Southampton Arms - Kentish Town - Pub Reviews

We made our way up Highgate Road to the Southampton Arms – a no-frills haven where hand-pulled ales and craft ciders flow freely under warm, wooden beams. With no TV screens or flashy distractions, it’s a place where conversation flows as easily as the drinks, and the simple pleasure of a hot pork roll is enough to keep you coming back.

Name: Southampton Arms

Location: 139 Highgate Road, Kentish Town, London NW5 1LE

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: No

Food on Offer:

The food menu is simple yet effective, focusing on classic bar snacks like pork pies, sausage rolls, and Scotch eggs. The hot pork roll is a customer favourite, praised for its hearty flavour and satisfying portion size.

Beers on Tap:

The pub boasts eight hand-pulled ales and ciders, with a rotating selection from independent breweries. Patrons can expect a mix of styles, from hoppy IPAs to traditional bitters and craft ciders.

Price Range:

££ (Moderate prices, with drinks and snacks offering good value for money).

Customer Service:

Customer reviews frequently highlight the friendly and knowledgeable bar staff, who are happy to recommend beers and ciders. The laid-back, no-fuss service complements the pub’s ethos of simplicity and quality.

Events & Special Nights:

The pub occasionally hosts live music and a popular Monday night quiz. No reservations are taken, fostering a casual, walk-in-friendly atmosphere.

In-Depth Review:

Walking into the Southampton Arms feels like stepping into a time capsule. This ale and cider house, nestled in Kentish Town, is a rare gem dedicated exclusively to serving independent ales and ciders. The pub's aesthetic is delightfully old-school, with wooden benches, a fireplace, and a bar lined with hand-pulled taps. There's a deliberate absence of modern distractions - no TV screens or loud music - allowing the atmosphere to centre on conversation and quality drinks.

The clientele is as eclectic as the pub's offerings, drawing in a mix of locals, ale enthusiasts, and curious visitors. It's not uncommon to find a group of students huddled over a pint next to an older couple reminiscing about the area’s history. The unpretentious vibe, combined with the rustic interior, creates a warm and inviting space that feels instantly familiar.

Accessibility might be a challenge for some, with limited wheelchair access, but the pub makes up for it with its dog-friendly policy and a small courtyard garden for those looking to enjoy their drink al fresco. The lack of parking encourages visitors to arrive on foot or by public transport, contributing to a more local, community-focused feel.

Food at the Southampton Arms is minimalist but well-executed. The hot pork rolls, in particular, are a standout, providing the perfect accompaniment to a pint of ale. The decision to keep the menu simple aligns with the pub’s broader philosophy of focusing on what they do best: serving top-quality drinks. Prices are reasonable, especially given the calibre of ales and ciders on offer.

One of the pub’s few downsides is its popularity, which can lead to a packed house, especially on weekends. Seating is limited and can be a bit uncomfortable, but if you're here for the beer—as most people are—you won't mind standing.

The Southampton Arms is not just a pub; it's an experience. For those who appreciate well-crafted ales, a sense of community, and a touch of nostalgia, it’s a must-visit. It’s a reminder that sometimes, keeping things simple is the key to excellence.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team