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.
Last updated on 17th January 2023
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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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.
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.
If you're on the hunt for trendy bars in North London, Camden has got you covered. Decked out from head to toe in opulent furnishings and gold accents, this beauty is not to be missed. Head on over for a cracking selection of cocktails that'll blow your socks off.
With a stunning covered terrace, bright and airy bar area and gorgeous lowlit dining room, The Chapel Bar is ticking all of our Friday night boxes. The Penton Street spot is also a popular private hire option, with space to accommodate groups of up to 150 people.
Located in the heart of Camden, All About Eve is a North London haunt worth visiting. Be sure to quaff some of the tastiest cocktails (or try out the happy hour between Sunday and Thursday), alongside enjoying some top-notch weekly comedy nights and cabaret shows.
One of the best bars for beer in North London, Little Creatures Brewing is perched on the edge of Regent's Canal and is a must-visit for any keen hopheads. Both a fully functioning brewery and bright and airy taproom, this place's brews are just about as fresh as they come.
This tiki paradise in the heart of Angel is the perfect retreat for when life gets just a little too hectic. Sip on cocktails and revel in the tropical decor as you sample rums from across the globe. And upstairs? You'll be able to blend rum and learn the art of tasting at one of Laki Kane's interactive masterclasses.
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.
The Camden branch of the infamous BYOC encourages you to sit back and relax while an experienced bartender whips you up some carefully-made concoctions, created specifically to suit your tastes. All you need to come armed with? A bottle of your favourite spirit.
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.
This buzzing Islington bar promises weekend antics galore. With fruity cocktails, generous happy hours deals and DJ taking to the decks 'til late, this Latin party spot is perfect for a group night out in North London.
Found at the beating heart of Islington's party scene, this chic speakeasy is known for its eclectic cocktail offerings. The ideal venue for a group night out in North London, the drink menu includes quirky sharing specials, served out of giant Lego heads and sand buckets.
One of the best bars in North London, The Skinny Kitchen Islington has plenty to offer including gorgeous cocktails and interiors to match. Settle into their plush blue booths as you tip back a margarita or espresso martini while grabbing a few nibbles.
When it comes to rooftop bars in North London, Near & Far Camden is a guaranteed winner. During the summer months this watering hole is decked out with an outdoor cinema screen, while winter sees boozy brunches and late-night bashes galore.
If you're on the lookout for North London cocktail bars, this West Hampstead gem should be on your list. Upstairs is Heads; the bright space boasting light and long cocktails, while downstairs you'll find Tails, where bolder picks reign supreme. There's even a garden and outdoor area for those warmer days.
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.
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 Da's poutine and hearty stew, this place promises a night to remember.
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.
The first London branch of BrewDog, this Camden bar is a favourite for those looking for a superb range of craft beers and mouthwatering burgers. The decor is minimalist yet cool, perfect for a post-work drinking session.
North London's only vampire-themed haunt, Lost Souls Pizza is a venue like no other. The Mornington Crescent bar serves frozen margarita slushies and absinthe cocktails alongside a menu of charcoal-based pizzas.
This quirky Camden bar is ideal if you're looking for experimental food and quaffable cocktails. Designed with Insta-worthy content in mind, the pastel-coloured venue is decked out with pretty flower walls, novelty props and flashing neon lights.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Home to some of Essex Road's most tantalising interiors, this blue-hued Islington bar serves a range of cocktails inspired by botanicals. And on the weekend? Expect tasty brunch dishes and plates piled high with steaming roasts, complete with golden tatties and fluffy Yorkshire puds.
