Just a short stroll from Alexandra Palace Station, you’ll find a delightful mix of pubs and bars perfect for pre-gig pints or relaxed evenings. The Starting Gate offers a classic pub atmosphere right near the station, while the Phoenix Bar & Pizzeria inside Ally Pally serves up stone-fired pizzas alongside a great selection of drinks. For those willing to wander a bit further, the Victoria Stakes provides a cosy setting with a solid drinks menu. Whether you’re after craft beers, cocktails, or a hearty meal, the area has something to suit every taste.
The Starting Gate
Address: Station Road, Wood Green, N22 7SS
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated directly opposite Alexandra Palace railway station, The Starting Gate is nestled in the heart of Wood Green. Its prime location makes it an ideal stop before or after events at Alexandra Palace or leisurely strolls through the nearby park.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a Grade II-listed Victorian building dating back to 1875, the pub exudes historic charm with its original etched glass, timber partitions, and ornate snob screens. The ambiance is a harmonious blend of traditional British pub warmth and contemporary comfort, attracting a diverse clientele seeking both nostalgia and modernity.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Fare with a Twist: The menu boasts a delightful array of pub classics and seasonal dishes. Highlights include the slow-cooked steak & pale ale pie, chicken schnitzel, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options like the spiced falafel burger. Sundays are special with traditional roasts, featuring options such as 21-day aged sirloin of beef and roasted lamb shoulder, all accompanied by the quintessential Yorkshire pudding and rich gravy.
- Quiz Night: Beyond its culinary offerings, The Starting Gate hosts engaging events, including a weekly quiz night every Monday at 7pm.
- Live Sports: For sports enthusiasts, the pub screens major events like the Six Nations and FA Cup Final, creating a lively atmosphere for fans to gather and cheer.
- Additional Amenities: The pub is dog-friendly, welcoming your four-legged companions. While there isn’t on-site parking, public transport options are plentiful, with Wood Green Station just 0.4 miles away.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
PJ O’Connors
Address: 239 High Road, Wood Green, N22 8HF
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? PJ O’Connors is situated on the bustling High Road in Wood Green, North London. It’s just a short stroll from Wood Green Underground Station (Piccadilly Line), making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The pub is also conveniently close to Alexandra Palace Station and several bus routes.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional Irish pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its lively ambiance, PJ O’Connors offers a mix of live music, sports screenings, and a friendly crowd, making it a popular spot for social gatherings and weekend nights out.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music: PJ O’Connors regularly hosts live music events, featuring both local talent and traditional Irish performances. The pub’s entertainment schedule contributes to its reputation as a vibrant nightlife destination in Wood Green.
- Sports Screenings: For sports enthusiasts, the pub offers live screenings of major sporting events. Whether it’s football, rugby, or other popular sports, patrons can enjoy the games in a lively and communal setting.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM
The Prince
Address: 1 Finsbury Rd, London, N22 8PA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on the corner of Finsbury Road and Trinity Road in North London, The Prince N22 is nestled between Wood Green and Bounds Green. It’s a short 5-minute walk from Alexandra Palace station and approximately 10 minutes from both Wood Green and Bounds Green stations on the Piccadilly Line
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a charming Victorian building dating back to 1870, The Prince exudes a blend of historic charm and contemporary flair. Following a community-led revival in 2016, the pub has become a beloved local spot, offering a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with a focus on quality food and drink.
What’s On Offer
- Modern British Dining: The Prince boasts a menu centred around modern British cuisine, featuring seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include Neal’s Yard cheeses, Cobble Lane cold cuts, and hearty mains like Blythburgh pork collar and Cornish hake. Their Sunday roast is particularly popular, offering options such as wild mushroom Wellington and Hereford sirloin, all served with traditional trimmings.
- Curated Drinks Selection: The pub offers an impressive selection of beverages, including small-batch wines and a rotating list of beers from independent breweries. Patrons can enjoy a variety of keg beers, cask ales, ciders, and low ABV options, with choices like Bohem Brewery’s Martina Lager and Two By Two Brewing’s Simcoe DDH Pale Ale .
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Dining Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday (Roast Service): 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Ludo’s
Address: Blue House Yard, 5 River Park Road, N22 7TB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Ludo’s is nestled within Blue House Yard, a creative community space in the heart of Wood Green. Just a short stroll from Wood Green Underground Station, this vibrant area is home to independent shops, studios, and markets, making it a cultural hub in North London.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a refurbished vintage red double-decker bus, Ludo’s offers a quirky and intimate setting. The venue exudes a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, with a touch of nostalgia. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and patrons can enjoy a relaxed environment infused with artistic flair.
What’s On Offer
- Unique Venue Experience: Ludo’s isn’t just a bar; it’s an experience. The double-decker bus has been transformed into a fully functional bar and event space. The top deck accommodates up to 38 guests, making it ideal for private events, screenings, and intimate gatherings.
- Diverse Events & Entertainment: The venue hosts a variety of events, including live music performances, comedy nights, film screenings, and pub quizzes. These events are curated to foster community engagement and provide a platform for local artists and performers.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Wednesday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Thursday: 16:00 – 23:30
- Friday: 16:00 – 00:00
- Saturday: 14:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 14:00 – 20:00
The Park Inn
Address: 12 Palace Gates Road, London, N22 7BN
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the Alexandra Palace area of North London, The Park Inn is conveniently located near Alexandra Palace railway station and within walking distance of Wood Green and Bounds Green Underground stations.
- What’s the Vibe? The Park Inn is a traditional Irish pub with a straightforward, no-frills atmosphere. Housed in a converted shop, it offers a relaxed setting with canteen-style tables and a separate seating area down a few steps at the rear. The pub is known for its friendly service and accommodating locals, making it a welcoming spot for a casual pint or to watch sports.
What’s On Offer
- Drinks Selection: Standard lagers, Strongbow, and Guinness are typically available, catering to those seeking a classic pub experience.
- Live Sports: The Park Inn features multiple plasma TVs showing Sky Sports, making it a popular spot for watching football matches and other sporting events.
- Poker: Additionally, there’s a poker machine and occasional poker games, adding to the pub’s entertainment offerings.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Every day 14:00-00:00.
Ready to Visit?
Tucked between Alexandra Palace and Wood Green, this lively pocket of North London is home to an eclectic mix of bars and pubs perfect for any mood or occasion. Whether you’re soaking up history at The Starting Gate, enjoying live music at PJ O’Connors, or unwinding in the quirky setting of Ludo’s double-decker bus, there’s a spot to suit every vibe. From classic British pub charm to modern twists and creative venues, the area offers a brilliant selection of drinks, food, and entertainment.
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Why not pop into The Prince or give PJ O’Connors a go next time you’re in the area? If you enjoy your visit, don’t forget to share this article with friends and leave a review – it helps others discover these hidden gems too! Cheers!
