Looking for a top-notch pint or a classy cocktail near Finchley Central Tube? You’re in luck! This leafy North London spot is home to some cracking bars and cosy pubs perfect for a night out or a laid-back drink with mates. From charming traditional pubs to trendy spots with craft beer and killer nibbles, Finchley Central has a little something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best places to raise a glass in this underrated corner of London!
The King of Prussia
Address: 363 Regents Park Road, London, N3 1DH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated just a two-minute walk from Finchley Central station, The King of Prussia is conveniently located on Regents Park Road, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This independently owned neighbourhood pub boasts a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. The interior features stylish décor with a rustic, copper-topped central bar, suspended greenery, and a mix of retro-inspired lounge seating and banquettes, creating a cosy yet lively environment. The conservatory, with its retractable roof, offers flexible outdoor dining, perfect for any weather. The pub is also dog-friendly, welcoming four-legged friends with treats and water bowls.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Cocktails: The King of Prussia boasts an impressive selection of beverages, including 16 rotating craft beers on keg and 4 cask hand-pulls, catering to beer enthusiasts. For those with different tastes, there is a carefully curated wine list and bespoke cocktails crafted to perfection.
- Hand-Stretched Sourdough Pizzas: Renowned for their homemade sourdough pizzas, the pub offers a variety of toppings, including Moroccan lamb and Korean chicken, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The pizzas have received praise for their quality and taste, making them a standout feature of the menu.
- Events & Entertainment: The King of Prussia hosts a range of events to keep patrons entertained. Regular activities include a pub quiz every Tuesday, ‘Two for One’ pizza deals on Mondays, and ‘Wings Wednesdays’. Additionally, the pub features a free-to-play jukebox, regularly updated with favourite tunes, and a shuffleboard for those looking to engage in some friendly competition.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Annie’s Freehouse
Address: 168 Ballards Lane, London, N3 2PA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Annie’s Freehouse is situated on Ballards Lane in Finchley, North London, conveniently located near West Finchley Underground Station.
- What’s the Vibe? This cosy and casual pub exudes traditional Irish charm, featuring old-fashioned décor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons appreciate its friendly service and lively environment, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What’s On Offer
- Live Performances & Karaoke: Annie’s Freehouse regularly hosts live music and karaoke nights, contributing to its vibrant and entertaining ambiance.
- Outdoor Seating and Dog-Friendly Environment: The pub offers outdoor seating options and welcomes dogs, making it an ideal spot for patrons looking to enjoy a drink with their canine companions in the beer garden.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Annie’s Freehouse is open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
The Catcher in the Rye
Address: 317-319 Regents Park Road, London, N3 1DP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Regents Park Road in Finchley Central, The Catcher in the Rye is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Finchley Central Station. Upon exiting the station, turn left along Regents Park Road to find the pub.
- What’s the Vibe? Opened in 1994 and named after J.D. Salinger’s classic novel, this relaxed and elegant pub offers a cosy interior adorned with bold wall art, comfortable button-backed seating, and fireplaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere ideal for both winter evenings and casual gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Gastronomic Delights: The Catcher in the Rye serves great British food, including signature dishes like the Monterey Jack & bacon burger and the Earth burger. The menu caters to various tastes, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
- Extensive Drink Selection: The pub boasts a wide range of cask and craft beers, an exceptional choice of spirits, and an extensive gin selection with over 30 varieties, making it a haven for gin enthusiasts.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Joiners
Address: 51 Ballards Lane, London, N3 1XP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Joiners is situated on Ballards Lane in Finchley, North London, within the London Borough of Barnet. It’s easily accessible via public transport, with Finchley Central Underground station a short walk away.
- What’s the Vibe? TheThe pub combines a stylish yet rustic interior with a welcoming atmosphere. It features stunning outdoor areas, making it a versatile spot for both relaxed afternoons and lively evenings. The presence of large HD screens broadcasting live sports events adds to its dynamic ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Live Sports Viewing: The Joiners is equipped with large HD screens showing all the latest sporting events, including football (Premier League, Europa League, FA Women’s Super League), rugby union (Six Nations), boxing, and Formula 1. This makes it an ideal venue for sports enthusiasts looking to enjoy games in a communal setting.
- Diverse Food and Drink Menu: The pub offers a wide range of food and drink options, including craft beers, quality wines, real ales, and cocktails. Daily food service ensures that patrons can enjoy meals alongside their beverages.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ready to Visit?
Nestled in leafy Finchley Central, this North London gem is packed with delightful pubs and bars catering to all tastes. Whether you’re after the stylish craft beer offerings at The King of Prussia, or the cosy charm and live entertainment at Annie’s Freehouse, this area has you covered. Add to that the relaxed elegance of The Catcher in the Rye or the sporty vibe of The Joiners, and you’ll find Finchley Central is an underrated hub for a memorable night out.
Share the Love
Why not pop into one of these standout spots, like The King of Prussia for its craft beers or Annie’s Freehouse for its vibrant karaoke nights? Don’t forget to share this guide with friends, and leave a review after your visit to help others discover Finchley Central’s lively pub scene!