Chandos Arms

The Chandos Arms in London is what happens when a proper British pub gets a mischievous makeover while keeping its soul firmly intact. Nestled in the heart of North London, this isn't just another watering hole – it's the kind of place where the beer glasses come properly frosted (because warm pints are a crime against humanity), and even the local cats seem to have their own barstools.

Let's be honest: London has more pubs than the Thames has fish, but there's something wonderfully different about the Chandos Arms. Maybe it's the way the evening sun streams through the windows, turning every pint into liquid gold, or perhaps it's the eclectic mix of locals who've been treating this place as their second living room since before Instagram was invented. The reasonably priced drinks menu hits that sweet spot between "I can afford another round" and "This definitely isn't dishwater."

Walk in on any given evening, and you'll find yourself wrapped in the warm embrace of proper pub atmosphere – think exposed wooden beams that have witnessed decades of tall tales, and walls that could probably write a bestseller about the characters they've observed. The staff here have mastered that rare art of making everyone feel like a regular, even if it's your first time through the door. And speaking of regulars, keep an eye out for the pub's unofficial mascot – a particularly discerning local cat who occasionally saunters in like they own the place (and honestly, they might).

The entertainment here is where things get interesting. Forget your typical pub quiz (though they do those too) – the Chandos Arms in London has earned a reputation for their "naughty bingo" nights that have even the most serious professionals howling with laughter. Live music fills the space on select evenings, ranging from local acoustic sets to bands that make you wonder why they're not playing bigger venues yet. The sound system is perfectly balanced so you can still hear yourself think – or more importantly, order another round.

What really sets this place apart is its commitment to being genuinely welcoming rather than just paying lip service to it. The outdoor seating area transforms into a sun-trapped paradise during London's precious warm days, while the interior maintains that perfect balance between cozy and spacious. Dogs aren't just allowed; they're treated like VIP guests, often receiving more attention than their owners.

The drink selection deserves its own paragraph of praise. The beer lines are maintained with religious devotion, and those aforementioned frozen glasses aren't just for show – they're part of a larger philosophy that good drinks deserve proper service. Their cocktail game is surprisingly strong for a traditional pub, with a two-for-one deal that makes happy hour actually happy. The wine list won't win any awards, but it's thoughtfully chosen and fairly priced, perfect for those who prefer grape to grain.

For sports fans, the Chandos Arms strikes that perfect balance between being a great place to watch the match without becoming a sports bar. The strategically placed screens mean you won't miss a crucial moment, but they don't dominate the atmosphere. During big games, the energy is electric but never overwhelming – exactly what you want from a proper London pub.

Getting there is straightforward enough, and the free street parking is a bonus that shouldn't be overlooked in a city where parking spots are rarer than affordable housing. The pub accepts all major forms of payment (including contactless), which is particularly handy when someone inevitably suggests "just one more round."

Beyond the physical space, it's the intangible elements that make the Chandos Arms special – the way conversations flow freely between strangers, how the staff remember your usual order, and that indefinable feeling that you're somewhere authentic in a city that sometimes feels overrun with chains and tourist traps.

Listen, if you're looking for a proper London pub experience without the tourist crowds or inflated Zone 1 prices, the Chandos Arms is your spot. Bring your mates, bring your dog, bring your out-of-town visitors who want to see "the real London." Just don't bring your expectations of a typical pub – this place has its own playbook, and that's exactly why we love it.