In a year where London has seen more public houses close than open, the launch of a standout new boozer is a genuine cause for celebration. That accolade for 2025 goes to The Pocket in Islington, which has been crowned the capital's best new pub by the editors of Time Out.
A Rare Gem in a Challenging Landscape
The recognition carries significant weight, as The Pocket was the only newly opened establishment to secure a spot on Time Out's recently updated list of the 50 greatest pubs in London. This made it the undisputed frontrunner for the title of the year's top newcomer. The pub's success shines a light on the difficult climate for the traditional London pub, where closures often outnumber new openings.
What Makes The Pocket Special?
Located at 25 Canonbury Lane, N1 2AS, The Pocket opened its doors in March 2025 on the site of a long-shut bar formerly known as the Four Sisters pub. The venture is run by publican Pete Holt, who also operates the beloved Southampton Arms in Highgate—a venue that also features in the top 50 pubs ranking.
Housed in a former carriage house, The Pocket champions a refreshingly simple and traditional ethos. Its premise, as celebrated in Time Out's five-star review, is straightforward: "No reservations. No green food. No shit beer. No terrible modern music." The focus is firmly on quality staples.
The bar offers a selection of local ales and ciders, with beer priced according to strength—a policy that commendably allows for a London pint to be found for around a fiver. The food menu is unapologetically classic, featuring scotch eggs, sausage rolls, pasties, and pork pies. Ambience is provided by a piano, which hosts regular music afternoons and evenings, and a vinyl record player spinning vintage jazz and soul records.
A Winning Formula for London Drinkers
The Pocket's success story demonstrates a clear appetite among Londoners for pubs that prioritise core values: well-kept, reasonably priced drinks, hearty snacks, and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere with live music. By carving out this niche, The Pocket has not only become a beloved local in Islington but has also been recognised as a beacon of hope for the future of the traditional London pub scene. Its inclusion in a prestigious list of longstanding favourites proves that a back-to-basics approach, executed with care and passion, can resonate powerfully in a modern city.
