The Marksman may not have the most glamorous location or wowing aesthetic appeal but inside this dark pub there’s more than meets the eye.

The Venue
On the outside, The Marksman doesn’t look like anything more than all the other forgotten boozers on Hackney Road that seem to only attract their regulars, but the difference here is that care hasn’t deserted the place.

Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in an enclosure of cushioned benches that spread around the wall with tables and chairs dotted around in front of them. Glistening mirrors are just a precursor to the super spangly chandeliers that hang at the back of the bar down millionaire's row. This area is a little more private than the rest of the pub and if you’re looking to link your group onto a whole room full of unfamiliar faces then it’s here where you should reside.

The Atmosphere
One of the main draws of classic pubs like this is the community atmosphere, which is why the lounge-like area at the entrance will always be the pick for sociable entertainment. There may be no privacy here but the loud giggles of the G and T set and bassy bellowings from their ale swilling other halves is at least as entertaining as a Wetherspoon quiz machine.

The crowd look mostly local, which is understandable given the fact that for most, the thrills of the Marksman on face value wouldn’t compare favourably to the drinking houses round the corner on Columbia Road. Whether or not others deem it au courant enough, the groups and couples that cram onto the sofa benches keep the atmosphere beyond trends.

The Food
Perhaps the strangest and most interesting thing about the Marksman is its menu. The look of the place certainly doesn’t say ‘gastro cuisine’ but the short menu definitely provokes a double take. The mains are a fair price with two courses for £10 or three for £15 without any restrictions on what you can choose. There are two excellent looking fish dishes with a choice between pan fried cod with rocket salad or a seared and grilled trout. The lamb shank is also a sight and, once again, good value.

The Drink
The bar is covered with different spirits that adorn most public houses and there is a good list of wine. The ales are a strong pull with several changing casks, although you’ll always find Timothy Taylor’s Landlord. In terms of lager there is the usual Stella, the premium weakness of Becks Vier and the hipsters favourite Red Stripe, which is a welcome sight.

The Marksman was thrust into the spotlight recently when it announced its regular barter for beer event. Rather than parting with credit crunch tight pennies for a pint you can offer goods or services (all above board, mind!) instead. Everything from CDs to the offer to tune up the piano have been successful.

The Last Word
Hackney Road hasn’t got a lot in the way of competition. After looking at the positives of its peers that line the flower market, The Marksman has achieved greatness in its own right. A pleasant and surprising East London boozer.

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