The Prince of Wales - Highgate - Pub Reviews

The Prince of Wales is a historic and community-focused pub in Highgate, North London (address: 53 Highgate High Street, N6 5JX). Housed in an 18th-century building that is Grade II-listed, this pub has been serving locals since 1864 – aptly named after the future King Edward VII, who held the title Prince of Wales at that time. Steeped in traditional charm with its wood-panelled interior and vintage prints on the walls, the Prince of Wales strikes a delightful balance between being a traditional British pub and a contemporary community hub. It’s a popular haunt for Highgate villagers – from young professionals dropping by for an evening pint to families enjoying a relaxed weekend lunch – all drawn by the pub’s welcoming atmosphere, well-kept ales, and freshly made pizzas. The pub currently holds a strong customer rating of around 4.2 out of 5, reflecting an excellent reputation for its ambience, food, and service. Opening hours are 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, and 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

In keeping with its traditional pub vibe, the Prince of Wales offers a cosy, no-frills setting that priorities good conversation and community feel over high-tech entertainment. Notably, there is no on-site parking available – pretty standard for a historic London pub in a village-like area – so visitors arriving by car will need to find street parking or use nearby public lots (parking can be tight in Highgate). Inside the pub, you won’t find the usual dartboards or pool tables, and big-screen sports are absent as well. The management has chosen to eschew those typical pub games and live sports broadcasts, which means you won’t be jostling with loud football crowds or the clack of pool balls. Instead, the ambience is calmer and more conversation-friendly, geared toward patrons who are here to enjoy a pint in peace or engage in a friendly chat. This lack of blaring TVs and arcade machines is quite intentional – it helps maintain the down-to-earth atmosphere that regulars love (one review even noted it as “the most down-to-earth pub on Highgate’s lofty slopes,” specifically avoiding the touristy frenzy seen at some other pubs nearby).

That said, the Prince of Wales isn’t devoid of fun – it just offers it in a more low-key, community-oriented way. For one, the pub provides a selection of board games that groups can play at their table, echoing the feel of a classic British local where you might challenge your friends to a game of cards or Scrabble over a pint. The real centrepiece of the pub’s entertainment, however, is its popular weekly quiz night (more on that in the Events section), which brings a great buzz to the place. Another feature to highlight is the outdoor space: a small rear patio (often adorned with hanging flower baskets in summer) overlooks Pond Square, offering a pleasant alfresco area for patrons. This patio – essentially the pub’s beer garden – is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s the perfect spot to grab some fresh air with your drink, especially on a sunny afternoon. The area is also dog-friendly, so you’ll occasionally see locals with their canine companions lounging out back. Smokers tend to favour this outdoor nook as well, as it provides a convenient, relaxed environment to enjoy a cigarette without straying far. In summary, while the Prince of Wales lacks high-energy gimmicks, it compensates with a comfortable, homey environment that encourages socialising and old-fashioned pub camaraderie.

Food on Offer

When it comes to food, the Prince of Wales follows a “quality over quantity” philosophy with a concise yet appealing menu. The main culinary draw here is the pizza – and it’s something of a local legend. The pub serves freshly made pizzas that are cooked to order and arrive with generous toppings of fresh ingredients. Don’t expect an exhaustive menu of gastropub dishes; in fact, aside from some bar snacks or rotating specials, pizza is the star (and nearly sole) offering. But this singular focus has a payoff: the pizzas consistently earn praise from patrons for their flavourful simplicity and delicious execution. Each pizza comes out with a crispy, well-baked thin crust and a balance of toppings that never feels skimpy. Whether you opt for a classic Margherita or a more loaded option, you can taste the freshness in every bite. The kitchen clearly takes pride in doing one thing extremely well, rather than stretching itself across a broad menu. It’s not uncommon to overhear a first-time visitor exclaim that they hadn’t expected a pub to serve pizza this good – it certainly leaves a memorable impression.

