Of the many greater London pubs, the Auld Shillelagh stands out as a traditional Irish pub without any of the pretences and fakery of pubs pretending to be “Irish”.

It is located in a very narrow little building but when you enter, you see it goes on for quite a ways. In fact, they have a beer garden out back where they sometimes barbeque as well.

The interior of the pub has high cambered ceilings that feel very authentic. It has lots of dark panelling and a lovely cosy pub feel, and the staff are witty and welcoming; you won’t feel like a stranger here for long.

Do you like Guinness? This pub pulls the best pint of Guinness in the city, taking the time to let it settle properly in the glass and delivering it to your table with a smile and a kind word.

There is always an interesting mix of people here, a real cross-section of the Stoke Newington area. Older Irishmen rub elbows with hip young trendy types here, and everyone revels in the friendly atmosphere. It is a nice place to come and watch sports, all-Ireland Gaelic football is especially popular with the crowds here.

Out in the garden, you might be lucky enough to find some traditional Irish music being played, as well.

The Auld Shillelagh has been hosting quite a few interesting events at the pub. The Bowie Bar has proved extremely popular, a tribute to the Thin White Duke with his music playing all night and a Bowie Bar-b-q going on in the garden.

The Sons of Lee Marvin highlights music inspired by drink and heartbreak, playing songs from artists like Johnny Cash, Edith Piaf, Tom Waits, and Marianne Faithfull.

The Ska Bar plays on alternate Sundays in the summer, playing a wide variety of classic tunes from original ska bands and serving up Jerk chicken, rice and peas, and other Jamaican fare in the back garden.

Greater London pubs are numerous, but the Auld Shillelagh is the best Irish pub in the area.

Visiting Auld Shillelagh

105 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 0UD

Telephone: 020 7249 5951

Email info@theauldshillelagh.com

Opening Times

Mon to Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12noon-10.30pm

Photo courtesy: Ewan-M

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