The Tollington Arms - Islington

I am disappointed to write this review of The Tollington, as I have had positive experiences there before, such as watching the Lionesses win the Euros with a great atmosphere and friendly people. However, my recent visit to watch the netball World Cup semifinals with friends after reserving a space was not the same. Initially, the atmosphere was fine until the landlady appeared. She was rude and had a sour expression on her face. She even went as far as approaching my friend's 6-year-old son, who has additional needs, and telling him to be quiet and stop cheering. It was absurd for her to target a child and not address the adults he was with. Additionally, considering the pub hosts Arsenal games regularly with much louder noise levels, it was hypocritical for her to complain about a child's excitement. To make matters worse, she turned down the volume so we couldn't hear the commentary in the last quarter, claiming she had a migraine. It raised the question of why she was in the pub in the first place if she couldn't handle the noise. She attempted to blame older gentlemen for the complaints, but one of them actually approached us to ask about the game and stated they were not bothered by the noise, pinning the issue on the landlady.

I have been a customer of this restaurant for years, but was recently unable to pay using Scottish banknotes. It's no surprise that the Scots desire independence if this is the treatment they receive in England.

It is a good bar to visit on match days. The pints come in plastic but they are some of the best you can get when Arsenal are playing at home. The staff are friendly and I'm always amazed how I can get served so quickly in a crowded bar. There are giant TV s to show previews of the match.

Followed the crowd to find this gem for a pre match pint or 3. Friendly and helpful door staff, efficient and courteous bar staff, normal pub prices which is a bonus. Heated outdoor smoking area, ample TVs around the rooms, didn’t sample the food but it did look and smell amazing. Will happily return here on our next visit. Thanks for having us.

Only a five minute walk from the armoury (the south-west of the stadium). Decent selection of beers on tap, sky sports on the monitor. Even some craft beee offerings like Camden helles