The George & Dragon, Wanstead High Street: Sneak peek inside

The George & Dragon is finally launching in Wanstead High Street this Thursday (January 16).

Formerly Wetherspoons pub The George, the venue has undergone a complete overhaul since it closed in October 2024. 

The central island bar is watched over by George Orwell (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

The bar, previously on the left side of the building, has been moved to the centre - so that it is the first feature you notice when walking in. 

Its island design - coupled with the gold chandeliers surrounding it and the large windows of the pub - brings a light and open feel.

George Orwell remains watching over the pub from his portrait near the entrance, and is joined by a Saint George painting in the other corner. 

The dining area is separated from a more casual lounge space (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

Around 360 pieces of art adorn the pub walls in total, featuring everything from flowers and landscapes to famous landmarks.

READ MORE: The George & Dragon, Wanstead reopening date confirmed

Beyond the bar and main seating area, The George & Dragon also has a more relaxed lounge area, with sofas and low tables, and a function space upstairs.

The George & Dragon has around 360 artworks adorning its walls (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

This space, which has its own bar, is expected to be used for both private events and celebrations, and the pub's own events.

Refurbishment of the garden was still underway when we visited, but it is set for a new canopy over the outdoor seating area.

Low tables and sofas feature in the lounge area (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

Although the pub reopens on January 16, it is also hosting a launch party on January 31 - which has already sold out. 

Urban Pubs & Bars operations manager David Campbell said the company - who took over The George after its closure - is "super excited" to reopen a pub that has become a "cornerstone of the Wanstead community".

Earth tones are used throughout the lounge area (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

George & Dragon manager Kyle Turner added that they "can't wait to finally open" this week.

Kyle said: "We have been working hard to make sure everything is ready.

Upstairs, the private function space has its own bar (Image: Charlotte Anderson)

"When you arrive you will be greeted by a new island bar on the ground floor, we've refurbished the garden and we there's a much bigger space upstairs which is perfect for private parties.

"We hope everyone in Wanstead loves it as much as we do."