Top O' The Morning, Bow  

The site of the Top o' the Morning pub has an interesting and notorious history. Thomas Briggs, the victim of the first railway murder in England, in 1864, was brought here shortly before he died of his wounds. The story caused a sensation at the time, not least because of the police's transatlantic pursuit of the murderer. The pub doesn't exactly dine out on this piece of London pub-lore, although outside here is a plaque to the unfortunate Mr. Briggs. Inside the pub is decorated with a random mishmash of objects, including a couple of single-sculls suspended from the ceiling. Thankfully it's bereft of the standard accoutrements from the Irish-pub furnishings warehouse. There's no real ale on here, but, naturally, it serves a decent pint of Guinness. Although staunchly one for the locals, we were made to feel very welcome on our visit. They're used to it, a lot of walkers pop in on their walks along the canal tow path and it's handy for Victoria Park too. Just try not to think of that story if you're heading back to Hackney Wick station...

reviewed:
02/02/2008

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

Sky TV

beer garden

live music

kids allowed before 7:00pm

dogs welcome

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