27 Arlington Way, London EC1R 1UY

About This Pub

Oh, mate, let me tell you about The Harlequin – it's one of those pubs that just warms your cockles the moment you step inside. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, folks absolutely rave about the friendly staff who go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome, whether you're popping in for a quick pint or celebrating something special. The atmosphere is spot on too; it's got this cosy fireplace that's an absolute lifesaver on a frosty night, and that hidden garden out back is a proper delight when the sun's out – ideal for chatting away with mates without the hustle and bustle. The drinks are a highlight, with a brilliant selection of beers and wines that's kept things traditional since 1848, and don't even get me started on the cheeseboard; it's a simple pleasure that pairs brilliantly with a cold one. On the flip side, though, it's a shame it's not open earlier or on Sundays, as that might cramp your style if you're after a midday session or a relaxed weekend tipple. And being in a quieter spot, it can get a bit cosy when it's busy, plus those moderate prices might add up if you're out for the evening. All in all, it's a solid choice for anyone in the area looking for a genuine, unpretentious spot to relax – I'd say give it a go if you're nearby, but just plan around those opening hours to avoid disappointment.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The staff are absolutely lovely and make you feel right at home, always going the extra mile to ensure a great visit.
  • It's got that warm, relaxed atmosphere with a cosy fireplace for chilly evenings and a beautiful hidden garden that's perfect for sunny days.
  • The beer selection is spot on, with a fantastic range of ales, lagers, and even some excellent wines – it's been a proper beer shop since 1848!
  • Being a free house means they offer great variety without being tied to one brewery, and the cheeseboard is a real treat for a quick bite.
  • Its location near Sadler's Wells Theatre and Angel tube makes it an ideal spot for a pre-show pint or a quiet escape after work.
Cons
  • It doesn't open until 4pm most days, which might not suit those looking for a lunchtime drink or an early start.
  • Being closed on Sundays and bank holidays could be a downside if you're planning a weekend outing.
  • As a smaller, traditional pub on a backstreet, it might feel a bit snug during busier times, so space could be limited if you're with a larger group.
  • While the prices are moderate, some might find them a tad steep for everyday drinks, especially in central London.

Contact Information

27 Arlington Way, London EC1R 1UY
+442078331129
Pub
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday16:00 - 00:00
Tuesday16:00 - 00:00
Wednesday16:00 - 00:00
Thursday16:00 - 00:00
Friday16:00 - 01:30
Saturday (Today)16:00 - 01:30
SundayClosed

Location

Recent Reviews

I celebrated my birthday at The Harlequin in Angel and honestly couldn’t have picked a better spot. Everything was just perfect! The service was absolutely outstanding – a huge thank you to Tahnina and her lovely team for taking such great care of us throughout the evening. My guests were all raving about how charming and beautiful the venue was – everyone loved the warm, cozy atmosphere. It truly made the night feel extra special. Thank you, dear Harlequin team, for making my birthday unforgettable and for your incredible hospitality. I’ll be back soon!
KP
Karin Pointner
🚇 Angel 🍺 £6.50 Pravha The Harlequin is located on a quiet street at the back of Sadler’s Wells Theatre in Clerkenwell. The nearest Tube is Angel in Islington. Prior to becoming a pub, this terraced house was built in 1822 and was the former home to a baker and then a lithographer. In 1848 the house was converted to a beer shop and has remained a Free house ever since. Brian Reader, mastermind of the infamous Hatton Garden hole in the wall gang lived for a while with the landlady in the flat upstairs. This is cosy and intimate one bar pub that has a rustic and homely feel. The servery is located on the right hand side and is clad in beach washed panels. The decor consists of burnt orange walls with more panelling below, a bare boarded floor and some ornate chandeliers. There are some nice touches, like the fireplace, Sadlers Wells advertisements and the piano located at the back. Considering the size of the pub, there is ample seating plus plenty of stools huddled around the bar. At the rear of the pub is a Secret Garden which is covered in flora and fauna. The beer line up is good and included some craft ipa’s and cask ale. I decided on a Pravha, my pint was spot on, price point was above average. If you’re feeling peckish, there is a bar snacks menu consisting of Cheeseboards, Bastides Saucissons Secs and Pinchos. I arrived around 6pm for an afterwork pint on a Friday evening in April. The pub was fairly busy with local punters and a few visitors to the area. The atmosphere was convivial and relaxed with a soothing soundtrack playing in the background. The service was excellent, the team member who served me was welcoming and friendly. Visiting @theharlequin1848 has to be one of my most chilled and relaxing pub experiences ever. This pub environment is calming and seductive which makes it easy to settle into. I loved architecture and history, the beer choice was good, there are nice local pub vibes and the hospitality is on point. Maybe not one for the traditionalist but If you’re on a date on just want a chat with a mate, then this is the ideal spot. 📅 19th April 2024 More London Pub info @londonpubmap 🍻
LP
London Pub Map
My absolute favourite pub in Angel! This is a quiet haven to decompress and read after a stressful day at work, and a regular stop for me on the way home. It has a very warm, relaxed, and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is always exceptionally friendly and nice. It’s a nice and warm escape in the winter, and for hot summer days, they have a beautiful hidden garden in the back to seek refuge from direct sunlight and the scorching heat. Without doubt the loveliest place to spend an evening in the area (and arguably, in London)!
LB
Lars Bjørnbakk
A village community pub in old Clerkenwell. Established 1884 this narrow front terrace pub has a beautiful green tiled facade in front of a spacious, single room around a square centre bar. Gorgeous aged, original floor with cellar trap under a variety of low seats & plenty of tables. This well loved pub has modernised, pretty rustic wood cladding on the walls & bar to compliment from original floor through squared & harlequin windows to cladding ceiling. It's dressed down but features theatrical art & original centrepiece fireplace. An excellent beer selection from 20th century bar set near a well dressed sky light & a cute, backyard secret garden. Great tunes & no screens create a good, feel good vibe. There's an excellent quality about the care invested in making this pub a peaceful, destination of artistry & love.
AC
Alex Conkleton
One of the most wonderful, atmospheric and beautiful pubs in the area. Great staff and great beer, what's more to ask for? The team have kept this pub true to it's original form whilst ensuring it's clean and well looked after. The beer selection ranges from some great lagers to a few more hard to come by IPAs, including at the time of writing a Vedett Pilsner. We were really looked after by the pub staff and will be back again.
M
Matt

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