THE FINSBURY

My new local? This is certainly the best pub I’ve found in the Manor House area so far, and a recent re-vamp seems to have worked wonders in turning it into a cool hangout that’s a magnet for local bands and beer-lovers alike.

The interior has a slightly crumbling shabby chic look about it, with a large old-style bar surrounded by seating on three sides and a small stage area on the other, which was occupied by a band rehearsing for an upcoming gig. It was pretty well-attended and lively even on a Tuesday night, with lots of people also sitting on the outside decking – a great option on a hot evening.

The selection of drinks is a bit limited but all are well-priced, making it a fairly cheap bar. I will be back, possibly on a Sunday daytime when there are barbecue lunches made fresh in the front garden.

ETA this pub is NOT IN STOKE NEWINGTON! it should be Manor House. We have precious little in the way of attractions – please don’t give this rather good one to those greedy Stokey bods.

This is a really nice pub, just a stones throw from Manor House station and the back of Finsbury park. It had a refurb in 2010 and since then it has become one of the coolest hangouts in North London. It has become a great artist venue because every night there is something taking place on the big, tall stage at the back of the bar. Open Mic music on Thursday, Salsa Dancing on Friday along with DJ nights both Friday and Sat that are the busiest night out for miles around. Great DJs and vibe. Sundays there is a BBQ in summer and Monday night is film night. On Wednesday they do the ROFL and LOL Comedy Club, which is a really warm, friendly room for up and coming comedy performers. They have people off the TV, but some great circuit pros and open mic comedians, but best of all regardless of the day all the events are free entry.

Lets talk beers. Stella, Staropramen, Guinness, London Pride are on tap and that is enough to make me happy. although the cocktails are pretty tasty as they are served without pretentiousness. Actually they take cards too, which is great because there isnt a free cash machine for about 1km, so that is a masterstroke in persuading you in one for the road. If you pass this place you notice how there is lots of people sat outside and you should join them on a hot summers day or a dark winter evening when they show the projections of The Digital gallery – an in-house art scheme changed monthly.

The furnishings inside are pretty comfy with lots big chairs, sofas, low wooden coffee tables and interesting wallpapers leave a rich feel to this place. Sadly no food (except for the weekly BBQ) but worth a visit for one of the events on London’s highest stage (maybe), just don’t forget to take in the movie posters around the ceiling!

Nice clean pub,and a welcome from the staff which was nice,double spirits 3.50 with coke cant grumble.gents toilet was really clean, and they have a massive screen for sky sports but its at the back of this pub which means I didnt have to watch it,not a sporty person
no pool table which makes it more attractive to me,all in all a nice bar alas no real ales,