Star Rating

* * * * * * * * * *

The Queens Arms 

The Queens Arms was large spit and sawdust ''did you see the match last night'' pub in the heart of Walthamstow Village. Since the refurb earlier this year all of the spit and some of the sawdust have been removed. The exterior has been updated for a much more contemporary look featuring attractive hanging flower baskets. Another improvement is the removal of those sad looking benches that used to hug the kurb at the corner of the East Avenue and Orford Road. 
Inside, most of the pubby nick-nacks have been removed and with a lick of paint and a new carpet the interior has a cleaner, fresher look - but the Queens Arms is still the Queens Arms. 
The pool table and dartboard have been replaced by an huge TV on a stand (similar to the ones you see in room sets at Ikea) along with a few high tables and barstools. 
The stage is still there and the Queens still has the occasional 'do' at the weekends featuring either live music or the resident DJ when the pub is open until 12.30am. 
Big screen football (and other sports events) are still a big draw for the Queens and rumour has it they provide good old fashioned 'dip your fingers in' bar snacks on match days. The Queens remains the only pub in the village to show the footy. 
Beer is good, they serve an above-average pint of Guinness a couple of cask ales – Fuller’s London Pride and Greene King IPA - both of which are generally in good nick. Premium lagers are cold and sparkling. Prices are reasonable (for the Village).
The garden, formerly the back yard, has been renovated and transformed into a pleasant area with attractive pot plants.
Overall the changes to the Queens are good. I may pop in to watch the TV myself when Leyton Orient get into Europe.

October 2009