One of the few real boozers left on Upper Street, The Kings Head is a solid, traditional pub serving ale and beer to discerning Islington drinkers, with free live music every night and a 120-seat theatre at the back.

The Venue
You can’t miss The Kings Head as you get about halfway along Upper Street. Marble pillars, round bay windows and the traditional signage indicate that very little has changed since this Nineteenth Century pub was established. And this is a large part of the pub's charm; it has not been modernised or modified and retains many of its original Victorian features, including the huge, ornate Victorian till, which is still use.

The pavement outside includes some seating, and as you walk through the main entrance the bar is the focal point, standing at the centre of the room. Sparse seating comprises upright chairs and low leather sofas, with fresh flowers on every table. Huge over-mantle mirrors on the left and right give the space more depth, and the dark wooden floorboards introduce you to the theatrical theme that dominates the entire venue.

The Atmosphere
The Kings Head is definitely has the feel of a theatre pub: huge stage lights hang from bars on the ceiling; fading, threadbare velvet theatre seats line the walls; a curtain is gathered above the bar; and the walls are covered with photos and posters of the theatre’s many productions since it was established in 1970.

During the day you find people drinking at The Kings Head before or after shows, literary North London types settling down for a pint and a read, and shoppers stopping off for refreshment. In the evenings, the place transforms into a busy live music venue with punters getting down to anything from jazz bands and rock to folk.

The Drink
The space behind the bar is quite small, offering the standard spirit selection, at least four good quality ales and a couple of lagers on draught and a small selection of wines, which are displayed on a blackboard.

The Last Word
Free live music with an interesting crowd in a proper pub with history - The Kings Head is the perfect antidote to the bars with style but no substance.

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