The Rochester Castle, Stoke Newington

Typical huge Wetherspoons pub really. Bit grimy and dirty around the edges. Was there last night and the service was painfully slow. It would have been quicker to get a drink by raising the Titanic and seeing if there were any left in the saloon. Nice little suntrap of a beer garden though, although it's not particularly huge. Interesting mix of customers too, not just your stereotypical Wetherspoons regulars.

17 Jun 2008 15:05

The Birdcage, Stoke Newington

Nice pub, but as others have commented, it is a bit on the pricey side. The bar staff are friendly, although the manager seems a bit on the surly side, but perhaps it was just an 'off night'. Nice atmosphere with some quiet corners for more intimate conversations. The music quiz on a Tuesday is good fun and Mel the quiz mistress does an excellent job with it. Just wish we'd win it once in a while.

18 May 2008 15:23

Auld Shillelagh, Stoke Newington

Great little pub, and I mean little!! It does stretch back a bit. Lovely panelled interior, great beers, friendly and efficient bar staff, various football matches on different screens, and fantastic beer garden. You really can't lose.

10 May 2008 15:52

Jolly Butchers, Stoke Newington

Not a pub where you would start your night, but a good one to finish it in. Have had some dodgy and some great nights out in this pub. It seems to be a melting pot of Stokey society. Straight, gay, lesbian, and all that's in between, gravitate here after all the other bars in the area have called time. The bar staff are really friendly (especially Stella) and attentive. You don't have to wait too long to get served AND they remember your round. On the downside, the DJ is a bit crap - fills the floor one minute and empties it the next. That aside, it might be rough around the edges, but it's got a lively and lovely crowd of regulars, and the landlord John does a good job to ensure that everyone has a great time.

10 May 2008 15:45