The Lord Nelson

If you're hunting for an authentic slice of East End London pub life, The Lord Nelson in London's Isle of Dogs is the kind of place that makes time travelers of us all. Perched at the southern tip of this historic peninsula, this Victorian-era watering hole has been keeping locals hydrated and happy since 1855, when wine merchant Henry Johnson first opened its doors. And while the Thames has seen countless changes sweep past its banks, The Lord Nelson stands as proudly as its namesake admiral.

You might not expect to find such a perfect piece of old London tucked away here, but that's exactly what makes The Lord Nelson special. This isn't some tourist-trap pub trying to sell you an Instagram-worthy version of British culture – it's the real deal, complete with a fascinating secret that football fans will love. Between 1886 and 1890, Millwall FC played their home games right behind the pub, making this hallowed ground for proper football historians. These days, you're more likely to catch Premier League matches on the big screens, but that sporting spirit lives on in every corner.

Step inside, and you'll find yourself wrapped in the warm embrace of a properly done-up traditional pub that's managed to modernize without losing its soul. The recent makeover has given the place a contemporary shine while preserving all the character you'd hope for in a 160-year-old establishment. The L-shaped bar area feels like it's giving you a friendly hug, with the servery taking pride of place on the right-hand side. It's the kind of setup that makes ordering your next round feel less like a transaction and more like a chat with an old friend.

The air here is rich with the kind of atmosphere money can't buy – a heady mixture of conversation, laughter, and the occasional cheer from whatever match is playing. The gentle clack of pool balls from the table at the back provides a steady backbeat, while the dartboard stands ready for impromptu tournaments. When the weather permits, the courtyard beer garden offers a perfect urban oasis for solving the world's problems over a pint or two.

Speaking of pints, The Lord Nelson keeps things refreshingly affordable in a city where a decent drink can sometimes cost as much as a small car. The beer selection strikes that perfect balance between familiar favorites and just enough variety to keep things interesting. While they usually offer a rotating cask ale (the Doom Bar, when available, is a local favorite), the keg selection is solid and reasonably priced. When you can still get a proper pint of Guinness for under a fiver in London, you know you're onto something good.

What really sets this place apart is its steadfast refusal to become yet another characterless chain pub. The Lord Nelson has that increasingly rare quality of being a genuine local where regulars and newcomers alike are welcomed with the same warm smile. The staff here aren't just serving drinks; they're curating an experience that's become increasingly hard to find in modern London – one where conversations flow as freely as the beer, and where you're just as likely to end up chatting with a dock worker as you are with a Canary Wharf banker.

Entertainment here is gloriously old school. Live sports on Sky Sports and TNT Sports draw passionate crowds, while DJ nights and karaoke sessions transform the space into something altogether more raucous. The pool table and dartboard provide endless entertainment for those looking to prove their skills or just pass a pleasant evening. There's no pretense, no gimmicks – just honest pub entertainment done right.

You'll find The Lord Nelson just a stone's throw from Island Gardens DLR station, making it surprisingly accessible despite its tucked-away feel. It's also a perfect pit stop if you're brave enough to have walked through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel – nothing beats emerging from that Victorian engineering marvel and heading straight for a well-earned pint.

So here's my advice: make the trip to The Lord Nelson while places like this still exist in London. Bring friends, find a spot at the bar, and settle in for an evening that feels refreshingly real in a city that sometimes forgets the value of authenticity. Whether you're a local, a London explorer, or just someone who appreciates a proper pub, The Lord Nelson offers something increasingly precious – a genuine East End pub experience at prices that won't make your eyes water. Just don't forget to raise a glass to Admiral Nelson himself – he'd definitely approve of this particular legacy.