The Faltering Fullback

It’s pretty hard to find a decent spot around Finsbury Park for drinking in serene, green views alongside your pint. But down a quiet backstreet you’ll find this charming local boozer, drenched in ivy, which boasts a rather magical back garden with a many-tiered, boozy tree house. The inside space is multi-layered too, with a couple of bars, a large back room and a pool table. Sport is a passion here, so you can pick up a cue or watch the match on TV, but there’s also a well-stocked jukebox, a hotly contested weekly quiz and a wealth of ‘ceiling inspiration’ curios hanging up above, for quiet contemplation over a plate of Thai food. The wine list is perfectly drinkable, while the adequate beer selection is served by bar staff practised at unhurried hospitality.