This homely pub set in Camden is far away from the confusion and bustling atmosphere of the area: if anything, it’s a tad too quiet.

The Venue
Constructed as a U-shaped room around a large square bar, Liberties is an all-wood environment with large windows on two sides, lots of plants, a couple of couches, and a cozy fireplace in operation during the winter. From the outside it looks like a glamorous venue but once seated its unpretentious nature becomes evident. While bright during the day, after sundown it becomes fairly dark, especially at the back. Fit for conversations, it is not a particularly intimate venue. However, it delivers a comfortable environment perfect for an afternoon beer plus snack and the private function area upstairs caters well for small groups.

The Atmosphere
Liberties can be bustling, but even during its most crowded moments it is not a loud place. It’s popular with an adult crowd of locals not fitting in with the usual excesses Camden is known for: it would not be surprising to find people in for a coffee rather than a beer, given the shining espresso machine. Slow paced in the drinking but quick with the service, you’ll only wish the bar staff would smile a bit more. Overall, a regular pub atmosphere is what you get: no less, no more.

The Drink
Everything is pretty normal on the drinks menu. A handful of reds and as many whites all picked from different countries, plus the usual rose and Champagne, make up the wine selection. Prices are affordable with small glasses between £3 and £4 and bottles a bargain in the £11-£15 range. Standard spirits are just as cheap at £2 range. The only part of the menu that’s out of the ordinary is the selection of beers. Do not imagine a huge choice or an organised menu (that would seem too much for the quiet folks at Liberties), just look around carefully before ordering a draught or bottle since there are some exotic names available. What about a German Franziskaner Weissbier, a Kopparberg pear cider from Sweden, a Czech Staropramen or others like Pilsener Urquell, Amstel, Asahi, Budvar, Leffe Brune, Purity Pure Gold or Grolsch for a change? All available for around £4.

The Food
The menu is international: while traditional pub staples like bangers and mash appear, you can also find meze plates, nachos and even posh-sounding dishes demonstrating some effort in the selection. The most interesting options belong to the ethnic variety: the coconut breaded butterfly prawns, the wild mushroom and sage risotto and the warm butternut squash and bacon salad are particularly attractive and it’s a real mystery why, despite the quite affordable prices, food does not seem popular with the regulars. A starter or snack will set you back about £4, while mains are prices between £7 and £10.

The Last Word
Liberties is an honest, no frills pub: while not really worth a dedicated trip, it’s still good for a pint in a typical but quiet environment.

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