The Arsenal matchday experience is far more than the 90 minutes on the pitch. In the surroundings of Islington, you can find a vibrant pub scene full to the brim with Gooners in north London.
Whether you are looking for a cosy spot to watch the game or a more lively atmosphere for a pint before heading to Emirates Stadium, the local Arsenal pubs have something for everyone.
Many vintage Arsenal pubs, such as The Coronet, have closed over the years. But there are still plenty of options for Gunners fans from far or near. But some pubs in and around Emirates Stadium may require an Arsenal membership or a matchday ticket to enter.
Yet even if you don’t have a ticket to attend the game, Arsenal fans are usually able to enjoy the action on a big screen at one of the many pubs below…
READ MORE: Top 10 hotels near Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, according to Tripadvisor
The Twelve Pins
- Name: The Twelve Pins
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 0.7 miles (approximately 14 minute walk)
- Address: 263 Seven Sisters Road, Finsbury Park, N4 2DE
The Twelve Pins, located near Finsbury Park station, is one of the essential stops for any Arsenal fan heading to a game at Emirates Stadium.
It is a typical Irish pub which serves one of the best pints of Guinness in north London and is known for its warm atmosphere with a spacious multi-screen setup. So, it is never hard to catch a glimpse of the latest action amid a sea of Gooners.
However, due to its prime location next to the station, it can sometimes get quite busy on matchdays.
Bank of Friendship
- Name: Bank of Friendship
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 0.6 miles (approximately 12 minute walk)
- Address: 226 Blackstock Road, Highbury, N5 1EA
In the heart of Highbury, the Bank of Friendship pub has kept its doors open to Arsenal fans since the mid-1800s. The name is derived from its early origins when it served as a gathering place for members of cooperative societies to discuss business matters, social issues and community initiatives.
To this day, the pub prides itself on offering a friendly service. While it is not an official Arsenal supporters pub, it has become one that is loved by many fans – especially on matchdays thanks to its convenient beer garden.
The Famous Cock
- Name: The Famous Cock
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 0.7 miles (approximately 15 minute walk)
- Address: 259 Upper St, Islington, N1 1RU
If it’s a lively football pub that you’re after, Arsenal fans should look no further than The Famous Cock. Even if it’s not a matchday, the pub has become one of the go-to spots to watch football in the area thanks to having multiple giant screens.
Located near Highbury & Islington tube station, it also boasts a spacious outdoor backyard area, pub grub and a great selection of beers.
Tollington Arms
- Name: Tollington Arms
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 410m (approximately six minute walk)
- Address: 115 Hornsey Road, Holloway, N7 6DN
Voted as the Best Arsenal Pub for 2014/15 by Gooner readers, The Tollington Arms is one of the most well-known bars for Gunners supporters. With eight colossal screens, you won’t miss a second of the action in the sports pub that has been a fixture in the area since the 19th century.
Many Arsenal legends have been pictured at The Tollington Arms, such as Martin Keown and Ian Wright. Even Rob Holding once filmed a campaign in collaboration with the pub as part of an Arsenal Supporting Supporters initiative.
The Plimsoll
- Name: The Plimsoll
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 0.5 miles (approximately 10 minute walk)
- Address: 52 St. Thomas’s Road, Finsbury Park, N4 2QQ
Down a side road in Finsbury Park, you will find The Plimsoll – a modern pub that Arsenal fans have been going to for years and years. It is a perfect spot to hang out at before a game with the pub located halfway between Emirates Stadium and Finsbury Park station.
It was once known as the Auld Triangle, which was an Irish pub and a regular matchday haunt. Under new owners, The Plimsoll now focuses on serving food and has become home to one of the best cheeseburgers in London.
The Faltering Fullback
- Name: The Faltering Fullback
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 1 mile (approximately 20 minute walk)
- Address: 19 Perth Road, Finsbury Park, N4 3HB
Located a bit further away from Emirates Stadium than the rest of the pubs on this list, The Faltering Fullback is still well worth paying a visit to during your Arsenal matchday experience.
With its multi-level layout and warm atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many Gooners make it their local.
There is vintage memorabilia inside the venue but what really sets the pub apart is its expansive beer garden hidden away towards the back of the pub.
The Gunners Pub
- Name: The Gunners Pub
- Distance to Emirates Stadium: 0.5 miles (approximately 10 minute walk)
- Address: 204 Blackstock Road, Highbury, N5 1EN
If it’s Arsenal memorabilia that you are looking for, look no further than The Gunners Pub. Adorned on the walls are as many red and white shirts and posters as you could wish to feast your eyes upon. It provides a truly memorable pub experience and is just like an Arsenal museum.
The comparisons to a museum end there, though, as fans should not expect a quiet pint on matchdays. It is filled with passionate Arsenal supporters who make their voices heard in the hours before kick-off.
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