King Charles I in Islington

Ah, King Charles I, what a delightful little find in the heart of London! I've got to say, it's one of those pubs that just warms your cockles from the moment you step inside. The folks behind it have done a stellar job keeping it community-owned and true to its roots, especially in an area that's gentrifying faster than you can say 'pint please'. The real ales are top-notch, and at prices that won't leave you skint, it's ideal for sinking a few with friends while soaking up that welcoming, inclusive atmosphere – they're proudly LGBTQIA+ friendly, which makes it feel all the more special. Events like the quiz nights and live music add a bit of spontaneous fun, and the staff are just brilliant, always up for a laugh. On the flip side, it's a shame they don't do food in-house; you'll need to grab takeaways from nearby, which isn't the end of the world but can interrupt the flow. And while it's blissfully quiet compared to the corporate bars nearby, that might not suit if you're in the mood for a packed house. Overall, it's a cracking spot for a proper pub experience – I'd definitely recommend popping in for a drink and seeing what all the fuss is about, as long as you're up for that authentic, no-frills charm.