Valentine, Gants Hill

Closed suddenly in Feb 2017 with an uncertain future. Notices posted in June 2018 indicated that it was threatened with demolition, but in early July 2018 the pub won a reprieve, the Ilford Recorder newspaper reported that Tide Construction Limited withdrew plans to flatten the 1930s former pub and now residents are rallying to protect the Valentine Pub from future redevelopment.

This large, three storey, "Brewers-Tudor" building, has tall chimneys, two big gables, black timber framing, some cream weatherboarding and diamond leaded windows. The spacious interior is broken up by pillars, half height screens and several changes of level. Dance floor. Loud music, plus regular entertainment, such as karaoke, DJ, live music and quizzes, were held until closure. Many TVs, showed sports or music videos. There were three pool tables, lawn to rear and a small terrace for smokers.