The Auld Shillelagh - Islington - Pub Reviews

From the outside, The Auld Shillelagh looks unassuming – a slim-fronted pub tucked amid the boutiques of Stoke Newington Church Street. Yet this modest Victorian façade conceals one of London’s most celebrated Irish pubs. Step through its narrow entrance and the space opens up into a long, welcoming interior with a hidden beer garden at the back, capturing the sun on clear days. Established in 1991, this pub has become a beacon of Irish hospitality in north London, even earning the accolade of “Most authentic Irish pub in the world outside Ireland” from the Irish Times. It currently boasts an excellent 4.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings, a testament to its enduring popularity.

The charm of The Auld Shillelagh lies in its simple formula: great beer, friendly atmosphere, and no pretension. It was opened by an Irish family from County Roscommon, and over the past three decades it has retained every ounce of its original character while expanding to accommodate a growing fanbase. In fact, what started as a tiny one-room bar has since tripled in size, extending far back from the street. Regulars and newcomers alike are drawn in by the promise of a perfect pint – especially the Guinness, which many swear is the best you’ll find in London. There’s a genuine warmth here that makes you feel at home whether you’re a local “Stokey” resident or a first-time visitor who just wandered in after hearing the buzz.

Facilities & Entertainment

Despite its compact frontage, The Auld Shillelagh makes the most of its space with a range of classic pub amenities. Like most London locals, there’s no on-site parking available – but with its location on a well-served bus route and near Stoke Newington Overground station, you won’t miss having a car. Inside, you’ll find a dartboard in active use, keeping the competitive spirit alive over a few pints (in fact, when the pub first opened, a lone dartboard on the toilet door was about the only entertainment aside from conversation!). Today, multiple large TV screens are mounted around the bar, ready to broadcast live sports. The pub proudly screens major sporting events, from Premier League and Six Nations rugby to Gaelic football and hurling matches, drawing enthusiastic crowds on match days. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere here during a big Gaelic games final or a rugby showdown – expect cheers, groans, and plenty of banter among patrons glued to the action.

For those seeking a bit of live entertainment, The Auld Shillelagh does not disappoint. True to its Irish roots, the pub hosts traditional music sessions on a weekly basis. On these nights, you might catch a group of fiddlers and folk musicians tucked into a corner, rolling out lively reels and jigs that get toes tapping. The sound of a fiddle, tin whistle, or bodhrán drum can transform an ordinary evening into an Irish céilí. These jam sessions are informal but spirited – occasionally patrons will break into song or clap along, adding to the communal feel. And if music or sports aren’t your mood, you can always retreat to the pub’s beer garden out back. This outdoor space is a true gem: a sun-trap garden that’s nicely secluded and equipped with heaters for year-round use. Whether you’re basking in summer rays or huddling under the heaters on a chilly night, the garden offers a refreshing change of scene and a bit of breathing room from the lively bar indoors.

Food on Offer

The Auld Shillelagh is first and foremost a drinks-focused pub, so don’t arrive expecting a full gastropub menu – the emphasis here is squarely on pints and craic (good company and fun). That said, you won’t go hungry if you just need a snack to accompany your beverage. The bar stocks a selection of classic pub snacks and Irish nibbles. You can grab a bag of crisps or nuts, and in true Irish fashion they even offer the famed Tayto crisps (Ireland’s beloved potato chips) for an authentic taste of home. It’s a small touch that Irish expats appreciate – nothing goes with a Guinness quite like a pack of cheese & onion Taytos!

