Feeling slightly nocturnal and sick of venues that chuck out early on? The Haggerston pub will sort out your desire to party into the wee hours.

The Venue
Previously Uncle Sams, The Haggerston has reinvented itself and managed to gather the original crowd that flocked here in a desperate attempt not to end their night. The bar has had a lick of paint, the rotten carpets and curtains have been removed, and the exposed brickwork inside has been given a scrub. That lingering stench that could almost trick you into thinking the smoking ban didn’t exist has also disappeared.

Fans of the previous Uncle Sams shouldn’t fret, however. The toilets are just as grubby and the outside is pretty much the same. In fact, the lit up script sign saying ‘Uncle Sams’ hasn’t even been removed from the outside of the building. But apparently, this is edgy and cool. Finding The Haggerston as a non-Dalston resident is a standard travelling into Hackney for a bar experience – you’ve basically got to get a bus. However, part of the appeal comes from the fact that not everyone is prepared to do this to visit a bar.

The Atmosphere
Just because The Haggerston has a secret charm feel – it doesn’t mean the people inside are pretentious. Yes, you’ve got the stereotypical Hoxtonites who have moved further East in search of ‘cool’, but there is a distinctly happy vibe in this place and even if you’re not wearing spray on denim or the latest Ray Bands inside, you won’t feel out of place.

The Music
The bar has a mixture of bands and DJ sets from Thursday onwards. Expect to hear a total mix in terms of genre – anything from ‘60s pop to the latest electro and indie sounds.

The Drink
You’ll wait for your drink to be served, but there is simply no point in getting agitated; you’ll be the only one who cares. The staff have a relaxed attitude and are unlikely to be bothered if you’re ranting at the bar about how long you’ve waited for a drink.

Because of the late licence attracting people who’ve already had a long night, The Haggerston doesn’t bother serving anything too hip. Drinks prices are also reflective of the fact that the place has to pay to stay open late. Soft drinks are from around £1.50 upwards, shots £3 and shots and mixers £3-£6 depending on whether you get a double. Pints are £3-£4.

The Last Word
The Haggerston picks up on where Uncle Sams started out – super random, super cool and super grotty. If you’re not ready to go home and don’t fancy a hard core club, this East End boozer is perfect.

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