Stranded in no-mans-land between the Dome and the new Millennium Village, the Pilot was once a community local. A sign on the pub wall says Ceylon Place and is dated 1801, then, Tea Clippers were piloted up the Thames to supply the warehouses nearby. Now all that remains of a once thriving community is the pub and a terrace of artisans houses which act as the letting quarters, a clever if slightly odd idea.
The five attractive bedrooms make an ideal stop-over point for the Dome (now O2 Arena) which is literally a five minute walk away. The pub is surprisingly old fashioned and familiar compared with its new neighbours. It has several seating areas off the long bar, a split level section provides an area for children. At the rear is a landscaped garden, complete with water feature.
The Pilot specialises in fresh fish which is delivered daily, Wednesday to Friday, otherwise there’s a good range of classic pub dishes. A children’s menu is available too. The beers are from Fuller’s of course and there are some decent wines on offer. Finding it can be tricky, half way up East Parkside look for a gap in the central reservation, and turn right into River Way.
paulk, 2009-11-11
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