North Star, Leytonstone  

Set in a charming area filled with early Victorian cottages and narrow streets, The North Star and its surroundings look as if they've not changed for a century. Its even more surprising that that this charming and tranquil area is a stones throw from the massive Green Man roundabout and all the associated unpleasantness of dual carriageways, traffic and drive-thru McDonald's. Pretty from the outside, inside it's a rather basic and slightly tatty pub. Despite this, we were pleased to discover three pumps offering some well kept ales. Also a pleasure was the friendly service - not just dedicated to the band of clearly loyal regulars, but offered to everyone. On our visit, a healthily mixed crowd was in evidence, with young flat-sharers, dog walkers and older geezers all cohabiting perfectly well. Although perhaps not outstanding in any particular way, pubs like this are getting rarer to find and if this were your local, you'd be happy.

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