If you live in Clapton there’s a big chance that Biddle Bros Builders is your local but, even if you don’t live nearby, it’s definitely worth travelling to.

The Venue
Biddle Bros Builders sits on a former builder’s yard on Lower Clapton Road. Having kept the name and the sign of the previous incumbents there’s a chance you might walk right past if you don’t keep your eyes open for it. As a converted venue, the bar maintains an awkward charm that falls somewhere between your old youth club and your living room. Comfortable and cosy at the entrance, it dovetails into a more spacious chasm of furniture oddities and arty installations. The short bar is filled with assorted trinkets to go with its beer taps and the stools that line up against it are usually occupied. The lavatories downstairs complete the eccentric ambience of the place, with a unisex policy spread around an original wacky basin.

The Atmosphere
Music makes its mark at Biddle Brothers as the back room houses the talents of whatever and whomever the management see fit to book. Bands and DJs regularly take over and, while the space may be small, the atmosphere separates the bar from most of Hackney’s other wishful thinkers. Like the decor, those who drink here are a mixture and there are no wonky glances if you happen to stand out. The staff here are overtly friendly, and they give a warm welcome whether you’re local or not. The nights at Biddle Bros are legendary but often go unnoticed by the masses, as despite the excellence it remains something of a hidden gem, open to all but loved only by those who care to try it.

The Drink
The taps offer Becks Vier and Staropramen from their unmarked silver spouts, and the cabinets behind are stocked well with a fair range of wine. There’s a small range of bottled beers in the fridges and an adequate selection of spirits but this bar isn’t really about the choice behind the bar.

The Last Word
Biddle Brothers has a location that makes it practically exclusive to those nearby and this is what helps to keep it consistently fresh. At the same time, if you can handle the bus through Hackney then Biddle Brothers has plenty to offer adventurous night owls.

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