Afternoon:
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Evening Standard rating
Howl at the Moon is a much improved Queen's Head
16 Dec 2009
We almost breathed a sigh of relief when we found the old Queen's Head finally closed.
It was a pretty awful place, grotty, scary, barely under control and reviewing here was something of a nightmare; it wasn't a surprise to find it finally boarded up.
However, we were surprised to find someone had bravely reopened the pub a few months ago. And from first impressions, it looks like they've done a pretty good job of it.
The exterior might appear somewhat homespun, but stepping inside, you're greeted by pleasant, friendly, comfortable interior.
There's Pride on the hand pumps, plus plenty of other beers, wines and spirits and the service is prompt and friendly. There's usually a lot going on here - from music quizzes to DJs and live music, and there's TV for the spot.
It's a buzzy place, with a lively atmosphere and a refreshing antidote to the somewhat depressing surroundings around here - and with so many pubs closing down, it's a relief to see a pub brought back from beyond the grave. The Howl at the Moon deserves to be a success.
NEAREST STATION: Old Street station
FEATURES: real ales, DJ, open after 11pm, TV
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
Reader views (5)
It may be Hoxton Street, but I would also call it the corner of Harman Street.I lived the other end of Harman Street, No 1! I was born to that address some 60+ years ago. I used to play there with the daughter of the licensee some 55 years ago. It had a very impressive "upstairs" function room and balcony. We used to dress up and wave like the queen from the balcony. I visited the Queens Head, some, i guess , 5 years ago with Derek from Upminster who visited the new establishment recently and left his comment. I was sad to hear the Old Queens Head had closed and then surprised to hear of a reopening. I may revisit at some time, cannot say I like the new name though.
- Myra From Gt Wakering, Essex UK, 18/03/2010 10:47
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Only one other customer when I went in there yesterday about 1.30rm, but the barman was friendly and the variety of drinks impressive. Guess I just picked the wrong time of day.
- Derek, Upminster UK, 10/02/2010 11:43
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Great pub, very friendly staff, love the selection of beers.
- Kevin, London, 06/02/2010 09:36
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Amazing atmosphere with great people, it's a great pub to hang out with your friends and especially in the East End which turned into a pretentious area.
They have a great selection of beers and great French wines at a cheap price.They always have something on and invite people to propose ideas.
It's everyone's pub!
- V, London, 11/01/2010 11:13
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Great pub, very nice guys running the place and always good banter. Its turned into a regular haunt for me and my mates.
- Hoxton Lad, Hoxton, 21/12/2009 17:40
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