for organizations like the Air Ambulance and St Joseph’s Hospice. Its long-standing presence through Bow’s transformation from a bustling Victorian neighborhood to a modern urban area speaks to its resilience and importance as a community anchor.Welcoming and Inclusive
As a family-run establishment, The Bow Bells prides itself on inclusivity and warmth. It welcomes locals and visitors alike, offering hearty British pub fare such as burgers and chips alongside a well-kept selection of drinks. The staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to an environment where everyone feels at home, whether popping in for a quick pint or settling in for a night of sport and socializing.Preserving East End Identity
The Bow Bells remains a rare surviving pub in an area where many historic venues have closed or transformed. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of East London, balancing tradition with a touch of modernity. Its connection to the Cockney heritage, vibrant community role, and authentic atmosphere make it a must-visit for those seeking to experience the true character of Bow and its people.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
2.5 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Execution Dock
3.2 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
3.6 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Princelet St
3.7 km
Discover the historical beauty of Princelet Street in London, a notable street rich in culture and architectural charm, perfect for every traveler.
Brick Lane Mosque
3.7 km
A 280-year architectural chronicle of immigrant faith, where Huguenots, Jews, and Bangladeshis have each found spiritual sanctuary.
Ornamental Canal
3.7 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
3.8 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
3.8 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Arnold Circus
3.8 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Christ Church Spitalfields
3.9 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, an iconic Anglican church in the heart of London.
Execution Dock House
4.0 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Shoreditch Church
4.0 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Shoreditch
4.1 km
East London's creative epicenter where street art, independent culture, and culinary innovation define urban cool.
Northumbria University - London
4.2 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
4.2 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
0.7 km
A historic Victorian cemetery transformed into a tranquil nature reserve and green sanctuary in East London’s heart.
ABBA Arena
0.8 km
Experience ABBA like never before in London’s groundbreaking ABBA Arena, where music meets cutting-edge digital spectacle.
Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
0.9 km
Historic tidal mills meet tranquil riverside green space in East London’s unique Three Mills Island and Green.
High St
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London’s retail heritage where history, culture, and shopping converge on High Street.
London Stadium
1.2 km
Experience the iconic London Stadium, home to West Ham United and a legacy of Olympic glory, sports, and world-class entertainment.
ArcelorMittal Orbit
1.3 km
Experience London’s tallest sculpture, panoramic Olympic Park views, and the world’s longest tunnel slide all in one iconic landmark.
Mile End Park
1.3 km
A vibrant 32-hectare linear park blending nature, art, and sport along Regent’s Canal in East London.
London Aquatics Centre
1.5 km
Experience world-class swimming and diving in Zaha Hadid’s iconic London Aquatics Centre, a legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Ragged School Museum
1.5 km
Explore Victorian East End life and the pioneering free education movement at London’s Ragged School Museum, housed in historic canal warehouses.
Victoria Park
1.6 km
London’s largest historic park offering scenic lakes, vibrant community events, and year-round green space in the heart of the East End.
Copper Box Arena
1.8 km
A dynamic sports arena blending Olympic legacy with community spirit in the heart of London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Westfield Stratford City
1.9 km
Discover East London's largest urban shopping centre with 300+ shops, diverse dining, entertainment, and community spirit at Westfield Stratford City.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
2.0 km
Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.
West India Quay
2.3 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
London Museum Docklands
2.3 km
Step into 400 years of London’s maritime history in a stunning riverside warehouse with interactive exhibits and free entry daily.
Essential places to dine
Da Terra Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Behind Restaurant
2.9 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Brawn
3.5 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Lyle's
4.0 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
4.1 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
4.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
The Clove Club
4.1 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
4.2 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
4.2 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
La Dame de Pic London
4.5 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
4.6 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Midpoint Restaurant
4.8 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Restaurant Story
4.9 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
5.0 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Sefa Restaurant
5.1 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
3.1 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Triangle Store
3.2 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
3.6 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
3.7 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
The Truman Brewery Markets
3.8 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
DPUS Designer Outlet
3.8 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Fashion St
3.8 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Luna & Curious
3.9 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Sclater Street Market
3.9 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Commercial St
3.9 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Spitalfields Market
4.0 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Petticoat Lane Market
4.1 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
4.2 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
4.2 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Traders Gate
4.6 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Satan's Whiskers
2.5 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
2.7 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Eighteen Sky Bar
3.1 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
All Bar One Greenwich
3.3 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Behind This Wall
3.4 km
Discover Hackney’s cozy basement bar with bespoke cocktails, vintage sounds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to savor every sip.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
3.7 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
3.7 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.7 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
3.8 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
3.8 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
Td 338 Bar
4.0 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Signature Brew Haggerston
4.0 km
Where East London’s craft beer culture meets live music, creativity, and canal-side charm in a vibrant railway arch taproom.
TT
4.0 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
Discount Suit Company
4.1 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Bell
4.1 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
3.0 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
American Express Invites Lounge
3.3 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
E1
3.6 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
LA Lounge
3.7 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
Basing House - Shoreditch
4.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Hoxton Pony
4.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
4.2 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
4.6 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Steel Yard
5.3 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
5.4 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
London Best Night Clubs
5.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
CQ LOUNGE
5.8 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Venue
5.9 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
The Bunker
5.9 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
