The pints are flowing again at one of Stratford’s oldest pubs. The King Edward VII — known to regulars simply as “The King Eddie” — welcomed drinkers back through its doors on September 5, bringing to an end a closure that stretched back to January.
The extensive makeover was carried out by Stonegate Pub Partners alongside publican William Farrell, who already runs four pubs across Essex.
During the months of works, the scaffolding-shrouded building sparked plenty of speculation among passers-by — many of them fearing the worst for the old boozer.
A proper East End welcome back
The reopening was marked with a celebration weekend that drew a steady stream of locals. DJ Russy B provided the music, the Pearly King and Queen of Stratford put in an appearance, and West Ham supporters packed in to watch the Hammers’ Championship clash with Derby County live on the screens.
Star guest was West Ham legend Tony Cottee, who held a meet and greet with fans.
Mr Farrell said the weekend had been “a fantastic start”. He added: “So many people thought they would see a block of flats, or something completely different, behind the scaffolding. It has been great to see how happy people are to have a proper East End pub back open in Stratford.”
Three centuries of history
Originally known as The King of Prussia, the pub dates back to the early 18th century and retains its original tiling, etched glass and period flooring. One window still carries the outline of a German soldier in a pointed helmet, a nod to its earliest incarnation — details that secure its place among the capital’s historic pubs.
Mr Farrell said: “It’s too good a building, with too much history, to sit empty. The pub has been part of Stratford’s story for generations and we’re proud to be giving it a new chapter.”
What’s on at the new-look King Eddie
The refurbishment included roofing repairs, re-sanded bar areas, new furnishings and the full re-instatement of the trade kitchen. From here on, the pub will host live music every weekend, a monthly comedy night and regular screenings of West Ham United fixtures throughout the season.
The menu leans into traditional East End pub favourites — pie and mash, ham, egg and chips, sandwiches and burgers. Dogs are welcome too, so four-legged regulars can settle in alongside their owners.
“We want people popping in for a pint after work, coming down to watch the football, enjoying the live music and catching up with friends,” Mr Farrell said.
For a pub that has watched over Stratford for the best part of three centuries, the new chapter is a welcome one — and the regulars, it seems, agree.
