North London is home to some of the coolest bars in the city. Often bypassed by tourists clambering to get to the capital's central hotspots, the northern neighbourhoods offer hubs of boozy activity from dusk 'til dawn. Whether you're after an effortlessly cool cocktail lounge or a lively independent boozer, the area spanning Hampstead, Acton, Islington and Camden is sure to deliver. Check out our recommendations for the best bars and pubs in North London here.
By day, Haylaz Brasserie & Tapas is a relaxed spot for breakfast or brunch. By night, it transforms into one of North London's most inviting bars. The atmosphere is all about Mediterranean warmth - soft lighting, great music, and a bar brimming with handcrafted cocktails and fine wines.
Whether you're stopping by for a few small plates, catching live music, or simply unwinding in the garden with a drink in hand, Haylaz is the place to be.
With so many incredible bars on Upper Street, Little Bat does a great job of standing out from the crowd. Owned by the brains behind Callooh Callay, the independent cocktail lounge serves bottomless brunch every weekend between 11am and 3pm.
Archives London is the coolest hangout for food, brews, and good times in Tottenham Hale. They've got a jam-packed lineup of events featuring live music, brain-teasing quiz nights, epic sports showdowns, and tantalizing deals on food and drinks. Plus, they've got a toasty beer garden, pool tables, dartboards, and even ping pong to keep the good times rolling all week long.
For the first distillery of it's kind, head down to Burnt Faith Brandy House to try a range of bespoke cocktails made using its home-brewed spirit. Try short and long drinks like a honey man daiquiri and a vestry apple sour to see why it's one of the best bars in North London.
Stepping inside Bobby Fitzpatrick feels like zooming back to the sexy 1970s. With Insta-worthy interiors at every corner and a mammoth seven-course brunch menu on offer, it's the stuff of Saturday dreams.
Islington Blend is a hidden gem in the heart of Islington, offering a blend of casual chic and high-end sophistication. With its contemporary decor, top-tier cocktails (£7 during happy hour), and extensive wine list, this bar is perfect for a night out with friends or a relaxed date night.
Whether you're in the mood for something new or enjoying a classic favourite, the bartenders at Islington Blend are dedicated to delivering a memorable experience.
Spruce up your boring trip to the boozer with a trip to Supermax in King's Cross. This cool basement haunt is touting a whole load of delicious drinks, 70s-inspired interiors and a selection of music spun by a live DJ that will get guests movin' and groovin'.
One of the best bars in North London, this Holloway Road spot is known for its offering of craft beers, tasty burgers, and mouthwatering vegan scran. And upstairs? There's a secret cocktail bar where live theatre and immersive events regularly take place.
Quirky, quaint and delightfully intriguing, Simmons is a great place for drinks in North London. Expect an extensive and innovative cocktail menu (containing some dessert-based treats), happy hour 'til 9pm and retro decor throughout.
Located right in the heart of Kings Cross, this mega bar brings you food, drinks and multiple floors of fun. Head here for after work drinks, a themed event at the weekend or chill out on the rooftop when the sun decides to come out.
Looking for a cool spot for a few cocktails or a late-night party with friends? Then head to The Venue N10, a sleek bar found in the affluent area of Muswell Hill. Hidden behind an unassuming door, this trendy space has a sleek speakeasy feel to it.
This spot is decked out in plush leather seating and customisable LED lighting, and you'll often find DJs playing via their state-of-the-art sound system. Plus, the bar is serving premium spirits, cocktails and more.
Located just a stone's throw from Finsbury Park station, Someday is a first-class North London joint. Whether you're heading in to enjoy Mexican plates and wallet-friendly margaritas or tasty slices from Ace Pizza, this venue is bound to hit the spot.
Searching for a top-notch bar in North London? Then be sure to check out the stunning modern British bar: Rotunda. This haunt not only offers beautiful canal-side views, but also has a fabulous food and drinks menu to keep guests satisfied.
Prepare to fall in love with this Angel watering hole, as Homeboy brings you all things Irish. Between the Guinness on tap, impressive cocktails and comfort food like beef & Guinness stew with homemade soda bread and garlic cheese fries, this place promises a night to remember.
One of the quirkiest bars in the area, Electric Shuffle King's Cross is the place to be for some friendly competition. They've got a range of high-tech, interactive shuffleboard tables, where up to 16 people at a time can play a variety of fun, multilayer minigames complete with automatic scoring.
The sleek, art deco-inspired bar is the perfect place to relax after your game, complete with sharing pizza paddles, small plates and creative cocktails. Plus, they host weekend brunches that offer unlimited pizza, a whole bottle of prosecco and an hour of gaming each.
Overlooking Regents Canal, Lockside is one of North London's best bars. With a delicious burger menu, craft beer selection and outdoor terrace, this watering hole is perfect for everything from drinks in the sun through to nights dancing to live DJs and more.
This Blues Kitchen is a buzzing live music venue in Camden. Head here for incredible swing and Motown performances as well as a mouthwatering menu of BBQ ribs, Po' Boy sandwiches and key lime pies, washed down with a range of craft beers and bespoke bourbons.
Mare Street Market brings something special to Kings Cross, with its open kitchen, casual dining vibe, and a mix of vintage and modern charm. Whether you're in the mood for brunch, a late-night hangout, or a private party, this place has got it all.
The laid-back yet energetic vibe makes it a perfect spot to enjoy delicious food, sip on creative cocktails, and soak in the lively market atmosphere.
BookBar is a hybrid bookshop and wine bar in Islington that's become a hotspot for London's literary crowd. More than just a place to browse shelves, it offers a social, welcoming space for readers to connect over wine, conversation, and curated fiction. Regular events include author Q&As, book launches, and themed book clubs, all designed to turn reading into a shared experience.
The vibe is cosy and inclusive, with comfy seating and shelves packed with thoughtful selections. Their 'Shelf Medicate' service recommends reads based on your mood - perfect for anyone needing a literary lift.
A gorgeous secret bar in North London, Happiness Forgets combines 1940s decor with a dreamy jazz soundtrack, creating the ultimate date night venue. Found in a hidden basement just off Hoxton Square, the slinky spot is sure to impress.
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A cracking North London wine bar, Humble Grape is a gorgeous venue for romantic date nights and drawn-out lunches. Whether you have a penchant for exotic sips or full-bodied reds, the list here has something to suit every taste and budget.
Founded by cocktail guru Tony Conigliaro, The Bar With No Name is a must-try if you're on the hunt for secret bars in North London. Championing Italian-style serves, this is the perfect haunt to woo a date or hang out with friends who have a taste for the finer things.
Original Sin provides you with chilled out vibes and cracking cocktails in the heart of Stoke Newington. The hidden basement bar fronts impeccable service and sultry interiors, making it more than easy to stay the whole night.
Looking for a waterside bar in North London? The Lighterman is a gorgeous Kings Cross bar, ideal for those long summer nights. Sip on spritzes as you watch canal boats float past before tucking into a feast of loaded flatbreads, topped with hot smoked salmon, creamy mushrooms or spicy Cotswold sausage.
