If you’re looking to quench your thirst in Upper Holloway, you’re in for a treat! From cosy, traditional pubs oozing with charm to trendy bars where mixologists conjure up inventive cocktails, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re after a quiet pint, a lively night out, or just a chilled evening with friends, Upper Holloway’s bar scene promises an unforgettable experience. Cheers to great nights out in one of London’s coolest hangouts!
Mother Red Cap
Address: 665 Holloway Rd, Archway, London N19 5SE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Mother Red Cap is a notable pub located in the bustling area of Archway, London. It stands out for its proximity to the Archway tube station, making it easily accessible. It’s also a short walk from Upper Holloway Overground.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub is renowned for its warm and inviting atmosphere, characterised by a U-shaped room with bare boards and bench seating. It’s a place where the ambiance is enriched by its history and a touch of Irish charm. The interior features modernish wood panelling and floor, along with Victorian tiling and mirrors. It’s a space where locals and visitors alike can relax and enjoy themselves.
What’s On Offer
- Delightful Beer Selection: Mother Red Cap is particularly known for its excellent beer selection. Patrons can enjoy a variety of drinks in a friendly setting.
- Entertainment: The pub also provides live performances, adding to its unique and charming atmosphere. It’s a great spot for experiencing an authentic London pub vibe.
- Live Sports: The pub is equipped with amenities for watching sports, making it a favorite spot for sports enthusiasts.
- Social Games: Additionally, it offers facilities like a pool table and darts, catering to those who enjoy pub games. This adds a layer of fun and engagement to the visitor experience.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 2 PM–12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM–12 AM
- Sunday: 12–11 PM
Mother Red Cap is as a destination that blends a classic pub atmosphere with the vibrancy of London’s pub culture. Whether it’s for a casual drink, a sports night, or simply to enjoy the ambience, Mother Red Cap offers a memorable experience for its visitors.
Owl & Hitchhiker
Address: 471 Holloway Rd, Archway, London N7 6LE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Owl & Hitchhiker is situated on Holloway Road between Archway and Highbury & Islington, offering easy access from Upper Holloway Station.
- What’s the Vibe? This pub is known for its quirky and unique atmosphere, drawing inspiration from Edward Lear and Douglas Adams, famous residents of the area. The interior features wall murals, carved owls, and futuristic elements. It’s described as having a nostalgic touch with elements like loudspeakers and tape decks, creating a vibe akin to a teenage bedroom or a parallel universe. The Owl & Hitchhiker is praised for its eclectic and enjoyable atmosphere, with an array of pinball machines and an owl decoration that adds an eccentric touch to the place.
What’s On Offer
- Authentic Caribbean Cuisine and Pub Classics: The menu includes a mix of Caribbean specialties and pub classics, offering dishes like curry goat and jerk chicken wrap. The venue is also known for its vegan-friendly options and a selection of craft beers and real ales, focusing on local London breweries.
- Events and Activities: The Owl & Hitchhiker hosts a variety of events and activities, including a pub quiz on Tuesdays, open mic and life drawing sessions on Wednesdays, comedy nights on Thursdays, and DJs on Fridays and Saturdays. Additionally, the pub is equipped with retro arcade games, offering a fun and engaging environment for visitors.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Tuesday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Wednesday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
Owl & Hitchhiker offers a distinctive blend of a fun atmosphere, diverse menu, and engaging events, making it a noteworthy destination in North London.
The Florin
Address: 563 Holloway Rd, Archway, London N19 4DQ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Florin is situated in the Archway region of London, a bustling and vibrant area. Its location is notable for its easy access, being just a short walk (approximately 0.09 miles) from Upper Holloway Station.
- What’s the Vibe? This stand-alone pub offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere. It’s a decent-sized establishment featuring a carpeted, square-shaped main room with comfortable bench seating. Central to its appeal is a pool table, adding a casual and engaging element to the venue. The pub is known for its lively environment, particularly during sports events, with live TV sports being a regular feature.
What’s On Offer
- Cosy Ambiance and Entertainment: The Florin is renowned for its warm and welcoming ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening. It’s a traditional Irish pub that becomes particularly lively on St. Patrick’s Day, offering an authentic experience with great beers and a convivial atmosphere.
