This Irish boozer has none of the complications of fancier Stoke Newington pubs, instead it settles for a simple atmosphere, unfussy drinks and good old-fashioned craic.

The Venue
The Auld Shillelagh seems diminutive at first but, once inside, the space stretches a fair distance towards the back, as if walls have been knocked down to create several open-plan living rooms. You will see patterned tiles, various fireplaces - one is very pretty – and wooden fixtures and fittings. It’s seen better days (especially the battered furniture) but it has atmosphere and a genuine air. At the very back of it all, there is even a sizeable beer garden: not exactly pretty as it is lined in concrete, it is nevertheless functional and it even has a sheltered area for smokers.

The Atmosphere
Auld Shillelagh has a wonderfully mixed crowd: older locals mix with younger punters, local creatives and art students in vintage garb. The mix works and adds to the good, relaxed vibe. The pub tends to be quite busy even during week nights and it gets extra-packed when there’s live Irish music (on Fridays and Saturdays). A DJ can also be found spinning at weekends and private barbecues can be organised in the beer garden.

The Drink
The Auld Shillelagh’s specialty is, predictably, Guinness. Many of the locals' swear it tastes better here than anywhere else in town. Prices are affordable at £3.10-£3.40 for draught pints and £3.20-£3.70 for bottles. The selection is run-of-the-mill - Stella, Budweiser, Becks and Courage Light Ale are the most interesting bottles. And they only serve three or four different bottles of wine (around £12.80 a bottle or £3.10 a glass). Additionally, single spirits with mixers go from £3.30 to £4. Auld Shillelagh is not bothered about providing an elaborate or refined drinking experience – it’s traditional, old school, and all the better for it.

The Last Word
A laid-back boozer that pulls young and old through its doors and, like all good Irish pubs, makes you feel like it’s very hard to leave.

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