The Carlton Arms fills a nook in the residential back streets of the East End, keeping the flame of the local pub alight.

The Venue
Located on a corner of Bancroft Road, just a short walk from Stepney Green, the Carlton Arms is a well-maintained building that gives off a sense of warmth at first sight.

Inside, it’s all old timber fireplaces, exposed brickwork and copper pots and pans and could quite easily have been the prototype for a thousand other cosy little locals. The furniture is plentiful and the size means you’re never more than a whisper from the bar. Sadly, it’s slightly spoiled by the tacky caricatures that hang in frames on the wall, although at least there’s a black and white etching of Marilyn Monroe with features untouched, outshining the rest. A projector points to a focal screen that takes up a whole wall and shows live events.

The Atmosphere
Despite The Carlton Arms’ clandestine location in the middle of a residential neighbourhood, you don’t get the feeling that you need to have been born within earshot of the Bow Bells to receive a good level of service. Locals dominate and although it doesn’t have a level of attraction to pull people from miles around, it’s still fun. Power pop from the lungs of female songstresses may not be for everyone but taken with a pinch of salt, the sounds on the stereo can be enjoyed.

The Drink
There’s a small selection of wine and a line of the usual big brand spirits. A lot of beer is ordered and, for a small pub, The Carlton Arms has a good range. Stella, Becks Vier, Budweiser and Fosters are all available on draught.

The Last Word
The Carlton Arms is a cosy local that can be welcoming and inclusive and, on the right night, even impromptu singalongs can happen.

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