While pizza is the headline, the pub will occasionally offer a few other light bites or specials to complement your drink. On most days, however, you won’t find the typical array of pub mains (don’t come here looking for fish and chips or a Sunday roast – that’s not their focus). Vegetarian options are usually covered by at least one pizza variant (like a veggie-loaded pie), and if you have kids in tow, they tend to enjoy the pizza as well, making it a family-friendly choice for an easy lunch. The limited scope of the menu actually contributes to the pub’s charm: it feels more like an authentic drinking hole that happens to serve a cracking good pizza rather than a full restaurant or gastropub. Many locals will plan their visit around mealtimes just to grab one of those pies. If you’re peckish for anything beyond what’s on offer, the bar does stock the usual packet snacks (crisps, nuts, maybe pork scratchings) to tide you over. But honestly, a hot, fresh pizza and a pint of ale make for such a satisfying combo here that most people don’t ask for much else. In short, the Prince of Wales may keep its food menu straightforward, but it nails it with the item it chooses to serve – ensuring that visitors remember the excellent pizza as a key part of their experience.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will feel right at home at the Prince of Wales, as the pub prides itself on a well-curated selection of ales and lagers on tap. The focus is firmly on real ales and quality brews, often showcasing offerings from local breweries alongside a couple of beloved national brands. As an independent pub (part of a small North London group rather than tied to a big brewery), it has the freedom to rotate its beer line-up, meaning there’s usually something new or interesting to try on different visits. You can expect a mix of classic British pints – think amber bitters and refreshing golden ales – complemented by seasonal or guest beers that rotate in. For example, one recent line-up featured the Yorkshire-born classic Timothy Taylor’s Landlord as a regular cask ale, paired with a stronger guest ale (notably Theakston’s Old Peculier was spotted on tap in early 2023). On other days, you might find a hoppy IPA from a London microbrewery or a malty stout when the weather turns cold. The bartenders are quite knowledgeable about their beer selection and are happy to offer a recommendation if you’re undecided – say, guiding you toward the latest guest ale or explaining the flavour profile of a local craft brew you haven’t tried.

Importantly, the quality of the beer is something the Prince of Wales takes seriously. The pub has earned recognition from real ale lovers for keeping its pints in excellent condition. (In fact, it’s listed in the Cask Marque directory, indicating it adheres to high standards for beer quality.) The cask ales are well-maintained at proper cellaring temperature, and you can usually count on a crisp pint with good head retention – sure signs that the lines are cleaned regularly and the turnover is brisk. Many a customer has commented that their pint here tastes especially fresh. The pub also carries the usual line-up of lagers and popular beers for those who prefer them, including a couple of big-name taps (you’ll likely find staples like Guinness, plus a Pilsner or two for lager drinkers). Wine drinkers and spirit aficionados are not left out either: there’s a decent wine list and a full bar of spirits and mixers to cater to all tastes. But if you ask us, beer is king at the Prince of Wales, and trying one of their real ales – perhaps a pint of something locally brewed – is highly recommended. It’s the kind of place where you can discover a new favourite ale one week and find another rotating in by your next visit, keeping the experience interesting for beer lovers while still delivering the reliable classics.

Price Range & Value

By London standards, the Prince of Wales falls into a comfortable mid-range (££) price category, offering good value for the quality and location. As of 2025, a typical pint of beer here costs around £5–£6, which is about average for a pint in this part of North London. Specialty or stronger craft beers might inch toward the upper end of that range, but broadly you’re looking at prices that won’t break the bank. The freshly made pizzas (quite generously sized, enough to satisfy one very hungry person or to share as a snack) generally range from £12–£15, depending on toppings. This pricing is in line with London pub norms and is considered fair given the quality of ingredients and the area’s general affluence. In fact, many patrons comment that the value for money is excellent – you get a hearty, well-crafted pizza for what you’d pay for a standard meal elsewhere, and pints are similarly well-priced considering their freshness and the setting.

