The Stags Head

Open. Closed. Open. Great news that the Stag’s Head’s enforced closure was temporarily lived and now its back with much the same line-up of traditional pub features alongside its vibrant love of all things loud. After rent increases forced its closure in 2010, the Stag has risen from the ashes to make sure that this area on the cusp of Kingsland Road between Shoreditch and Dalston retains the ability to launch live music at people once again. DIY bands regularly take over one half of the pub that has a mocked up soundsystem and a set of turntables for nights that play anything from sixties garage to psychedelic pop. The tradition comes from the other side, matching an older crowd with the younger locals in a setting that looks like it hasn’t changed in years. Tattered Cinzano posters hold tight to the walls, a piano sits in a corner and a weathered set of furniture provides the comfort. There are plenty of lagers on tap, that include Star, Heineken and Becks Vier but the real beauty is the number of real ales like Oxford Gold, Fullers ESB and Master Brew. But, perhaps the Stag’s Head’s most endearing quality is its staff who actually add to the charm of the venue and provide all the affableness that a local pub should have- and now I’m going to shed a tear…