Ye Olde Mitre Barnet

Ah, Ye Olde Mitre—it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper British institution, tucked away on the High Street in Barnet with its roots stretching back to the 1600s. From what I've gathered chatting about it, most people absolutely love the place for its charming, vintage atmosphere; you can imagine Charles Dickens popping in for a tipple back in the day. The staff are a real highlight, always up for a laugh and quick to recommend a drink or dish, and the menu's spot on with hearty traditional food that's freshly made, including thoughtful options for different diets. That beer garden with its retractable roof is a winner too, especially on a sunny afternoon when you're out with the family or the dog in tow. It's versatile like that—perfect for a low-key evening or ramping up for a birthday bash in one of those cosy side areas. But, let's be straight, it's not all roses; a few have had gripes about the bathrooms being a bit neglected, which is a shame because it can spoil an otherwise lovely visit. And if you're heading there on a weekend, it fills up fast, so you might end up queueing or feeling a tad squished. Overall, though, I'd say it's worth a go if you're in the area—it's got that classic pub magic, as long as you keep expectations realistic and maybe check it out on a quieter day.