A time-honoured east London community boozer, the Birkbeck Tavern has just had an invigorating infusion of new activity. It now hosts a frequent series of music events sponsored by successful promoter, What’s Cookin', and other attractions are also planned. A couple of things haven’t changed: its friendliness to locals and its strong devotion to real ale.

The Venue
The Birkbeck Tavern is set within the suburban terraces of Leyton. For decades it was deservedly well-patronised but had increasingly suffered from the decline that’s so sadly prevalent among non-town centre pubs. But now it’s fighting back.

It’s a handsome corner Edwardian edifice of two storeys. The lower is fronted by dark green and red tiles and a series of leaded windows; the upper is brown brick and glass. These are separated by a distinctive cream frieze. The interior’s one large bar is predominantly a symphony of brown wooden furniture and red upholstery. The latter is also a feature of the settles around the wall. But the most notable physical feature of the Birkbeck Tavern is a splendid and extensive garden at the back. This is kept in a fine state by a professional gardener. There are manicured lawns, abundant bushes, flower beds and comfortable wooden picnic tables. It is much in-demand on good days.

The Atmosphere
Managers Stephen Ferguson and Alison Vickers have operated What’s Cookin' since 2003 and brought it with them to the Birkbeck Tavern. Its speciality is American roots music – bluegrass, country, folk, rockabilly and swing. These styles are performed by selected individuals and groups – often touring from the USA and Canada. There is a policy of not charging patrons but, despite this, the quality is so high that What’s Cookin' has devotees well beyond London. People have even been known to come over from Europe to catch their favourite acts.

Ten music events are held each month and these have been embraced by local folk who welcome the pub’s new vitality. They are held either in the downstairs bar, or in an upstairs bar decorated with music memorabilia.

Other activities are being fostered. There’s a monthly crumble club. At this a noted patisseur gives advice and demonstrations on savoury and sweet crumble dishes. There are also plans for a monthly cinema club when there’ll be free screenings. Movies from the Leyton master, Alfred Hitchcock, are bound to feature.

The Drink
The Birkbeck Tavern regularly features in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide and the new management is firmly committed to real ale. One continuing feature is its own bitter, Rita’s Special, commemorating a cockney barmaid of long service and great character. Other ales include Mighty Oak’s Maldon Gold and there is a policy of offering beers from emerging London micros. Redemption of Tottenham’s Trinity is often on handpump and nearby Leyton micro, East London Brewing provides an ELB pale ale and Foundation bitter. In addition, four lagers are on tap and the wine list is being extended to cope with the newer clientele.

The Last Word
This treasured community pub is experiencing a welcome revival. Go along to feel the vibes and quaff the real ale.

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