- Live Music and Sports: The pub hosts live music, enhancing its vibrant atmosphere. It’s also a go-to place for sports enthusiasts, thanks to the live TV sports broadcasts. Whether it’s rugby, horse racing, or other major sporting events, The Florin provides a communal space for sports viewing.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? It opens from 11:00 AM to 23:00 PM from Monday to Thursday, extends its closing time to 01:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and operates from 12:00 PM to 01:00 AM on Sundays.
This pub stands out for its combination of a traditional pub feel, community spirit, and lively entertainment options. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet evening in a cosy setting or seeking a more vibrant atmosphere with live music and sports, The Florin caters to a diverse range of preferences.
The Crown
Address: 622 Holloway Rd, Archway, London N19 3PA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Crown is situated in Archway, London.
- What’s the Vibe? This venue maintains a warm and local pub atmosphere. It features traditional furnishings, red curtains, and carpeting, contributing to a cosy and inviting environment. The pub is described as an attractive Victorian corner pub, highlighting its historical charm.
What’s On Offer
- Guinness Quality Accredited: The Crown is renowned for serving some of the best Guinness in North London, a distinction that adds to its charm and appeal.
- Sports Viewing and Traditional Games: The pub is equipped with Sky TV, providing patrons with the opportunity to watch various sports. Additionally, it offers traditional pub games like darts, creating an engaging and lively atmosphere.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Crown is open from Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM the next day, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
The Crown in Archway is a classic local pub known for its quality Guinness, traditional pub atmosphere, and sports viewing facilities. Its traditional decor and warm feel make it a go-to spot for those seeking a cosy pub experience in North London.
Big Red
Address: 385 Holloway Rd, London N7 0RY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Big Red is conveniently located 1.6 miles from King’s Cross, making it accessible for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The bar is known for its rock’n’roll vibe, characterized by its dark and slightly grimy feel, decorated with American décor like license plates on the walls. It offers a relaxed, atmospheric environment with various rock music from the jukebox, contributing to its distinctive charm.
What’s On Offer
- Food and Drinks: Big Red offers a selection of beers and drinks, including the Big Red Pilsner and East Coast IPA. The food menu, highlighted by items like spicy wings and ribs, complements the bar’s atmosphere. The ribs, in particular, are noted for their exceptional taste.
- Live Music and Events: The bar regularly hosts live bands, adding to its rock-centric ambiance. It’s also known for occasional events like chili eating competitions, making it a dynamic and engaging venue.
- Rock’n’Roll Vibe: Big Red’s atmosphere is further enriched by its diverse crowd, which includes students, rock enthusiasts, and a mix of various other visitors, all blending in harmoniously. The bar’s decor, featuring rock and film paraphernalia, adds to its unique character. It’s an establishment that welcomes all, regardless of their style, as long as they come with a good attitude. The venue is not only a favorite among the locals but is also recommended for those seeking a slice of London’s rock culture.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? Mon/Tues: 3pm – 12am, Wed/Thur: 3pm – 1am, Fri: 3pm – 2:30am, Sat: 12pm – 2:30am, Sun: 12pm – 12am.
Big Red offers a distinctive experience in London’s bar scene, marked by its authentic rock atmosphere, varied drink and food options, and regular live music events. Its welcoming vibe and eclectic crowd make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a genuine rock bar experience in London.
Ready to Visit?
Upper Holloway, a vibrant area near the Upper Holloway Overground station, is a treasure trove for bar enthusiasts. It offers a diverse range of drinking spots, from traditional pubs filled with character to modern bars serving inventive cocktails. Notable mentions include the Mother Red Cap, a corner pub near Archway tube station, beloved for its delightful beer selection and exotic atmosphere, and the Owl & Hitchhiker, known for its creative themes and engaging environment. Whether you seek a quiet pint, an exciting night out, or a relaxed evening, Upper Holloway’s bars ensure an unforgettable experience in one of London’s coolest hangouts.
Share the Love
Why not try one of these unique bars in Upper Holloway and immerse yourself in the local scene? Whether you choose the exotic charm of Mother Red Cap or the creative ambiance of Owl & Hitchhiker, you’re guaranteed a memorable time. Share this article with your friends, and don’t forget to leave a review of your experience. Your next great night out awaits!