The Island Queen
‘The Queen’ is a traditional local pub with an almost tropical twist, creating a calm oasis filled with 11 of the world’s best beers on tap, and a selection of real ales.
The Island Queen, 87 Noel Rd, Islington, London, N1 8HD, UK, +4420 7354 8741
69 Colebrooke Row
The ‘Bar With No Name’ has long since shed its mysterious reputation and is now packed out every night with punters dying to sample the expertly crafted cocktails. Book ahead to avoid disappointment, and enjoy the deliciously Italian interior that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a film noir.
69 Colebrooke Row, Islington, London, N1 8AA, UK
Pisco Embassy
London’s first late-night Pisco bar challenges those who dare to think that this drink has had its moment. A Bolivian DJ keeps the party going until the early hours, and bartenders blend a selective 12-drink cocktail list. Entry is fairly exclusive (no under-23 year olds allowed), but once you’re in it’s well worth it.
Pisco Embassy, 176 Upper Street, Angel & Islington, London, N1 1RG, UK, +44 20 7354 2843
Slim Jim’s Liquor Store
For those looking for a slice of LA in London, Slim Jim’s is a safe haven. It has an authentic dive bar feel that manages to avoid kitsch and serves tasty, over-the-top American food. Sip on a bourbon, put a 50s song on the jukebox, and enjoy the seedy-but-sweet atmosphere.
Slim Jim’s Liquor Store, 112 Upper St, London, N1 1QN, UK, +44 20 7354 4364
The Four Sisters
This historical watering hole is perfect for those fed-up with chains and predictable gastro-pubs. Set in what was once a brothel, The Four Sisters seems to capture the atmosphere of old London and is full of dark, candlelit corners perfect for sipping on the bar’s home-brewed, syrupy concoctions. A particular highlight is the Negroni, which can either be poured straight from aged oak barrels, or decanted into a take-away glass bottle.
The Four Sisters, 25 Canonbury Ln, London, N1 2AS, UK, +44 20 7226 0955
Hoxley & Porter
A uniquely themed pub, Hoxley & Porter takes its inspiration from colonial explorers and the bar is filled with ferns, fans and filigree gold leaf. Step inside and be transported back in time as you sip on the fun, themed cocktails.
Hoxley & Porter, 153 Upper St, London, N1 1RA, UK, +44 20 7226 1375
The London Cocktail Club, Islington
Tucked away behind an ‘Apothecary Off-Licence’ exterior is one of Islington’s newest speakeasy bars, the LLC Pharmacy. Full of quiet nooks and crannies, the star of the show is the cocktail making masterclass and the ‘A&E’ (Alcohol & Entertainment) at the back. This is a bar to go to for a party.
London Cocktail Club Islington, 108 Essex Road, London, N1 8LX, UK
The Winchester
This is the perfect cosy spot to head to after a night on the town. With wallet-friendly 2-for-1 offers and a zingy Bloody Mary, The Winchester’s cosy charm will restore you back to health in no time.
The Winchester, 2 Essex Rd, London, N1 8LN, UK, +44 20 7704 8789
The Bull
Enjoy a huge selection of real ales at The Bull without the stained-carpeted trappings of the traditional old man’s pub. Fairy lights and dark woods create an intimate and modern atmosphere, and all punters will feel welcomed by the spacious interior, friendly staff, and absolutely delicious pub food.
The Bull, 100 Upper St, London, N1 0NP, UK, +44 20 7354 9174