While day-to-day there isn’t a sprawling food menu, the pub occasionally rolls out simple fare during special events or particularly busy match days. On a big rugby Saturday or St. Patrick’s Day, you might find a pop-up barbecue in the garden or the staff serving up something hearty like Irish stew or piping-hot meat pies to keep the crowd fuelled. These offerings aren’t guaranteed every week, but they’ve been known to make an appearance when the occasion calls for it. The lack of a kitchen actually contributes to the Shillelagh’s charm – it’s the kind of place where people come more to drink and socialise than to dine. Plus, being located on Stoke Newington Church Street means you’re only steps away from plenty of eateries and takeaways. It’s not uncommon to see folks step out for a quick bite at a nearby fish-and-chips shop or pizzeria and then return to their pints, satiated and ready to continue the night. In short, food at The Auld Shillelagh is all about no-fuss, tasty snacks when you need them, but the real focus is on the pints and the people.

Beers on Tap

If there’s one thing you must try at The Auld Shillelagh, it’s a pint of their Guinness – arguably the pub’s crown jewel. This place has built its reputation on serving what many call a near-perfect pint of the black stuff. In fact, The Auld Shillelagh’s Guinness is regularly touted by reviewers and locals alike as the best in North London – some would even argue it’s among the best in all of England. That’s high praise, but one sip of the rich, velvety stout here and you’ll understand why. The bartenders pour each Guinness with meticulous care, following the traditional two-step method to the letter: they’ll fill the glass about three-quarters and then allow the stout to settle before topping it off to achieve that perfect creamy head. They don’t rush this process – in fact, to save you from waiting idly at the bar, the staff will often bring your pint over to your table as it finishes settling. It’s this kind of attention to detail that makes the difference; every Guinness comes out smooth, cold, and with a thick foamy crown that could make a Dublin pub owner proud.

Of course, if by some chance you’re not in the mood for Guinness (though at The Auld Shillelagh, you’d be missing the point by skipping it), there are other brews on tap to wet your whistle. As a traditional free house pub, the Shillelagh isn’t tied to a single brewery, so it curates a basic but quality list of beers. Expect to find a couple of classic lagers (for instance, well-known pours like Carlsberg or Heineken) and perhaps a straightforward pale ale or bitter for ale drinkers. They aren’t aiming to be a craft beer bar – you won’t see a long line-up of IPAs or fruit-infused saisons here. Instead, the ethos is keep it simple and keep it good. You might find the occasional guest ale rotating through (often a dependable English bitter or stout from a regional brewery), but the core line-up stays true to what an Irish local would offer. There’s Guinness (plenty of it), a few session lagers, and the usual bottled staples for those who prefer cider or other options. Wine and spirits are available too, albeit in a no-nonsense fashion – wine choices run basically “red or white,” and the whiskey selection leans toward Irish favourites alongside the standard bar well. The straightforward selection is actually part of the appeal: quality over quantity. Every pint is well-kept, the lines are clean, and the focus remains on pouring the classics properly. And with the Guinness this good, fancy craft brews are hardly missed.

Price Range & Value

By London standards, The Auld Shillelagh is comfortably in the ££ mid-range when it comes to prices, offering good value considering the quality and location. A pint of beer here will generally set you back around £5 to £7, depending on what you’re drinking – with Guinness typically on the lower end of that range (and worth every penny for its superb quality). These prices are pretty standard for a beloved independent pub in London and won’t give you sticker shock, especially if you’re used to central London pint prices that often creep higher. In fact, many patrons comment that for the experience and the product you get, it’s money well spent. The pints are poured to perfection, the atmosphere is free (and priceless), and there’s usually some form of entertainment or camaraderie that adds extra value to your visit.

One of the great things here is that there aren’t a lot of hidden costs or upsells. There’s no entry fee on live music nights or big game days – you can enjoy the fiddles or the footy without buying a ticket, just the price of your drink. Service is mostly at the bar, so you won’t generally find service charges added to your bill (as sometimes happens in table-service bars). Tipping isn’t expected in UK pubs, though if a staff member goes above and beyond or you’re feeling generous, a small tip or simply offering to buy them a pint is always appreciated. In terms of food, since the pub doesn’t run a full kitchen, you’re also not facing gastropub prices for meals. Basically, a visit to The Auld Shillelagh won’t break the bank, and most customers feel they get solid bang for their buck. The portions of craic, you could say, are very generous for the cost of a pint or two! Compared to flashier venues, this pub proves that you don’t need fancy cocktails or gourmet menus to deliver a satisfying night out – just pour a great beer, charge a fair price, and let the good times roll.