One thing to appreciate is that there aren’t a lot of hidden costs or upsells here. Service is typically informal (order at the bar for food and drinks), and there’s no compulsory service charge added to your bill – any tipping is at your discretion for good service. Portion sizes are satisfying: a £13 pizza here will leave you full, and drinks are served in proper measures. The pub does occasional deals or specials – for instance, sometimes a weeknight pizza+drink combo, or a seasonal ale at a promotional price – but even without discounts, regulars feel they get their money’s worth. Given the location in a historic Highgate Village enclave, some might expect prices to be higher, but the Prince of Wales has kept things reasonable to remain a true neighbourhood pub. In comparison to the flashy gastropubs or tourist-trap bars elsewhere in London that might charge more for less authenticity, this pub offers a refreshingly honest deal. You’ll leave feeling that a night out in Highgate didn’t cost a fortune, yet delivered on quality – which in itself keeps people coming back. Overall, for the atmosphere, taste, and service provided, the pricing at Prince of Wales is a fair bargain that reinforces its appeal as a great local pub.

Customer Service

One of the hallmarks of the Prince of Wales is its warm and welcoming service. This pub has a way of making you feel like a Highgate local, even if it’s your very first visit. Walk up to the bar and you’re likely to be greeted with a smile and a bit of friendly banter from the staff. The pub is family-run (for over 25 years) and that pride of ownership shines through in how the place is managed and how customers are treated. Regulars are recognised by name, newcomers are engaged in conversation, and there’s a genuine effort to ensure everyone feels at home. Many customer reviews highlight the friendliness and attentiveness of the team behind the bar. For example, if you’re indecisive about what pint to try, don’t be surprised if the bartender offers you a little sample taste or enthusiastically describes the differences between the ales on tap. They’re knowledgeable about their beers and happy to share recommendations. If you’re grabbing a pizza, the staff will let you know as soon as it’s ready, sometimes even bringing it over to your table if you’re engrossed in conversation (despite the general self-service style, they often go the extra mile when they can).

During peak times, like a packed Friday night or the rush right before quiz night, the bar can get understandably busy. There may be a short wait to get a drink or for your food, but even then the staff usually keep their cool and maintain a cheerful demeanour. You might catch them joking about the crowd or deftly juggling multiple orders – it’s clear they’re experienced and work as a close-knit team. There have been occasional comments about slight delays when the pub is absolutely full, but these instances are the exception and most folks are in good spirits knowing their pint or pizza is on its way. If you happen to visit on a quieter afternoon, you’ll likely find the staff even more chatty, perhaps sharing a bit of local history or suggesting other spots to check out in Highgate. It’s that approachable, neighbourly service that sticks in many people’s minds. The landlord (or landlady) themselves is often around, supervising and socialising – they take obvious care in running the place, which adds to the community feel. Overall, the customer service here is efficient, professional, and genuinely friendly, reinforcing why the Prince of Wales has so many loyal regulars who rave about how they’re treated. In short, you’re not just a customer here, you’re a valued guest – and that feeling keeps people coming back time and again.

Events & Special Nights

While the Prince of Wales maintains a relaxed vibe most days, it definitely knows how to turn up the energy when it comes to special events. The headline attraction on the calendar is the weekly quiz night, which has become something of a local institution. Every week (traditionally on Tuesday evenings), the pub fills up with teams of trivia enthusiasts ready to battle wits in a friendly competition. In fact, the quiz at the Prince of Wales is renowned for being both lively and challenging. It’s not your average easy-peasy pub quiz – it has a reputation, as noted by a London pub review site, for possibly being “the toughest in London”. Don’t let that intimidate you, though; it’s all part of the fun. The difficulty of the questions just means the regular quizzers are a dedicated bunch, often attracting some brainy locals (and even a few self-proclaimed trivia experts from around the city) who love the challenge. The quiz is usually run by an engaging quiz master and comes with modest prizes – perhaps a bar tab, free drinks, or a cheeky jackpot for the winning team. Even if you don’t win, it’s a great night out: the atmosphere is buzzing, with lots of good-natured debate and laughter as questions spark conversations. If you’re planning to attend, get there early to snag a table; quiz night tends to draw a crowd, and the pub’s snug layout means seats go fast. Teams are often a mix of ages – you might see a group of university friends at one table and a couple of long-time Highgate residents at the next, all duking it out over trivia. The camaraderie (and perhaps the pizza-fueled brainpower) makes it a highlight of the week for many.

