If you’re near Drayton Park Rail Station and in need of a pint or a cheeky cocktail, you’re in luck! This lively area is home to some cracking bars and cosy pubs perfect for a post-commute drink or a pre-match tipple. From traditional boozers pouring proper ales to trendy spots shaking up creative cocktails, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab your mates and let’s explore the best watering holes Drayton Park has to offer!
Highbury Library
Address: 66A Drayton Park, London, N5 1ND
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Highbury Library is situated directly opposite the Emirates Stadium in Highbury, London, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors, especially on match days.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue offers a laid-back and cosy atmosphere, characterised by its eclectic mix of music and vibrant décor. The interior boasts an impressive collection of vinyl records, allowing patrons to select and play their favourites, enhancing the personalised and relaxed ambiance. The bar also features a spacious garden area, described as a “sun trap,” providing a peaceful retreat in suburban North London.
What’s On Offer:
- Natural & Biodynamic Wines: Highbury Library specialises in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, with an emphasis on rare selections from small vineyards. Their offerings include orange wines and Pet Nat, appealing to wine enthusiasts seeking unique and authentic flavours.
- Vinyl Record Collection: The bar houses an extensive vinyl collection, encouraging patrons to browse and select records to be played during their visit. This feature adds a nostalgic and interactive element to the experience, catering to music lovers and creating a distinctive ambiance.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Tuesday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Wednesday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Thursday: 16:00 – 23:00
- Friday: 13:00 – 23:00
- Saturday: 13:00 – 23:00
- Sunday: 13:00 – 20:00
The Drayton Park
Address: 66 Drayton Park, London, N5 1ND
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Drayton Park is situated in Highbury, North London, just a short walk from the Emirates Stadium, making it a popular spot for football enthusiasts.
- What’s the Vibe? Following a comprehensive refurbishment, The Drayton Park seamlessly blends modern design with the timeless charm of a traditional English pub. The interior features a harmonious mix of contemporary aesthetics and classic elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The addition of a beer garden adorned with fairy lights offers patrons a serene outdoor retreat, perfect for leisurely afternoons or evenings.
What’s On Offer
- Diverse Beverage Selection: While The Drayton Park does not offer cask ales, it provides a variety of keg options, including selections from Camden and Meantime breweries. Patrons have praised the quality of the lagers, noting their excellent preparation.
- Dog-Friendly Environment: The pub is known for its welcoming atmosphere, extending its hospitality to both patrons and their canine companions, making it a favoured spot for dog owners.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon-Fri 14:0023:00; Sat 12:00-00:00; Sun 12:00-22:00.
Victoria Tavern
Address: 203 Holloway Rd, London, N7 8DL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Holloway Road in North London, the Victoria Tavern is conveniently located near Holloway Road Underground Station, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The Victoria Tavern offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, blending traditional pub charm with modern entertainment. The interior is spacious and quirky, featuring retro arcade games and a mini crazy golf course upstairs, appealing to a diverse crowd, including students from the nearby London Metropolitan University. The pub is known for its friendly staff and vibrant environment, making it a popular spot for socialising and relaxation.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Beers & Flatboys Pizza: The pub boasts a rotating selection of craft beers, including local brews and the ever-popular Guinness. Complementing the drinks is the Flatboys Pizza menu, offering thin and filling pizzas perfect for pairing with a pint. The menu also includes nachos, tenders, mac & cheese, and fries for those seeking alternatives to pizza.
- Live Sports & Entertainment: Equipped with big screens, the Victoria Tavern is a hub for sports enthusiasts, regularly broadcasting major football matches, boxing events, and other sports. Additionally, the pub hosts events like Friday Night Shots, where the music intensifies, and special drinks are offered, enhancing the lively atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – Midnight
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – Midnight
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
The Highbury Barn Tavern
Address: 26 Highbury Park, London, N5 2AB
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated in the heart of Highbury, North London, The Highbury Barn Tavern is conveniently located near the Emirates Stadium, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? This traditional British pub exudes a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. With its period features and modern touches, it offers a cosy setting for patrons seeking a relaxed dining or drinking experience.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Cuisine: The tavern prides itself on serving classic British dishes with a contemporary twist. Their all-day menu features pub favourites such as Godfrey’s Sausage & Mash, Beer Battered Haddock & Chips, and handcrafted lasagna. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Sunday Roasts: Renowned for their mouth-watering Sunday roasts, The Highbury Barn Tavern offers a selection of meats accompanied by all the traditional trimmings. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends on a leisurely Sunday.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: Midday – 10pm
- Tuesday to Saturday: Midday – 11pm
- Sunday: Midday – 10pm
- Food Service Times:
- Monday: Midday – 6pm
- Tuesday to Saturday: Midday – 9pm
- Sunday: Midday – 6pm
- Opening Hours:
The Horatia
Address: 98-102 Holloway Road, London, N7 8JE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on Holloway Road in Highbury East, The Horatia is conveniently located within walking distance of Highbury & Islington station.
- What’s the Vibe? Established in 1937, The Horatia exudes the charm of a traditional North London pub. Its spacious, open-plan interior features a blend of modern and classic décor, including a notable tiled portrait of Lord Nelson near the entrance. The pub offers a welcoming atmosphere with various seating areas, including dining spaces and booths, catering to both intimate gatherings and larger groups. Patrons can enjoy amenities such as table football, board games, and retro gaming consoles, enhancing the lively and engaging environment.
What’s On Offer
- Live Vinyl DJ Sets: Every Saturday, The Horatia hosts ‘Strictly Vinyl’ nights, featuring DJs spinning an eclectic mix of soul, jazz, funk, reggae, and more, all from vinyl records. These events provide a nostalgic auditory experience, complemented by 2-for-1 cocktail offers for attendees who register in advance.
- Weekly Pub Quiz: On Wednesday evenings, The Horatia runs a lively pub quiz, offering patrons the chance to test their knowledge while enjoying the pub’s extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The quiz has become a staple event, attracting both locals and newcomers seeking a fun and interactive midweek activity.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ready to Visit?
Drayton Park and its surroundings are brimming with vibrant pubs and bars, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern flair. Whether you fancy a cosy pint at the Highbury Library with its unique vinyl collection or a lively evening at The Horatia with its retro games and DJ nights, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on The Drayton Park’s beer garden or the mouth-watering Sunday roasts at The Highbury Barn Tavern for a true North London experience.
Share the Love
Why not visit one of these fantastic venues and try their offerings for yourself? Share this guide with your friends, and don’t forget to leave a review after your visit to let others know about your favourite spot!