Customer Service

Walk into The Auld Shillelagh and one of the first things you’ll likely notice is the genuine welcome. This pub has been family-run with pride for over 30 years, and that sense of personal investment shows in the way it’s operated. Regulars will tell you that the staff here – from the veteran bartenders to the folks collecting glasses – are an especially friendly and down-to-earth bunch. In my own experience, from the moment I approached the bar I was greeted with a smile and a bit of banter, as if I were a long-lost friend rather than a stranger. There’s a personal touch to the service; the team seems to truly enjoy what they do, and they’re happy to chat about the beers on tap or the score of the match on TV, all while efficiently keeping those pints flowing.

Even on busy nights, the crew remains impressively quick and attentive. They have to be, given how fast the pub fills up during a big event or a Friday evening rush. Yet even in the thick of a crowd, you’ll see the bartenders calmly working through orders with practised expertise – and doing it all with that trademark Irish hospitality. Many patrons specifically praise how knowledgeable the staff are about their signature drink. Ask about the Guinness, and you might get a passionate mini-lesson on what makes a perfect pour. The staff take obvious pride in their craft, and rightly so. (The management even boasts that they’d put their bar staff up against the best in London, and it’s easy to see why.) If you become a repeat visitor, you can expect to be remembered; there’s a good chance the next time you walk in, your favourite drink might be already halfway poured by the time you reach the bar, with a nod of recognition. It’s that kind of place.

Another aspect of service here is how the staff handles the logistics in a narrow, bustling pub. They do little things, like bringing your settled Guinness over to you as mentioned, or deftly weaving through the crowd to collect empties, that keep things running smoothly. They’re also quite accommodating – if you have a special request like needing a Guinness topped up a certain way, or you’re curious to sample a sip of a guest ale before committing, they’ll oblige with no hint of bother. And should anything not be to your liking, they’re quick to set it right. Importantly, the warmth isn’t just an act; over the years, the pub has fostered a sense of community, and the staff often know the locals by name. During the height of the pandemic and other challenging times, this pub and its people looked out for each other – a fact that many in the neighbourhood appreciate deeply. All told, the customer service at The Auld Shillelagh goes beyond just efficiency; it makes you feel like you belong, which keeps folks coming back again and again.

Events & Special Nights

When it comes to events and special occasions, The Auld Shillelagh knows how to throw a party while keeping true to its roots. Live music is a staple: as noted, you’ll find traditional Irish music sessions here on a weekly basis. These aren’t formal concerts so much as they are casual gatherings of talented musicians and enthusiasts having a bit of a jam. One night a week (often a Thursday or Friday), the corner of the pub becomes a mini-stage for fiddles, guitars, maybe an accordion, and hearty renditions of Irish folk songs. It’s the kind of scene where someone might start singing “Whiskey in the Jar” and the whole pub joins in by the final chorus. The energy is infectious, and for those few hours, a piece of County Kerry or Galway seems to materialise right there in Stoke Newington.

Sports are the other big draw. The pub’s Irish identity shines especially bright during major sporting events – think Six Nations rugby clashes, Gaelic football and hurling championship finals, or even big soccer matches. Game nights at The Auld Shillelagh can be standing-room only, with fans packed in tight, eyes glued to the screens and pints in hand. If Ireland is playing in the rugby or GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) finals, expect an especially electric atmosphere – jerseys worn proudly, spontaneous singing of Irish anthems, and roars of triumph or anguish at every try or goal. The pub makes sure to show all the key matches that their clientele cares about, and that includes English Premier League games and international tournaments as well. It’s a communal experience: even if you came alone, you’ll find yourself high-fiving or commiserating with total strangers over the outcome of a match, bonded by shared team loyalties (or friendly rivalries).

