Duke of Edinburgh, Plaistow  

Regular site visitors know that the preservation of pub heritage is an issue close to our heart. The Duke of Edinburgh has been pouring pints since 1909, so you'd think that we'd welcome its continued existence. However, when we come across an establishment as utterly baneful as this, you'll forgive us for wondering whether the Luftwaffe (or the G.L.C.) might have done everyone a favour in wiping this place out. On our Sunday visit, we were immediately greeted by a large poster outlining '15 reasons why beer is better than women' and another depicting a (rabid-looking) British bulldog with the slogan 'Glory and Honour'. Several giant England flags adorn the walls and ceiling, plus a homemade West Ham drape. As our drinks were poured, a nearby laager of middle-aged locals proceeded to pass offensive comments questioning our dress sense, bearing and sexual proclivities - the sort of welcome we can only recall receiving in a pub on the A13 some time ago. Needless to say, there is no decent beer here - not even Guinness.

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)