What exactly is it? A “classic seaside resort without leaving London,” says the brewery bar behind it, Big Penny Social (formerly Truman Brewery). But unlike the picturesque shores of nearby Walthamstow Wetlands, this beach is firmly water-free in the more industrial confines of the Blackhorse Road Beer Mile (read more about that here).
And what goes on there? Well, a lot of sand (65 tonnes of it, in fact). Plus beach huts (available to rent), table seating – and, of course deckchairs carefully placed to soak up the rays.
What should I eat? What do you expect? It’s posh fish & chips from their new beachfront chippy, Penny’s: we’re talking golden batter, just-opaque cod – with either tartare, or, what we recommend, a spicy chilli and coconut sambal. This really transformed the seaside staple.
Also good: a cone of juicy scampi with avocado and jalapeno sauce.
LOCAL ADVERTISING
And to drink? We rated the ice-cold margaritas as the last of the day’s slim rays of sunshine lit the golden sand. But there are the usual Big Penny craft beers and lagers, as well as wines.
Any thing else? Yep: soft serve ice creams (with flakes), a holiday-vibe soundtrack with DJs playing perfect beach tunes, Walthamstow-on-Sea bars of rock.
What’s the vibe like? It was a grey old afternoon as we arrived for last week’s launch, but the sun flashed at us intermittently. A note of caution: it’s over-18s in the evenings, while at weekends on Saturday afternoon it’s reserved for families with beach balls, games and toys. One to avoid if you’re child-free, perhaps (or on that important first Hinge date).
Would you go back? Yes, perhaps on a crawl through the rest of the Blackhorse Beer Mile. And 100% yes, if this drizzly summer ever improves.
Walthamstow-on-Sea is at Big Penny Social E17, more here, follow @bigpennysocial
Leytonstoner were guests at Big Penny Social.