Aside from the regular music nights and sports showings, The Auld Shillelagh also celebrates special themed nights and holidays with gusto. St. Patrick’s Day, as you can imagine, is the pub’s Super Bowl. Each year on March 17th (and often the weekend surrounding it), the place erupts into a full-day festival. Think live music spilling into multiple sessions, everybody dressed in green, pints of Guinness raised in unison, and perhaps a face painter or some decorations to add to the fun. The pub usually can’t even take bookings for Paddy’s Day due to sheer demand – it’s first-come, first-served for what many describe as one of the most authentic St. Patrick’s Day experiences in London. Other Irish holidays or events (like St. Stephen’s Day on December 26, or notable Irish sporting victories) bring their own festivities, too. The staff leans into the spirit, often donning themed attire or distributing the odd freebie (you might snag a branded Guinness hat or some shamrock stickers on special nights).

Even beyond specifically Irish occasions, the pub sometimes runs themed music nights or fun one-offs. There have been retro music nights, charity fundraisers, or even a tongue-in-cheek David Bowie tribute night in the past (a nod to the eclectic tastes of Stoke Newington). Additionally, the Auld Shillelagh has been known to collaborate with the local community – for instance, participating in Stoke Newington’s annual music festival or hosting a meetup for a local club. Keep an eye on their social media or the chalkboard by the bar for announcements, because there’s always something on the horizon. Whether it’s a Saturday night with a lively cover band, a Sunday afternoon watching the All-Ireland final, or a once-a-year celebration of all things Irish, there’s usually a reason to raise a glass at The Auld Shillelagh.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Auld Shillelagh, the atmosphere hits you in the best possible way. It’s cosy and energetic all at once – a bit like walking into a friendly village pub back in Ireland, except you’re in the middle of London. The interior decor is everything you’d hope for in an authentic Irish pub without feeling contrived. The walls and shelves are adorned with a charming jumble of Irish memorabilia and pub paraphernalia: you’ll spot tricolour Irish flags hanging proudly, scarves and banners from Six Nations rugby, maybe a hurling stick or two mounted as decoration, and Guinness-branded knickknacks of every variety. Yet it never crosses into tacky territory – it feels earned and genuine, as much a part of the pub as the wooden bar itself. In fact, much of the interior features dark wood panelling, giving a warm, traditional backdrop to all the decor. The lighting tends to be soft, with a golden glow from vintage-style fixtures that makes everyone look good and encourages you to linger. You might even notice some quirky personal touches – for instance, one wall sports a series of framed photos of Frank Sinatra alongside classic pub mirrors. It’s an eclectic mix, but it works, creating a space that’s full of character.

The layout of the pub, as mentioned, is long and narrow. The front section by the entrance houses the main bar and can be fairly packed during peak hours. Elbowing your way to order another pint is simply part of the experience on a busy night. Further back, the space opens into a few more nooks and seating areas, and eventually leads to the open-air beer garden. Despite the narrow footprint, they’ve optimised every corner – there are high stools along ledges, a couple of snug bench-seat alcoves, and standing room wherever you turn. On a mellow weekday afternoon, you can easily find a cosy corner to sit and chat in peace, but on weekend nights, the entire pub comes alive with conversation and laughter reverberating off the wood-panelled walls. The clientele is a big part of that atmosphere: it’s a wonderfully mixed crowd. You’ll see groups of long-time local regulars (including older Irish gentlemen who have been coming since the ’90s) swapping stories by the bar. You’ll find younger Hackney and Islington professionals meeting up with friends, as well as Irish expats looking for a taste of home. Even a few curious tourists find their way here, drawn by the pub’s renown for Guinness and craic. Remarkably, everyone mingles. By the end of an evening, it’s not unusual to have struck up a conversation with the table next to you or made a new friend out in the garden. The vibe is very inclusive and convivial – whether you walk in alone or with a gang, you’ll feel comfortable. There’s a shared understanding among patrons that they’re in a special spot, and that tends to bring out the best in people.

