Best of the Best: The North Star hits better than a bullseye

Last Thursday, we took a trip down to the The North Star in Leytonstone for an evening of friendly competition with the locals.

The North Star is a lovely spot for knocking back some pints of Best, and all in good sportsmanship. Our Best of the Best darts competition included rounds of darts, opening the floor to everyone, from casual players to rookies to regular pros showing us how it's done.

This back-street boozer, shrouded by a leafy wander down a lane connected to Leytonstone High Street, transporting us from today's East London into a timeless bubble. Complete with a Thai kitchen and made-to-order pizza from Papi's Munchies, we're spoilt for choice on snacks and slices between rounds. 

The pub front's outdoor seating spills out to the street, where most of the pub-goers live, have always lived, or even born on (and very proud to have been). 

As the weather took a turn from London's ongoing heatwaves, light rain brought more of the pub's patrons in, and with it a flood of dart-loving competitors full of stories to tell. Local group of friends with their own darts ready in their denim jacket pockets, a mother and son celebrating over some pints together.

A bit of competition truly brought the best out of each player, and some new local friends were made, with plans of rematches. 

In a time of technology dependency and physical disconnect, it comes as a piece of reassurance that something as simple as a cork board and a couple of pints can change how to spend a meagre Thursday evening.