Guide to the best pubs in Islington

The Tamil Prince is a cosy corner pub that showcases South Asian cuisine in an area where such flavours are somewhat sparse. The food here is undoubtedly a highlight, with the pub garnering praise for its concise menu of Indian dishes such as onion bhaji, butter chicken masala and the crispy rotis – the folks behind the pub trained at the famed Roti King, so the rotis are especially worth trying. The vibes and the drinks are both on point as well, with the Tamil Prince a lively local joint with a top-notch eponymous cocktail in addition to other tipples.

Inspired by and devoted to the acclaimed works of Douglas Adams and Edward Lear, The Owl & Hitchhiker is a quirky pub dominated by a giant wooden owl and a sense of rambunctious fun. Decorated by fairy lights and garlands, the pub features a collection of second-hand furniture, a ping-pong table, and a private upstairs area. There are local craft beers on tap, accompanied by wines, cocktails, spirits and other drinks, while Caribbean specialities such as jerk chicken burgers and salt fish puffs make keep the hunger pangs away.

This contemporary country-style pub in Islington sources all of its brews and drinks as locally as possible. You can pop in just for a pint, or stay awhile and indulge in the rustic Italian fare prepared by the current kitchen resident, Tiella. Tiella is run by the former sous-chef at Sager + Wilde, and serves traditional dishes including hand-rolled pastas and luscious braised meats. 

The Oak & Pastor has everything one might be looking for in a pub – the obligatory array of ales and beers on tap, wines, spirits and other drinks, a vibrant, sociable atmosphere, all the major matches shown on a big screen, tasty snacks to keep you going, a log fire and even some outside seating. A favourite of Archway locals, this traditional neighbourhood boozer is furnished with reclaimed church furniture, adding to the cosiness.

The Albion's stock rises along with the outside temperatures, thanks to its splendid garden beneath drooping wisterias. The pub has plenty to offer throughout the year, however, with a beautiful Georgian interior, large windows for views of the garden, and an all-day menu revolving around seasonality and tradition. Expect elevated takes on classic pub fare, along with sizeable sharers such as a whole suckling pig on the all-day menu, accompanied by fine wines, draught beers and more.

Plaquemine Lock might seem like just another classic pub on the outside, but get ready for a twist once you walk inside. There's a pair of large, colourful murals providing a vibrant backdrop to the place, and all sorts of Louisiana-inspired food such as po' boy sandwiches, gumbos and Cajun cracklings on the menu. The canal-side pub also regularly hosts live jazz, including during its weekend brunches.

A respected name on the local craft beer circuit, the Earl of Essex isn't just committed to showcasing a changing assortment of quality local and international brews, it also highlights a specific subsection of those – sour beers. Apart from the drinks that stray off the beaten path, the pub is a pleasingly traditional establishment with classic pub grub and a verdant beer garden in the back.

Across several bright floors with outdoor balconies, The Narrowboat offers canal-side relaxation that's tailor-made for chasing away hangovers, what with a dedicated Bloody Mary menu. This popular Islington pub serves craft beers, fine wines and other drinks in addition to the aforementioned cocktails, as well as offering contemporary takes on traditional British pub grub, weekday brunch options and a Sunday roast.

Styled after London's old gin palaces, The Island Queen is an unpretentious, comfortable and welcoming pub that's full of character. You can relax in the traditional setting with the help of a varied drinks selection, ranging from cask ales and ciders to wines, cocktails and softs, or grab a bite to eat off the seasonal menu. You'll find all the classics there, for example burgers, schnitzels and steaks, all made from the finest ingredients.

The Three Johns is a popular drinking establishment in Angel with a cool contemporary atmosphere thanks to exposed brick walls, dark banquette seating and an ornate ceiling. Championing craft brewing with a changing array of craft beers on tap, accompanied by classic lagers, fine wines, cocktails and other drinks, the pub also serves award-winning pizzas. If you need a breather, you can also relax in the outdoor area. 