As for accessibility, the pub does its best within the constraints of a historic building. The entrance from the street is practically level (just a small step), so getting in isn’t too difficult for most. The ground floor (where all the action is) has no internal stairs, stretching straight through to the garden on one continuous level. This means that in uncrowded times, a wheelchair or pram could manoeuvrer through. However, on very busy nights, the narrow pathways can become challenging to navigate – it’s wall-to-wall people then, and moving about requires some patience and the occasional polite “excuse me.” The bar is at the front and there’s a clear path along one side of the pub leading back, but again, space is at a premium when packed. The beer garden is accessible through a set of double doors at the back, which are usually open in good weather (and even if closed, they can be opened fully to allow access). The garden itself has plenty of bench seating and is on the same level, making it an easy spot to duck out to if you need a bit more room or fresh air. As for facilities, the toilets are located toward the rear inside; they’re traditional and not specifically spacious or modern, which could be a consideration for those needing extra room or support. There isn’t a dedicated accessible restroom installed, given the building’s limitations. On the plus side, the staff and regulars are the helpful sort – if someone needed a hand (say, getting a drink carried to their table or assistance opening a door), there’s little doubt it would be willingly provided.

One more thing to note about the atmosphere: the pub is dog-friendly and family-friendly in moderation. It’s not unusual to see a local pop in with a well-behaved dog during off-peak hours, the pup lounging under the table while their owner chats away. And on weekend afternoons, you might see a couple of parents with a baby in a pram or kids in tow, enjoying a quick daytime drink (the garden is especially popular for families earlier in the day). As the evening wears on, though, it does revert to an adult ambiance – lively and loud. The sound of lively chatter, clinking glasses, and maybe a bit of Pogues or Dubliners music playing softly in the background sets the scene. In winter, if you’re lucky, you might even snag a spot near an indoor heater or the faux-fireplace feature, making it extra cosy. All told, The Auld Shillelagh’s atmosphere is bang on: it feels authentic, hearty, and full of life, the kind of place where time flies and you leave with a smile on your face (and perhaps a song stuck in your head).

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Auld Shillelagh enjoys a prime spot on Stoke Newington Church Street, one of north London’s most vibrant neighbourhood streets. Stoke Newington (often nicknamed “Stokey”) is a bit off the typical tourist trail, but it’s well worth exploring – and this pub is one of the area’s standout highlights. Getting here is straightforward. The pub’s address is 105 Stoke Newington Church Street, London N16 0UD, and while there’s no Tube station in the immediate vicinity, public transport will get you close. The Stoke Newington rail station (part of the London Overground network) is roughly a 10-minute walk away, making it easy for those coming from the Liverpool Street direction or connecting via the Overground. Several bus routes also serve the area: for instance, the 73 bus from central London stops a short stroll from the pub, and routes like 393 and 476 link Stoke Newington to nearby districts. If you’re coming from central or east London, a quick hop on a bus or Overground train will have you soaking in Irish hospitality in no time.

Church Street itself is a delightful stretch to wander before or after your visit. On the eastern end of the street (just a few minutes’ walk from The Auld Shillelagh) you’ll find the expansive Clissold Park, one of London’s loveliest green spaces. On a nice day, you might take your pint to go (plastic cup in hand) and enjoy a walk in the park, though most will prefer to relax in the pub’s own beer garden. Clissold Park offers walking paths, ponds with ducks and swans, tennis courts, and even a small zoo (with deer and goats) by the historic Clissold House – a great spot to clear your head or have a picnic. Closer to the pub, along Church Street, you’ll encounter a mix of independent shops, cafés, and eateries that give Stoke Newington its character. There are vintage bookstores, artisanal bakeries, and boutique clothing shops dotted between other pubs and restaurants. Just across the way from The Auld Shillelagh you might find an old church or two – in fact, the street gets its name from the Stoke Newington Church at the western end and the historic St. Mary’s Old Church nearby, which is worth a peek for history buffs (it’s one of the area’s oldest buildings).

