This pub was editorially chosen for inclusion by Londonist.
This place looks a right old shambles from the outside. Weather-beaten panelling and a permanently curtailed paint-job invite quips about the 'Clapped-out Hart'. It's all a front, of course, for the place has only been open since 2012 (though inheriting a site that's been pubbish since 1722), and inside is one of the finest pubs around, as good as anything else in London.
If the front bar's busy, have a wander round the back. The large Victorian space is divided into quadrants, with areas for dining, relaxing and even a small booth for whispering couples. A decent sized beer garden out the back means the place can accommodate hundreds if it has to.
Best of all is the beer selection, with eight draught ales drawn from (mostly) local breweries. This being an Antic pub, you won't be short-changed by the food either, and the kitchen recently signed up an Ottolenghi chef. An attention to quality draws in large family crowds at weekends, with Sunday roasts particularly popular.
Quiz night is Tuesday.
On Facebook. On Twitter as @ClaptonHart
Last updated May 2015.