Beyond the famous quiz night, the Prince of Wales sprinkles in other special events and themed evenings throughout the year to keep things interesting. They’re not a full-on entertainment venue, but they do tap into the community spirit for occasional happenings. For example, around holidays you can expect some seasonal celebrations – a Halloween night with spooky decorations and maybe a costume contest, a festive Christmas jumper gathering in December, or special themed drinks for St. Patrick’s Day. The pub has been known to host themed quiz nights too, such as a music-themed trivia night or special quizzes timed with events like the World Cup (even if they don’t regularly show sports, they’ll get into the spirit of big national events in their own way). Live music isn’t a regular feature here, but once in a blue moon they might have an acoustic act or a local singer-songwriter perform on a weekend afternoon, especially if it’s tied to a community event or charity fundraiser. One thing you won’t find regularly are DJ parties or late-night raves – that’s just not this pub’s style. It leans more towards neighbourly get-togethers than wild nightlife. However, if there’s a major sports final or an England match during a tournament, the pub has occasionally set up a TV or projector for a one-off screening, bringing everyone together to cheer (these instances are rare and more communal than commercial). In summary, the Prince of Wales excels at the community-focused events: the quiz night is a must-try if you’re in the area on a Tuesday, and keep an eye on their social media or chalkboard for other modest but fun events. It’s all about creating a sociable, inclusive environment – whether you’re a regular or just popping in, you’re invited to join the fun and maybe become part of the local lore.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

The atmosphere at the Prince of Wales is one of its strongest selling points – it’s the kind of pub where the moment you step inside, you feel a sense of history and warmth. The interior decor stays true to its heritage: you’ll find dark wood-panelled walls, a traditional bar counter, and an assortment of vintage photographs and quirky old prints (many depicting Highgate’s past dignitaries and local scenes) adorning the walls. There’s even a real log fireplace that gets lit in colder months, adding a literal warm glow to the surroundings. On a chilly evening, grabbing a seat near the crackling fire with a pint in hand is pure bliss – it’s an experience that harks back to classic English inns of old. Despite the building’s 18th-century bones, the pub is well-maintained and doesn’t feel stuffy; rather, it feels authentically aged in the best way, like a living piece of local history. High ceilings and a clever layout make the single-room bar area feel surprisingly spacious and open, even though the pub isn’t huge. There are cosy corners and alcoves where you can tuck yourself away with friends, as well as a few taller tables and stools near the bar for those who prefer to stay in the mix. The absence of blaring TVs means the background audio is usually a mix of soft music and the hum of conversation – an ideal setting for actually talking to your companions without shouting. Patrons often comment on the authentic charm of the place; it’s the polar opposite of a sterile chain pub. Instead, it’s the sort of spot where each nick in the wood and each framed photo seems to tell a story. During daylight, light streams in from the front windows looking onto the High Street, and the back opens out toward the greenery of Pond Square, giving a nice sense of place. By evening, the warm lighting from vintage fixtures and the gentle buzz of chat give the pub a snug, inviting ambience that’s hard to resist.

