A Swift Half at
The Golden Heart

Having a pint down the local is an East End custom not to be missed. The Golden Heart pub stands opposite Old Spitalfields Market where Commercial Street meets Hanbury Street, framing the corner with customers who spill out onto the pavement. Iconic landlady and East London native Sandra Esquilant is responsible for the pub’s seminal reputation.

Esquilan formed meaningful relationships with local characters from the Brit art scene in the 90’s and her longstanding friendships are evident throughout the pub – various Tracey Emin pieces are displayed on the walls and hung in the window. Regulars include the Chapmans, Sarah Lucas and Gilbert and George as well as market traders, city workers and tourists. A diverse scene reflective of its unique location.

There’s rumours the pub has the ghost, philanthropist Elizabeth Fry (1780-1845), who allegedly lives in the cellar and occasionally hovers across the salon bar. This distinctive pub is an essential stop off for any Spitalfields visitor.

Where:

110 Commercial St,
London E1 6LZ

Open daily from 11am.