Tapping the Admiral - Bar in London Borough of Camden

About the Vibe

Tapping the Admiral is a true north London institution that's been voted pub of the year four times (2013, 2015, 2018, 2023), and it's easy to see why. This is the kind of place where locals actually hang out, not just tourists passing through. The cask ales are consistently excellent, and if you're around on Wednesday nights, don't miss the pub quiz at 8:30pm - it's a proper community affair. Thursday brings traditional folk jam sessions with Whiskey Mick, which adds a nice musical touch to your evening.

Known For

•cask ales
•pub quiz on Wednesdays
•folk jam sessions on Thursdays
•multiple pub of the year awards

Best For

pub nightslive musicgroup gatherings

1 review

City InsidersEditorialApril 11, 2026

A North London Pub Gem

Tapping the Admiral is the kind of pub that makes you feel like you've stumbled upon something special. Having won north London pub of the year four times, it's clearly doing something right. The cask ale selection is genuinely impressive - they take their beer seriously and source the best from across the UK. What really sets this place apart is the community feel. Wednesday night pub quiz at 8:30pm is a proper local institution, and Thursday's folk jam sessions with Whiskey Mick add a wonderful musical element that you don't find everywhere.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a crowd that's mostly locals rather than tourists. If you're looking for a place to grab a drink and feel part of the neighborhood, this is it. They take reservations before 9pm if you want to secure a spot for a special occasion. The opening hours are generous too - open until midnight on weekdays and weekends. It's one of those pubs that feels like it's been here forever and will probably still be here forever.