The clientele here is as diverse and friendly as the atmosphere itself. On any given day, you might see a group of long-time Highgate residents greeting each other by the bar, a couple of tourists who’ve wandered up the hill to escape the city bustle, a cluster of young professionals unwinding after work, or even some local writers or artists (Highgate has many) quietly observing the scene from a corner – perhaps gathering inspiration. This mix of people creates a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable. There’s a kind of unspoken community vibe: strangers strike up conversations, dogs happily sniff around (yes, as mentioned, it’s a dog-friendly pub, especially in the garden area), and the staff often know the regulars’ usual orders. Despite being in an affluent part of town, the pub remains unpretentious – it *“doesn’t get the ‘considerably richer than you’ crowd” that some other N6 venues do. Instead, it’s genuinely down-to-earth. The dress code is whatever you feel comfortable in, and the mood is relaxed. This is not to say the pub is always quiet – it can get lively and full of laughter, particularly on a busy weekend night or during quiz events, but it’s the laughter of friends and neighbours having a good time, not the raucous shouts of a sports bar. Speaking of busy nights, it’s worth noting that the Prince of Wales, due to its popularity and cosy size, can fill up fast. On Friday or Saturday evenings, or when the weather is lovely and everyone wants to be in the beer garden, you might find the space gets a bit tight. It’s wise to arrive a bit earlier if you want a table, especially if you’re with a group. Despite the crowding at peak times, the vibe remains convivial rather than chaotic. People tend to be courteous, sharing bench space or inviting others to join their table when seating is scarce – it’s that kind of friendly atmosphere. As for accessibility, the pub being in an old building does mean there are a couple of limitations. The entrance is at street level (with perhaps a small step), and once inside the bar area is all one level with fairly tight passages when it’s crowded. There’s no dedicated ramp or lift (and no accessible toilet on a different floor – all facilities are on the ground floor). Wheelchair users have visited, but manoeuvring can be a challenge if the pub is full, so off-peak times would be easier. For those with mobility issues, staff are very happy to assist – they’ll bring your drinks over to a table for you if needed. The lack of on-site parking was mentioned earlier; however, public transport access and the walkability of Highgate mitigate that. In essence, the Prince of Wales offers an atmosphere of relaxed, old-world charm infused with the lively spirit of the local community. It’s a place where you can truly slow down and enjoy the moment – whether you’re sipping a pint by the fire in winter or chatting with friends under the fairy lights in the garden on a summer evening, the atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve found your home pub.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Highgate Village is one of London’s treasured historic neighbourhoods – perched on a hill in North London – and the Prince of Wales sits right in the heart of it. The pub’s location on Highgate High Street means it’s surrounded by quaint period architecture, boutique shops, and a sprinkling of other pubs and cafés, all imbued with that village-like charm. Getting to the Prince of Wales is fairly easy despite the area’s village feel. If you’re using public transport, the closest Tube station is Highgate Station (Northern Line), which is about a 10-minute walk away (granted, it’s a scenic but uphill walk through the charming streets – alternatively, a quick bus ride can zip you up the hill). Archway Station (also Northern Line) is another option, roughly a 15-minute walk down Highgate Hill and up again – manageable for the more energetic, but there are also buses if you prefer. Speaking of buses, several bus routes serve Highgate Village directly. Notably the 143 and 210 buses stop virtually outside the pub’s door, connecting Highgate to areas like Archway, East Finchley, Golders Green, and more. Additionally, the 263 route runs up to the village (having replaced the old 271) and also stops nearby. If you’re coming from central London, you might find it a pleasant change to hop on a bus and watch the city give way to leafy lanes as you approach Highgate. Once you’re here, you won’t need a car – in fact, as mentioned earlier, parking is scarce on these old streets (there are a few pay-and-display spots and some residential streets further out where you might manage to park, but public transport or a taxi is generally the wiser choice). The lack of traffic bustle adds to the area’s tranquil vibe. Highgate is well-known as a heritage conservation area, and as you approach the Prince of Wales, you’ll likely notice the handsome exterior of the pub and its neighbouring buildings. The pub itself shares an architectural ensemble with other historic structures – it even adjoins a listed old bank building next door. The whole setting primes you for a somewhat “step back in time” experience before you’ve even ordered your first drink.

