The pub retains its two room layout, built in Victorian times, with some remains of the original drinking lobby and a former office behind the bar. The many engraved mirrors, bare wood floors and furniture complement the dark wood bar counter, and original fireplaces are retained. The imaginative food menu is displayed on chalk boards, with the left side room serving as a restaurant. The opening hours given are for the bar.
A large retractable TV screen is available for sports events. At the rear, a staircase leads up to a functions room equipped with its own bar, available for hire. In 2013, following the closure of the nearby Pakenham, the number of handpumps doubled to four and the range improved. Post-covid we seem to be down to 2 cask beers, although a picture on their website shows all 4 in use, they have had Redemption, usually they always have something local.
A recent visitor (May 2022) reports as follows - "Happy hour at this pub Monday afternoon. Not sure of exact times, but paid only £3 odd for a pint of Redemption at around 5pm" July 2024 - Confirm Happy Hour Monday to Friday 3pm to 6pm with reductions on a range of drinks including beers. Two cask ales on offer, Sambrook's Wandle and Rebellion Overthrow
Historic Interest
Local Listing:- Dual granite frontage, King's Cross Road and Lloyd Baker Street. King's Cross Road: Three stallrisers, five pilasters, two clear glass arched windows, two timber panelled/glass (one glass/one blank) double doors (both closed)
One star - A pub interior of special national historic interest
Listed status: Not listed
Victorian or Edwardian pub still retaining much of its original fittings including a large former publican's office.
The vestibule on the right has a ‘Union Tavern’ mosaic floor, and above the door here is ‘Union Tavern’ in ironwork. The unused door from the right of the vestibule has two ‘Saloon Bar’ glazed panels, clearly suggesting that it originally led to the Saloon Bar. Two floor to ceiling partitions are immediately to the left and right as you enter through the vestibule doorway, both retaining a number of decorative glass panels including some deep cut mirrored panels.
The island bar counter is original and the bar-back fitting (painted dark grey) has numerous engraved mirrors enclosing a former publican's office. Some original windows and door panels are now in frames on the wall, and a Victorian water tap remains on the counter, now sadly lacking its handle. A good Lincrusta ceiling remains in the former Saloon Bar. Now very much a gastro-pub, the left hand side is for dining and has a food counter at the rear.
This Pub serves no changing beers and 2 regular beers.
Union Tavern, London