The Highbury Barn Tavern has long been a spot where football fans can stop in for a pre-match pint on their way to the Emirates Stadium.
Now, owner Urban Pubs and Bars has announced it will reopen on July 17 following a £500,000 overhaul that includes upgraded bar and dining areas, a newly built back bar, and refreshed outdoor seating.
Managers have paid tribute to its past as a Victorian ale and cake house – and retained the character of the original bar – while improving the facilities.
The Tavern takes its name from Highbury Barn, which started as a tea garden in 1740.
By the 1850s it had evolved into a popular venue with a 4,000 foot dancing platform lit by gas globes, and a cake and ale house where Londoners liked to drink milk still warm from the cow, and eat custards and cakes dipped in cream.
Highbury Barn grew into a tavern with a tea-garden, hop plantation, brewery and bowling green, with space for 1500 guests. It closed in 1871, but a pub was built on part of the site in 1885, and today it can fit 200 guests with 100 people in the bar, a 60-seat dining room, and a 40-person snug.
The relaunch will focus on food served by head chef Sara O’Neil – formerly the sous chef at The Gatehouse in Highgate.
She will offer a menu shaped by local Highbury suppliers, including award-winning butchers Godfreys and cheesemonger La Fromagerie, offering modern pub classics alongside desserts inspired by the venue’s Victorian roots, such as vanilla set custard with poached apricots, and a cheeseboard.
The Tavern will also focus on neighbourhood-friendly gatherings and social events.
On Monday there’s a ‘bring your own’ wine when you dine, with 10% off bottles from merchant Highbury Wines.
Thursday is oyster night, while Saturday will focus on sports and food with big screen action and a match-day menu.
Sunday is all about roasts served from 12pm to 9pm, including Suffolk slow-roast leg of lamb to share and aged Hereford sirloin of beef, followed by the weekly pub quiz from 7.30pm.
Families will find a welcoming atmosphere as a natural spot for weekend lunches or relaxed dinners.
Match days remain a major draw as a destination for Gunners’ supporters, with takeaway pints, screens, and a buzzing pre- and post-game atmosphere.
Chris Hill, managing director of Urban Pubs and Bars, said: “Highbury Barn Tavern is one of the area’s most historic pubs, and we’re proud to be investing in its future.
“With a refreshed design, a food-led approach championing local producers, and a warm welcome for both families and football fans, we’re excited to open our doors again this July.”
The Highbury Barn Tavern will be open seven days a week, with a reopening celebration on Friday July 25.