The Duke of Cambridge is a sustainability-minded, responsible gastropub in all aspects, with not just the food but also the drink sourced according to high environmental standards. The oft-changing menu adds international flair to British cuisine, with wine pairings available as well. Special seasonally-inspired cocktails and organic beers are served as well. Meanwhile, the simple interior with scuffed wooden floors and furniture beneath a reflective ceiling keeps the focus on the food, drinks and general good times.

The Eagle Farringdon launched in 1991 on the edge of Islington and is regarded as the birthplace of the contemporary gastropub scene in the capital. The guiding principles today remain the same as all those decades ago – the same skills and ingredients that you can usually find at the city's best restaurants, served at a more accessible level. While the daily lunch and dinner menus might travel around the Mediterranean, the drinks list never forgets that this is, after all, a pub, and includes craft beers from London, fine wines by the glass and more.

Established back when Islington was a village on the outskirts of London, with the surrounding area used to raise livestock, The Pig and Butcher pub keeps those traditions alive by sourcing rare meats and butchering the carcasses on site. The resulting daily menu is slanted towards meaty dishes, though pescatarian and vegetarian options are offered as well. The simply furnished pub also provides an unpretentious setting for sampling craft beers and wines by small, independent producers.

With a beautiful rooftop terrace that'll have you feeling like the king of your castle as you peer down at the street, this Islington pub is very aptly named. The refurbished establishment offers seasonal British pub fare, including a traditional roast dinner on Sundays, accompanied by local beers, cocktails, fine wines and all sorts of other tipples. It's a dog-friendly place, and it also shows major sports events across multiple screens – including outdoors on the terrace.

This Islington boozer and live music venue finds its hospitality inspirations across the pond, with a dash of earthy Kentucky charm permeating the premises. The Lexington is fitted with sofas that are perfect for lounging about with one of the many American craft beers or bourbons in hand. Upstairs, you'll find a concert room that hosts a varied line-up of up-and-comers and established names.

Boasting lavish decor, with the walls and bar covered in intricate tiles, a carved ceiling and statues on plinths behind the bar, this lively pub in Angel offers a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere for drinks and a snack. The events programme is packed with everything from DJ nights and live music to karaoke, pub quizzes, live sports and other entertainment, ensuring a fun night.

Set just off Holloway Road, The Swimmer at the Grafton Arms has a memorable name, an authentic look, and a friendly atmosphere. The narrow main bar has a traditional style and there's a pavement terrace too. Varied drinks are served, including a range of gins, and there's classic pub food too.

The Angelic is a smart pub that's great for drinking and dining. This venue has an airy feel and covers several floors. A varied choice of drinks is available, including cocktails. Foodies will enjoy it here with several menus to choose from. Go for snacks, a hearty main, or a traditional Sunday roast.

Only a short way from Finsbury Park, The World's End is a modern pub with a bustling atmosphere and distinctive wallpaper with a fish pattern. Relax on a sofa, enjoy live sport or music, or play foosball. A full range of drinks and contemporary pub grub are available, including Sunday roasts.

Down the road from Finsbury Park you'll see The Bedford Tavern, a low-key local pub that specialises in craft beer. It's low-lit, weathered, and often gets busy, especially on match days being so close to Emirates Stadium. Changing food menus are available thanks to rotating kitchen residencies. The atmosphere here is warm and friendly.

Easily accessible from Angel station, The Islington Town House is a spacious and eclectic pub set across several floors. Each area has its own distinct vibe. At this friendly venue you can sample a broad array of drinks. Modern pub food is served as well. This pub shows live sport and sometimes has live music acts performing.

Across the road from Highbury & Islington station there's The Hen & Chickens Theatre Pub. This elegant drinking spot has a timeless and colourful interior and also houses an intimate fringe theatre upstairs. A varied choice of drinks are served including craft beer and cask ales. There are also some pavement tables for warmer weather.