The Kings, Islington, N1

The Kings Head (that appears to have been lopped off in the page title) is a pretty basic no thrills pub which has fortunately remained relatively unscathed from any fancy makeovers or trendy seating invasions. At the front is a small raised area with fireplace and window seats to gaze at the passing traffic and to the rear is an extended area with stone floors, some ancient looking exposed brickwork, dart board and jukebox. There are a few TVs dotted around geared towards sports and the piped radio music wasn't too intrusive. A spacious patio garden with gazebo caters for warmer days and smokers. The beer selection is unfortunately very mundane with no ales available on my recent trip (Pride clip was reversed) and just standard kegs / lagers. Prices appeared to be below the average for the area. The pubs lack of pretence and footie and darts approach give it a bit of a down market feel but in places like Islington it can be a breath of fresh air among a tide of ubiquitous chain pubs and lounge bars. When I worked in the area several years ago I only gave the Kings Head the occasional fleeting visit and whilst there isn't anything adverse about the place, there are far better pubs around if you know where to look.

This is a decent boozer with a dartboard, TVs and a projector screen for showing Sky Sports. It is not the biggest pub, but there is a small decked area out the back. There is a standard draught selection available alongside Pride, although there are another two unused hand pumps. I found the barman to be extremely friendly and my Guinness was good so I would return if in the area again.