The Hare

The Hare in London's East End stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the traditional British pub, a cultural touchstone that has witnessed nearly two centuries of the capital's evolution. Situated in the heart of Cambridge Heath, this former Truman's establishment has maintained its authentic character while adapting to the changing faces of Bethnal Green, offering both longtime locals and curious visitors a genuine slice of East End pub culture.

Dating back to the late eighteenth century, the current incarnation of The Hare emerged around 1860, during a period when London's East End was a bustling hub of industrial activity. The pub's Victorian architecture, with its characteristic Truman's styling, speaks to an era when such establishments served as the living rooms of working-class communities. Today, while many of its contemporaries have succumbed to gentrification or closure, The Hare maintains its original purpose as a neighborhood gathering spot.

The pub's 'L'-shaped layout preserves the traditional single-bar arrangement that encourages conversation and community. Deep red carpeting runs throughout, creating an atmosphere that feels both cozy and decidedly unpretentious. Long banquettes line the walls, their well-worn comfort speaking to countless evenings of socializing, while the prominent pool table, surrounded by framed Arsenal memorabilia, anchors the space in local sporting culture. This thoughtful preservation of traditional elements isn't mere nostalgia – it's a conscious celebration of the pub's role as a community hub.

What sets The Hare apart in London's increasingly homogenized pub landscape is its commitment to balancing tradition with contemporary expectations. The carefully curated beer selection spans from mainstream lagers to local London craft brews, acknowledging both old-school regulars and the area's newer residents. While the pub remains primarily drinks-focused, its partnership with local pizza vendors shows an understanding of modern dining habits without compromising its essential character.

The atmosphere achieves that elusive quality that defines great London pubs – simultaneously welcoming to newcomers while maintaining its core identity as a local's establishment. During football matches, the energy shifts as screens broadcast games to passionate supporters, while quieter afternoons see a mix of regulars sharing stories at the bar and young professionals seeking an authentic pub experience. The outdoor seating area, a relatively recent addition, provides a contemporary touch while respecting the building's historical character.

Under the stewardship of its current landlord, The Hare has maintained its position as a genuine community asset. The Wednesday quiz nights have become legendary in the area, drawing a diverse crowd that spans generations and backgrounds. The staff, known for their warmth and efficiency, embody the traditional role of pub workers as both servers and informal community coordinators, remembering regulars' preferences and making newcomers feel like they've been coming for years.

The pub's location, a short walk from both Bethnal Green tube station and Cambridge Heath overground, places it at a crossroads of old and new London. While the surrounding area has seen significant development, The Hare remains steadfast in its role as a neighborhood anchor, providing a space where local history breathes through every wooden beam and brass fitting.

For visitors seeking an authentic London pub experience, and locals looking for a genuine community space, The Hare in London offers something increasingly rare in the capital – a real pub that knows exactly what it is and what it means to its community. To step through its doors is to participate in a living tradition of East End hospitality, where the past doesn't just echo but continues to evolve. Whether you're settling in for a quiet afternoon pint or joining the lively evening crowd, you're not just visiting a pub – you're becoming part of a continuing story of London life that stretches back generations.