The Gatehouse, Highgate, N6

A very stunning looking inn perched on the top of Highgate Hill. A welcoming site if you've walked up from the Archway. A comfortable place fully carpeted and good decor, I enjoyed the curry night washed down with some flavoursome Fullers. Might get the bus up next time.

This is a Wetherspoons so the ale choice, food deals and availability are exactly what you would expect, although ale prices are (inevitably) higher than what I pay in my Raynes Park local ‘spoons. It’s clearly an original pub from before its JDW days, and although large by normal pub standards, it retains a lot of pub character that is often lacking in Wetherspoons pubs. Inside it’s quite comfortable. There’s plenty of wood panelling, but otherwise the type of decor (black white photos of the area) and furnishings are the JDW norm. A fire was ablaze, with the obligatory couple of armchairs in front of it. But what I particularly liked was the separate dining area, in a lower level, completely wood panelled room at the back. By ‘spoons standards, this was generally more attractive area in which to eat than is usually the case. All in all this is a pretty decent ‘spoons. It does what it says on the tin, but overall I would say that this one is a lot better than most.

Randomness Guide to London - Gatehouse entry

Randomness Guide to London - Gatehouse entry

This is one of my favourite Wetherspoon Pubs Its a very good run Wetherspoons The tables are always cleaned & cleared of clutter almost as soon as customers are finished. Plus theres a very good choice of Real Ales on tap that are always in excellent condition whenever Ive been in. The Service and Staff seem very good as well and you cant fault the cost or value for money I would have no problem recommending this Pub to others.

I'm not a massive Whetherspoons fan, but this is a great pub with excellent food. It does have an advantage over most spoons pubs with its location in affluent Highgate, but the friendly staff actually made an effort to be hospitable and the place was spotless. A mixed grill in London for just over 8 quid would normally fill me with visions of vomiting and diarrhoea, but it was great and I would recommend it. This is the best spoons pub I have been in!