The Kings Head Pub in Highbury

126 Blackstock Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 2DR

About This Pub

Ah, The Kings Head – it's one of those gems in Finsbury Park that really captures the heart of what a proper London pub should be. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, folks absolutely love the authentic, no-frills atmosphere; it's like chatting with mates in your nan's living room, but with a pint in hand. The prices are spot on too – grabbing a Guinness for just £5 feels like a win, especially when everything else seems to be going up. It's particularly brilliant for catching an Arsenal game, with friendly bar staff and a lively crowd that makes you feel part of the gang. On the flip side, if you're after something a bit more polished or Instagram-worthy, it might not hit the mark, as it's all about that straightforward, traditional appeal. And without a website, it's a bit of a surprise what you'll find, but that's part of the charm for us pub enthusiasts. Overall, it's a solid choice for a relaxed evening, though it can get heaving at times, so plan accordingly if you're not keen on the crowds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

It's got that classic, traditional pub vibe that makes you feel right at home, like stepping back in time to a proper old-school London boozer.
The drinks are brilliantly affordable – think £5 for a pint of Estrella or Guinness, which is a rare treat these days, especially in this part of town.
The staff and locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, perfect for a chat or just soaking up the atmosphere while watching the footie.
It's a favourite among Arsenal fans, with comfy spots to catch the match and even a jukebox playing decent tunes, making it a great spot for a relaxed evening.

Cons

It might feel a bit outdated for those after something more modern or trendy, as it's all about that no-nonsense, old-school charm rather than fancy decor.
With no website or online presence to speak of, it's not the easiest to check out menus or events in advance, so you might just have to pop in and see for yourself.
Being a local favourite, it could get quite busy on match days or evenings, which might not suit everyone looking for a quiet pint.

Contact Information

126 Blackstock Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 2DR

+442073596350

Pub

Opens at 11:00

Opening Hours

Monday	11:00 - 00:00
Tuesday	11:00 - 00:00
Wednesday (Today)	11:00 - 00:00
Thursday	11:00 - 00:00
Friday	11:00 - 01:00
Saturday	11:00 - 01:00
Sunday	11:00 - 00:00

Location

Recent Reviews

🚇 Finsbury Park 🍺 £5.00 Estrella The King’s Head is located near the top end of Blackstock Road in Finsbury Park, North London. The nearest Tube is Finsbury Park. The King’s Head was built in 1851 and remodelled at some point in the 1930s. It has been a favourite among Arsenal fans since Arsenal Stadium opened in 1913. This is a traditionally decorated one-bar pub that has proper old-school charm about it. The servery is situated on the right-hand side and features ornate mouldings above the back bar. The decor consists of white walls with burgundy-painted woodwork, blue patterned banquettes with matching chairs, a dartboard, a fireplace, and a proper pub carpet. Around the walls are a few TVs, some retro Coke and Pepsi signs, brass-framed mirrors, and lots of Arsenal memorabilia. There are also a couple of fruit machines and a jukebox if you want to put some tunes on. At the rear of the pub is a tiny decked beer garden, along with some benches at the front. The beer lineup consists of a selection of well-known keg favourites. I decided on an Estrella — my pint was great, the price was reasonable at a fiver. This pub doesn’t serve food, but while we were there, some locals turned up with a huge pot of stew as it was St. Patrick’s Day. We arrived around 1 p.m. on an overcast Monday lunchtime in March. We were visiting as part of a St. Patrick’s Day crawl around Hackney, Highbury, and Holloway. The pub was quiet, with just one other local in attendance. The atmosphere was calm and relaxed. My brother and I enjoyed our pints and chatted about this lovely pub. I’ve visited this pub many times over the past 30 years, predominantly on my way to see The Arsenal. It’s much the same now as it was when I first came here—hardly changed at all. It’s great to see a pub like this endure and stay true to its roots. Long live The King’s Head. 📅 17th March 2025 More London pub info on socials @londonpubmap 🍻

London Pub Map

A refreshingly traditional pub. Very friendly. The drinks are cheaper than in any other pub in the area as well.

Peter Claydon

Last of the old school pubs in the area. This family used to run the Blackstock Tavern. When they go there will be no more. Make the most of if and avoid the poncy overpriced Woodbine and Bank of Friendship.

Sid

Time travel pub. Touch of Life on Mars.. With added bonus of old school prices. £5 Guinness, sorted. More for drinkers than hipsters. But all good natured.

Nik Kafka

Excellent pub that hasn't changed in years and the locals like it like that obviously. Barman was really friendly and we had great seats and space to watch the Arsenal match in comfort. Quite nice tunes were played earlier too on the jukebox. Di and would definitely return. Ah..good prices too! Makes a change from the rip off prices you get in London. A 10!

micky h