Towards the Highbury and Islington end of Upper Street is this no-holds-barred rock venue where you could have seen Madness play a live gig in 1980 for an unbelievable £3.

The Venue
Perched on the corner joining Islington Park Street with Upper Street is this little tribute to punk rock. Stooped in history and with the words Hope and Anchor sprawled across the sign outside as if Johnny Rotten himself had a hand in the artistry, the attitude is immediately evident.

Inside, it’s one of those average sized rock venues that gets really cramped when you shove a band in the corner. The floor space around the bar is ample enough for those that want to stand whilst those that would rather perch can either rest on one of the benches that have been upholstered with green leather or one of the comfortable leather stools.

Hope and Anchor is a dark and dingy venue and so it should be - this is no namby-pamby bar. This is all about drums and guitars. Speaking of which, two tasty black and white Stratocaster electric guitars, one crossed over the other forming an X, hang on the wall above the bar representing all things rock ‘n’ roll. Every wall is covered in posters of past and future live acts and there are loads of flyers next to the retro pinball and arcade machines offering further info on future gigs and band appearances. Those in need of a game of pool can head up to the first floor where they’ll also stumble upon an old jukebox.

The Atmosphere
Don’t expect any cheesy smiles to make you feel welcome here. Nor can you expect any macho egos. What you do get is a mutual respect for the guitar and all things that orbit it. If you want to start a conversation with someone you’d do best to pick a topic relating to something with a body, neck, six strings and a Floyd Rose whammy bar. The barman is much friendlier than he looks and very informative.

Massaging your ears as you sit on your stool are the graceful sounds of the Stone Roses and Chilli Peppers as well as some lesser known groups. A bizarre light hidden under the bar gives the air a hellish red glow turning the barman into Tenacious D’s interpretation of Satan whenever he walks through it.

Live music plays seven days a week so it gets very full very quickly. Probably best to get in early if you want to watch the band. Prices lie around the £5 and £6 mark.

The Drink
At a venue such as the Hope and Anchor it’s not about the drink, it’s about the music. You’ll find Stella, Kronenberg, Carling, Guinness Fosters, Strongbow, Green King IPA and Old Speckled Hen and a collection of the usual spirits behind the bar.

The Last Word
Hope and Anchor is full to the rafters with personality. It’s by no means a smart bar, it’s punk and you’ll either love it or hate it.

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