4
Nov,2025
Islington isn’t just another London neighborhood-it’s where the drinks are smart, the vibes are warm, and the girls rule the night.
If you’re looking for a night out that feels like a secret shared between friends, Islington delivers. No loud clubs, no overpriced shot bars, no waiting in line for three hours just to get a weak gin and tonic. Instead, you get cozy corners, expertly crafted cocktails, and food that actually tastes like it was made with care. This is where London’s best female-led nights happen-not because it’s trendy, but because it’s real.
Forget the usual suspects in Soho or Shoreditch. Islington’s charm lies in its quiet confidence. You won’t find neon signs flashing "LADIES NIGHT" with plastic tiaras. You’ll find bartenders who remember your name, chefs who source local produce, and spaces where you can talk without shouting. And yes, the cocktails? They’re the kind that make you pause mid-sip and think, "I need to come back here."
Where the cocktails feel like a love letter
At The American Bar on Upper Street, the cocktails aren’t just drinks-they’re stories. The menu changes monthly, but the signature Islington Mule stays. It’s a twist on the classic: house-made ginger syrup, cold-pressed lime, and a splash of elderflower liqueur, served in a chilled copper mug with a single blackberry resting on the rim. It’s sweet, spicy, and refreshing-perfect for a Friday after work when you just need to unwind.
Don’t miss The Clove Club’s hidden backroom bar, The Bar at The Clove Club. It’s not listed on Google Maps. You need to ask for it. Inside, you’ll find a 10-seat counter where the bartender hand-crushes herbs and infuses spirits overnight. Try the Smoke & Honey-mezcal, wildflower honey, smoked sea salt, and a drop of orange blossom water. It’s not on the menu. You have to ask. And when they bring it to you, they’ll tell you why they chose each ingredient. That’s the kind of detail that turns a drink into a memory.
For something lighter, head to The Old Man. It’s small, dimly lit, and feels like stepping into a 1920s library. Their Tea Time Negroni uses Earl Grey-infused gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, finished with a twist of lemon peel. It’s bitter, herbal, and elegant. Perfect for when you want to feel sophisticated without trying too hard.
Gastropubs where the food steals the show
Islington’s gastropubs don’t just serve drinks-they serve experiences. At The Prince of Wales, the menu reads like a love letter to British ingredients. Their Beef & Ale Pie comes with a flaky, buttery crust and slow-braised short rib that falls apart at the touch of a fork. Pair it with their Islington Pale Ale, brewed just down the road in Highbury. You won’t find this kind of comfort anywhere else in the city.
The Princess Victoria is where you go when you want to eat like you’re at a friend’s house-except their friend is a Michelin-starred chef. Their Truffle & Parmesan Fries are legendary. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, dusted with black truffle oil and aged parmesan. They come with a side of garlic aioli that’s so good, you’ll find yourself dipping everything else in it. And yes, the cocktails here are just as good as the food. The Spiced Pear Martini is made with pear vodka, rosemary syrup, and a pinch of cardamom. It’s warm, earthy, and perfect for autumn nights.
Don’t skip The Caledonian. It’s a classic pub turned modern gastropub, with a back garden that feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city. Their Goat Cheese & Beetroot Salad is a revelation-roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a balsamic reduction that’s been reduced for 12 hours. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget you’re even hungry for anything else.
Why Islington works for girls’ nights
Islington doesn’t force a vibe. It lets you find your own. There’s no pressure to dress up, no bouncers judging your outfit, no rowdy groups taking over the whole bar. The lighting is soft, the music is curated-not too loud, not too quiet-and the staff treats you like you belong.
Unlike other parts of London, where "girls night out" means a 3-hour queue and a £15 cocktail that’s mostly syrup, Islington offers value without the gimmicks. A cocktail here costs £12-£16. You get quality. You get attention. You get a space where you can laugh, talk, and just be.
It’s also walkable. You can hit three places in one night without needing a cab. Start with a cocktail at The American Bar, move to The Prince of Wales for dinner, then end at The Old Man for a nightcap. No Uber surge. No lost friends. Just good company and great drinks.
What to avoid in Islington
Not every bar in Islington is worth your time. Skip the places with "LADIES NIGHT" signs and plastic cocktail umbrellas. Avoid the pubs that turn into karaoke dens after 9 PM. And don’t waste your evening at chain spots like Wetherspoons or BrewDog-they don’t belong here.
Also, don’t assume everything is open late. Most places close by 1 AM on weekdays, and 2 AM on weekends. If you’re planning a late night, check ahead. The best spots don’t advertise-they just know when to turn the lights down and keep the music going.
Pro tips for your next night out
- Reserve a table at The Clove Club’s back bar at least 48 hours in advance. Walk-ins rarely get in.
- Ask for the bartender’s recommendation. They know what’s fresh, what’s seasonal, and what’s perfect for your mood.
- Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday. The crowds are thinner, the vibe is calmer, and you’ll get better service.
- Bring cash. Some of the best spots still prefer it-and you’ll avoid card fees.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking between spots, and the cobbles in Islington aren’t kind to heels.
What’s next after Islington?
Once you’ve nailed Islington, you’ll start noticing patterns. The best bars in London aren’t the biggest. They’re the ones that care about details. The ones where the bartender remembers your name. The ones where the food tastes like it was made for you, not for a menu.
After Islington, try the hidden speakeasies in Clerkenwell. Or the wine bars in Peckham. But come back here. Because Islington isn’t just a place-it’s a feeling. And once you’ve had a cocktail there, you’ll know exactly what that feels like.
Are Islington’s cocktail bars expensive?
Not compared to other London hotspots. Cocktails typically cost £12-£16, which is on par with quality bars in Shoreditch or Fitzrovia. You’re paying for craftsmanship, not branding. Most places use house-infused spirits, fresh juices, and seasonal ingredients-so you get real value.
Is Islington safe for girls at night?
Yes. Islington is one of London’s safest neighborhoods for nightlife. The streets are well-lit, there’s constant foot traffic even after dark, and most venues have trained staff who look out for guests. It’s common to see groups of women walking between bars without issue. Still, always trust your gut-stick to well-known spots, and avoid deserted side streets.
Do I need to dress up for Islington bars?
No. Islington’s vibe is smart-casual. Think jeans with a nice top, a little black dress, or tailored trousers with boots. You won’t be turned away for not wearing heels. The focus is on the experience, not the outfit. Overdressing might even make you stand out for the wrong reasons.
Can I get food at these cocktail bars?
Absolutely. Most of the top cocktail spots in Islington also serve excellent food. The American Bar has small plates like charcuterie and pickled vegetables. The Prince of Wales serves full gastropub meals. Even The Old Man offers snacks like spiced nuts and cheese boards. You can easily have a full dinner-and-drinks night without leaving the neighborhood.
What’s the best time to go?
Weeknights (Tuesday-Thursday) are ideal. You’ll get better service, quieter spaces, and a more relaxed crowd. Fridays and Saturdays are livelier but can get crowded after 8 PM. If you want a table at a popular spot, book ahead-even for a 7 PM reservation.
Final thought: It’s not about the drinks-it’s about the space
Islington doesn’t sell you a party. It sells you a moment. A moment where you can be loud, quiet, thoughtful, or silly-and no one will judge you for it. Where the bartender doesn’t rush you. Where the food tastes like it was made with love. Where the music plays just loud enough to fill the silence, but not loud enough to drown out your laughter.
That’s why girls keep coming back.
