This locals’ favourite seems destined to remain this way forever and ever.

The Venue
Located on a sunny corner of Bethnal Green Road - a short walk from Brick Lane - the Marquis of Cornwallis has one of those traditional pub facades that could hold just about any goings on within.

Once inside, the dark red and mustard yellow walls encase a traditional or, more appropriately, old fashioned interior with exposed, crumbling brickwork, bare benches and rickety old tables. The large bar is a centrepiece, although the wobbly-pictured television set competes with the pool table for attention. There really isn’t much more going on in this very average pub.

The Atmosphere
For a stranger, the atmosphere could prove a problem within the Marquis of Cornwallis. The locals keep their backs turned to you and aren’t particularly welcoming – you may feel you’ve encroached on their territory. Apart from this it’s OK. Here it’s a solo mission of entertainment and who knew that a game of pool against yourself could be so much fun.

The Drink
The bar at the Marquis of Cornwallis is just about the only place that there could have been some semblance of effort made but instead once you push (very cautiously) through the occupied bar stools to a position to be served you’ll be disappointed. The spirits are made up of a bland selection and there is no mention of a range of wine. There is Fosters, Carlsberg and Stella on tap, as well as Guinness.

The Last Word
The Marquis of Cornwallis is best appreciated from the outside unless you’re a local.

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