Prince Albert has had several big changes in identity over the years - from the dull to the wacky - and is now a happily laid-back pub.

The Venue
Prince Albert has shrugged off its attempts to keep up with the Jones’s and has accepted that it is one of the few genuinely down-to-earth spots on Coldharbour Lane, a street that is now a haven for ‘trendy’ bars. The front is clean and simple with a bold sign and a small outdoor space set back from the pavement with a few tables and chairs gated off from the comings and goings of this colourful stretch of road. Inside is less interesting with little to set it apart from other traditional pubs (except for a space for a DJ – this is Brixton, after all) but there is a nice, if small, leafy beer garden out the back, which is a good spot to make the most of in warmer weather.

The Atmosphere
Coldharbour Lane used to be on the rough side, but like many places in and around this area of south London, young professionals are starting to edge in and push the original locals out. And yes, you get a lot of these guys in here. However, there is still a nice mix retained with some edgier Brixton locals, young guys and girls covered in piercings and Rastafarians all helping to enliven the otherwise borderline-dull space.

The Drink
This is – perhaps surprisingly – a Greene King pub and so you won’t find any ales other than their own. Luckily, they have some decent choices and you’ll find the likes of Ruddles and Wychwood on tap alongside some rather bog-standard draught lagers.

The Last Word
The Prince Albert has done a good job of evolving with the area, but it’s nice to see that it’s settled on more of a pub vibe now.

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