Prince of Wales

In a city where trendy bars seem to multiply like Instagram influencers, the Prince of Wales in London stands as a refreshing reminder that some things just get better with age. Tucked away in Highgate, this isn't just another London pub trying to convince you that exposed Edison bulbs and deconstructed gin cocktails are the height of sophistication. No, the Prince of Wales has something far more valuable: authenticity that you can't fake with a Pinterest mood board.

The moment you cross the threshold, you realize this place has mastered the art of being simultaneously traditional and effortlessly cool - like that one friend who can pull off vintage clothes without looking like they're headed to a costume party. The interior walks that perfect line between classic pub charm and contemporary comfort, with wood-paneled walls that could tell a thousand stories (if only they could talk, though given enough pints, you might think they do).

Here's where things get interesting: while most London pubs have surrendered to the gastropub revolution, trading their souls for small plates and artisanal sourdough, the Prince of Wales keeps it refreshingly real. The beer selection is nothing short of magnificent, with perfectly kept pints of Adnams Ghost Ship and Timothy Taylor's that would bring a tear to a beer enthusiast's eye. The staff, led by the legendary Harry (who's achieved near-mythical status among regulars), treat these brews with the reverence they deserve.

Speaking of Harry and the team, they're the kind of publicans who remember your name and your usual order, but won't judge you for trying something different. There's a story floating around about Harry helping orchestrate the perfect proposal for a couple - the kind of above-and-beyond service that makes this place feel more like a community center than just another boozer.

The atmosphere here is something special. During quiet afternoons, sunlight streams through the windows, creating the perfect spot for a leisurely pint and a good book. As evening approaches, the pub takes on a different character. The carefully curated playlist hits that sweet spot between classic and current - not your dad's pub music, but also not trying to be the next Shoreditch hotspot. It's the kind of place where you might find yourself in an impromptu conversation about obscure British history with a stranger, or debating the merits of different hop varieties with a surprisingly knowledgeable regular.

The outdoor seating area is a particular triumph, offering a perfect vantage point for people-watching while enjoying London's famously unpredictable weather. Dog owners, take note: your four-legged friends are more than welcome here, and they might even get more attention than you do. The pub's resident dog lovers among the staff keep a steady supply of treats behind the bar - just don't tell your pup or they'll never want to walk past without stopping in.

What really sets the Prince of Wales apart from London's endless parade of pubs is its steadfast refusal to chase trends. While the prices remain remarkably reasonable for London (especially considering the premium quality of their drinks), they've maintained high standards without succumbing to the pressure to reinvent themselves every six months. The payment options are thoroughly modern (they accept everything from cash to contactless), but the spirit of the traditional British pub remains gloriously intact.

This is a pub that understands its role in the community. It's where locals gather to celebrate victories, drown sorrows, or simply escape the chaos of London life for a few hours. The regulars are a diverse bunch - from old-timers who've been propping up the bar since before Instagram was invented, to young professionals who appreciate a proper pint in an age of craft beer hysteria.

Here's my advice: visit the Prince of Wales in London when you're ready to experience a pub that's confident enough in its own skin to just be itself. Come on a quiet Tuesday evening or a buzzing Saturday night. Bring your friends, bring your dog, bring that relative visiting from abroad who wants to experience a "proper London pub." Just don't expect any deconstructed anything - and trust me, that's exactly how it should be.