The Arnos Arms, Arnos Grove, N11

Adjacent to Charles Holden’s striking tube station (though not as striking as nearby Southgate), this pub was built for Charrington’s in the 1930s, when the area was developed; exceptionally rare for London, there are two fine Bass lanterns to the fascia (see photos). Externally, this is a handsome brewers’ Tudor beast and it’s clear that the place has had a very recent makeover: a bit steam punk; a bit industrial. All that seemed to remain that was original was the herringbone parquet floor. Now it has a bar back with patterned tiles and scaffold shelving, grey paint where applicable, exposed modern wood, trendy prints and modern light fittings illuminating mixed local customers. At least there were three cask offerings: Pride, Landlord and something more interesting in the form of Vocation’s Heart & Soul, £2.90 a half and not bad, served by a smiley barman. This place is tolerable, but if in N11, I’d prefer the Ranelagh hands down.

No longer a Harvester. No idea when it changed but it now independently owned. Exterior has changed that significantly from the other photos here, I had to check the map to make sure I was getting the correct pub! The front proclaims Craft Beer and in a open plan, air conditioned bar, there was a screen detailing the keg and at least 4 cask - including a Timothy Taylor Landlord. With the sun shining, I went for a keg Lost and grounded Helles. £6.50. There was plenty of other options - too many to list. A pleasant visit - and dead handy for the tube to whisk me back to town.