For anyone making a trip to the Prince of Wales, it’s worth making time to explore the nearby attractions that Highgate offers, turning your pub visit into a broader day out. Just a few minutes’ walk from the pub is the famous Highgate Cemetery, one of London’s most iconic and atmospheric cemeteries, known for its Victorian gothic tombs and as the resting place of notable figures like Karl Marx and George Eliot. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, a stroll through the ivy-laden pathways of Highgate Cemetery (especially the West Cemetery tour) is a memorable experience. Also adjacent to the cemetery is Waterlow Park, a beautiful parkland donated to the public in the 19th century – it’s perfect for a leisurely walk, with ponds, landscaped gardens, and sweeping views over the city. On a nice day, you might grab a takeaway pint or soft drink from the Prince of Wales and wander to Pond Square or the park to enjoy it outdoors (just be mindful of public drinking rules). Highgate Wood and the expansive Hampstead Heath are a bit further afield (about a 20–30 minute walk or a short bus ride), but if you’re up for it, they offer more green escapes and viewpoints (the famous Parliament Hill viewpoint on the Heath isn’t too far, offering panoramic vistas of London’s skyline). Culture-wise, Highgate has a rich literary and theatrical history – for instance, just down the road is the Gatehouse pub, which hosts a small upstairs theatre, and around the corner you’ll find the former home of the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge (marked with a plaque). The Flask pub, another historic inn famed for its clientele and ghost stories, is a short walk away – but as some will tell you, the Prince of Wales tends to be less touristy and more authentically local than those more famous spots. If you fancy a bit of shopping, the High Street offers some charming antique shops, a handful of indie boutiques, and cosy tea rooms for an afternoon cake. In terms of practical amenities, there are convenience stores and ATMs on the High Street as well, should you need to grab cash (though the pub does take cards). All told, the location of the Prince of Wales is one of its perks – you’re in a picturesque village enclave of London with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re making a special journey to Highgate or just popping by as a local, the surrounding area provides a delightful backdrop to your pub visit. The combination of historic sights, green spaces, and that village atmosphere will likely charm you as much as the pub itself does.

Overall Impression

The Prince of Wales in Highgate delivers a truly special London pub experience – one that marries historic charm with a vibrant community spirit. In an age of trendy gastropubs and commercial bar chains, the Prince of Wales stands out by staying true to itself and its neighbourhood. It’s the kind of place where tradition isn’t just a marketing phrase; you can feel it in the wooden beams and see it in the centuries-old facade, yet it’s paired with a very present-day sense of welcome and inclusivity. This pub encapsulates what a great local pub should be: a warm atmosphere, quality drinks and food, and a space where relationships form and memories are made. Whether you’re savouring one of their excellent real ales or biting into a slice of that famed pizza, you get the sense that you’re experiencing a beloved slice of Highgate’s culture. The pub’s long history (over a century and a half in its current incarnation, and a building that dates even further back) adds an intangible magic – it’s not just a watering hole, it’s a living piece of local heritage. Yet, for all its historic bona fides, the Prince of Wales is very much alive and kicking as a modern community hub: the laughter of the quiz night, the clink of glasses among friends, the landlord chatting with patrons about the latest local happenings. It manages to be both a refuge of old-world comfort and a lively meeting spot for today’s residents. Many who visit end up calling it their favourite pub in North London, and it’s easy to see why. It’s authentic, it’s friendly, and it leaves you with that contented feeling of having discovered a hidden gem (even though it’s quite popular, it still feels like a gem).

Of course, no pub is without its minor quirks, and the Prince of Wales has a few – though for most, these are easily overshadowed by the positives. The lack of live sports or gaming gadgets might be a downside if you’re specifically seeking a sports-bar experience or a pub with pool tables; fans of those will have to get their fix elsewhere. Similarly, the absence of on-site parking could pose a slight inconvenience for those driving in from afar, and on a rainy night you might wish you didn’t have to hunt for a parking spot or walk from the bus stop (the flip side is that its tucked-away nature keeps the area peaceful and reduces rowdy crowds). And yes, if you hit the pub at its busiest, you might find yourself in close quarters with fellow patrons, as the cosy size is part of the deal – not ideal for those who insist on plenty of personal space. However, these “drawbacks” are largely a matter of personal preference and planning. For the vast majority of visitors, the overall experience – the hearty ales, the delicious food, the camaraderie, and the sheer character of the place – far outweighs any inconvenience. In many ways, the Prince of Wales benefits from what it doesn’t have: by not turning into a sports venue or a gimmicky theme bar, it preserves the kind of pub atmosphere that’s increasingly hard to find. It’s a spot where you can actually talk to your friends, meet the locals, enjoy the present moment or delve into the history around you. In conclusion, the Prince of Wales is certainly worth a visit – be you a Londoner exploring a new neighbourhood or a traveller seeking an authentic pub experience. It offers a welcoming, memorable slice of Highgate Village life. Come for a pint or two, try the pizza, maybe join the quiz if you’re feeling brave, and soak in the vibe of a pub that genuinely cares about its patrons.