The Clissold Arms, a historic pub in Muswell Hill with deep ties to rock band The Kinks, has been named London's best family pub of the year at the Great British Pub Awards held in Leeds. The Fortis Green establishment, which dates back to 1850, also earned the title of best community pub in London in 2025, marking its second major accolade in recent years.
Judges Praise Community Spirit and Family Focus
Judges at the awards highlighted how the pub's landlords have built a strong reputation for community spirit and a family-friendly atmosphere. The pub regularly hosts a variety of events designed to bring the community together, including themed children's events for Christmas, Halloween, and Easter. It also hires out its three private function rooms for family occasions and supports local school fundraisers.
The gastropub, which serves Mediterranean cuisine, provides space for buggies, baby-changing facilities, high chairs, and personalised colouring kits for young guests. Twice a month, the pub organises free arts and crafts workshops for children. This year, it also launched a Family Swap Shop, where children can exchange outgrown books and toys.
Health Awareness and Charity Support
The landlords also host and back events to raise awareness for health issues and sponsor a local charity, the Chris Harmanda Foundation Christmas Blue Jean Bash. They offer a venue for a sit-down three-course dinner with live music as part of the charity's fundraising efforts.
Beyond family-focused activities, The Clissold Arms hosts quiz and comedy nights, live jazz performances, book launches, wine tastings, sip and paint events, chess and backgammon evenings, and choir gatherings. Upcoming events include a George Michael Live Tribute on September 30, The Amalgama Greek Folk Music on October 9, and an Autumn Wine Tasting on October 14.
A Historic Venue with Rock-and-Roll Roots
The Victorian pub is also known as the birthplace of '60s band The Kinks. Future rock legends Ray and Dave Davies grew up in Denmark Terrace directly opposite the pub. Their father was a regular patron, and when the siblings were ready to play their first live performance in 1960, the pub was the obvious location.
In 2006, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) awarded The Clissold Arms a Pubs in Time plaque commemorating its place in rock-and-roll history. The pub features a dedicated "Kinks Room" filled with band memorabilia, signed vinyl, and photographs.
To celebrate its latest award, the pub hosted a party featuring kids' entertainment, professional face painting, a DJ, and complimentary champagne and homemade dessert. For more information on upcoming events, visit the pub's website at www.clissoldarms.co.uk.