Another noteworthy site, practically around the corner, is Abney Park Cemetery, a Victorian “garden cemetery” that is one of London’s famous Magnificent Seven burial grounds. It’s a beautiful, atmospheric park today – overgrown in a Gothic way, with notable figures interred there, and it doubles as a nature reserve. If you enjoy history or a quiet contemplative walk, Abney Park is a unique attraction just a five-minute stroll from the pub’s doorstep. It offers a stark, tranquil contrast to the lively pub scene – an interesting one-two for an afternoon in Stoke Newington. Additionally, the wider Stoke Newington area has plenty of other pubs and nightlife; for instance, around the High Street you’ll find some trendy cocktail bars and a couple of live music venues. But ask any local, and they’ll likely point you back to Church Street for the more authentic, low-key evening out.

In essence, The Auld Shillelagh’s location gives you the best of both worlds: you’re in a bustling London neighbourhood with lots to see and do, yet you’re far enough from the tourist hordes to feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem. You can easily make a day of it – start with brunch at a cute Church Street café, browse the quirky shops, relax in Clissold Park’s greenery, and then as the sun starts to dip, mosey on over to the Shillelagh for that perfect pint of Guinness awaiting you. And because Stoke Newington has such a community feel, don’t be surprised if you end up chatting with a local at the bar who offers more tips on things to check out nearby. It’s that kind of friendly area. Just be warned: once you get comfortable at The Auld Shillelagh, you may not want to leave to do much else!

Overall Impression

After diving into pints and good craic at The Auld Shillelagh, one thing is clear: this pub isn’t just a place to grab a drink – it’s an experience, a little slice of Ireland transplanted into London. The combination of factors at play here is something truly special. First and foremost, the atmosphere crafted by the owners and staff is genuinely warm and inviting. There’s no gimmick or corporate polish, just an honest-to-goodness pub where the staff remember your face and the regulars might pull you into a conversation. Then there’s the heritage: though relatively young by London pub standards (established in 1991), The Auld Shillelagh has the soul of a pub that’s been around far longer. It has stories in its walls and a legacy – of pouring excellent Guinness, of hosting countless music sessions, of celebrating Irish culture – that has earned it a loyal following. It’s consistently rated highly by those who visit, and it even snagged that Irish Times award declaring it the most authentic Irish pub outside Ireland, which is no small feat.

Of course, like any popular spot, it has its quirks and minor downsides. If you’re someone who craves a quiet, spacious bar where you can always find a seat, you might find The Auld Shillelagh’s cosy confines and often bustling crowds a bit overwhelming at peak times. It’s a pub that can get very crowded, and on a packed Saturday night you may find yourself jostling for elbow room or waiting a bit longer to get your order in. Likewise, if you’re not a beer drinker or you’re hunting for the latest craft IPA or a fancy cocktail, this isn’t really the venue for that – the drink selection is deliberately old-school and limited, and some might say “if you don’t like Guinness, why are you here?” (Though of course you can get other standard drinks, just nothing too exotic.) These are relatively small trade-offs, however, for what you get in return. The positives far outweigh any negatives. The sheer quality of the Guinness, the camaraderie among patrons, the toe-tapping music, and the sense that you’ve stumbled into a pub with a heart and personality all its own – those are things you can’t put a price on.

A visit to The Auld Shillelagh feels like visiting an old friend – one who happens to pour a phenomenal pint. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking out the best pubs in London, especially if you have a soft spot for Irish pubs or just want to see what all the fuss about “the best Guinness in town” is about. Come for the Guinness, stay for the craic, and leave with a lasting memory (and maybe a new friend or two). This pub manages to capture the essence of Irish hospitality and transplant it into the middle of Stoke Newington, and the result is a convivial, joyous atmosphere that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your first pint.