PUB CRAWLS

February 28, 2014 by: Sunny London

St Albans Market, Sun and Stinking Bishop Cheese

On Wednesday, Mr. Sunny and I ventured to the St Albans Market to enjoy sun and fun in this beautiful Hertfordshire town. To save money and to enjoy the pubs responsibly, we caught the 84 bus outside our flat and rode it to St Albans.

Aside from High Street shops and restaurants, like Sweaty Betty, Reiss and Bill’s, there’s the traditional St Albans Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which is open from early morning until 4:30pm. It’s a great way to spend a sunny day!

With over 160 stalls, you can buy just about anything, including my favorite…. glorious, glorious, CHEESE!

In fact, Mr. Sunny introduced me to a new one that day. Have you ever had this?

I haven’t either. He purchased it, under the condition that he would keep it tightly wrapped on the bus ride home, so as not to bother or embarrass me. I still haven’t tried it. It’s quarantined in my in-laws refrigerator.

You can also purchase fish at the St Albans Market. Just as I snapped the above picture for you, the vendor asked the woman purchasing her fish if she wanted it “with the head on or off”. You would think this Florida girl could handle that. NOPE! I took off running! Luckily there was a luxurious spa just around the corner.

23 Market Pl, St Albans AL3 5DP

Once I had inhaled a proper dose of calming ingredients, I ventured back outside to meet Mr. Sunny. Since it was nearly 1pm, we decided to hit our first pub, The White Swan.

Don’t you just love their philosophy above the door? “Life is too important to be taken seriously.”

1 Upper Dagnall St, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 5EA

We ordered our standards, one beer and one red wine and enjoyed this traditional Irish pub.

Next, we ventured up the street and debated between these two pubs.

23 Market Pl, St Albans AL3 5DP

Since Mr Sunny is the beer connoisseur, he chose to strut his stuff in The Cock Inn, much to my chagrin.

I was pretty mortified about this experience, but I managed to cope by having another glass of red wine.

Next we spent a few minutes walking around the St Albans Cathedral, which had its beginnings around 1077. You can enter for free, but a small donation is suggested. They also offer guided tours.

Finally, we feasted at a highly recommended gastropub, the Peahen.

14 London Rd, St Albans, Herts AL1 1NG

We shared 3 starters.

Sticky Sausages (glazed in honey, mustard and rosemary, served with a mustard mayo dip), Homemade Scotch Egg with pork and herb brown sauce, Pate Kilner (chicken liver pate and clarified butter with tomato chutney and toast)

And, we enjoyed these entrees…

Salmon and Smoked Haddock Fishcake with parsley potatoes, wilted spinach and salsa verde

Sirloin Steak, 8oz sirloin steak with a grilled tomato, mushroom and fries

Mr. Sunny’s friend who lives in St. Albans also informed us that the Peahen does a fabulous brunch.

Visiting, the St. Albans Market is an excellent activity for a Sunny in London day. It started back in the 9^th century and according to their website, 60%of the traders have been there for 20 years or more.

Also, in St. Albans, you can visit Butterfly World, the Verulamium Museum, and the Roman Theatre. I’d love to hear about them if you go. And, if you’re a fan of Sinking Bishop cheese, I have some you can pick up… FOR FREE! HA!

April 6, 2014 by: Sunny London

The Mr. Sunny in London Pub Crawl- “Avoiding Selfridges”

It’s no secret that Mr. Sunny designs every London Pub Crawl I write. He takes great pride in the research, and… he does a damn fine job. He just asks to be paid in beer. 😉

Our most recent pub crawl was completely impromptu. We had a dinner reservation in the St. Christopher’s area and were early. We popped in to the Lamb and Flag on James Street for our standard small vino and Stella.

Mr. Sunny grabbed our liquid sunshine from the bar, sat down and declared, “Sweetheart, you have no idea how many hours I’ve spent in here, while you were over there,” and he pointed down the street.

I had no idea what he meant.

He then explained that he knew the pubs surrounding Selfridges all too well.

We struck a deal years ago that he would “shop” with me as long as it included ample pub time for him. (Ok, ladies, I’m sure you appreciate my genius right about now. It’s a win-win for ME!)

Shop. Drink. Shop. Drink.

That’s how we roll.

Anyhow, here’s a quick shot of the Lamb and Flag interior.

We finished our round, and Mr. Sunny decided he’d take me on a quick tour of his other go-to shopping safe zones.

Next is the Henry Holland on 39 Duke Street. It’s literally across from the department store.

Mr. Sunny says this is “The REAL Selfridges Men’s Waiting Room.”

This pub has a great deal of character both inside and out.

Mr. Sunny and I love it, and we feel it’s a bit friendlier than the Lamb and Flag.

Although, while we were there an ambulance drove by with its sirens blaring. Mr. Sunny whispered to me, “I always get worried when that happens because I think some poor bloke around here just got the shopping bill from his Mrs.”

He’s such a comedian.

We had another round of drinks and then headed to Mr. Sunny’s favourite…

The Devonshire Arms is the furthest from Selfridges and is located on 7 Duke Street.

We are officially declaring this pub the WINNER!

So, ladies, if you fancy bringing your man shopping for the day, maybe you can entice him with the Mr Sunny in London Pub Crawl- “Avoiding Selfridges”?

Fellas, keep this list handy in the event your ray of loving sunshine wants to drag you out for a “fun” day of sleeve pulling and shoe gawking. You can thank me later.

December 19, 2013 by: Sunny London

GUEST POST: London Winter Pub Guide!

London has some of the best pubs in the world, perfect for enjoying a pint and keeping warm this Christmas. Why not spend a Sunday relaxing with friends, over a glass of mulled wine and a roast lunch; or just venture down and stretch out in front of the fire with the day’s papers?

Craft Beer Company, Clerkenwell

This amazing specialist boutique pub serves a range of real ales and specialist lagers, spread over two floors. Ornate mirrors decorate the walls, with stained glass windows and a sparkling central chandelier providing a really intimate, Christmassy feel.

While the food is basic, you can find delightful British snacks like pork pies and scotch eggs. The beers are undoubtedly the main attraction, providing one of the largest selections in London.

A total of 37 beers, with 16 sourced solely from domestic artisan ale makers, provide the freshest and tastiest brews in London.

The Craft Beer Co: 82 Leather Ln, London EC1N 7TR

Auld Shillelagh, Stamford Hill

For jolly old evenings with Irish music, played by a boozy orchestra of banjos, flutes and piccolos, Auld Shillelagh is a real joy, particularly after a few glasses of red wine.

You can soak up the joyful, unaffected atmosphere with friends, enjoying the company of gregarious bar staff who do their best to make your evening a pleasure.

For the best evening, catch a pub quiz over a few Guinesses; their menu is unfussy and simplistic, which is often the best way.

Auld Shillelagh: 105 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UD

Southampton Arms, Highgate Road

A sign outside reads ‘Ales, cider, meat’ and it couldn’t be any simpler at the Southampton Arms. You can buy a roast pork bap with crackling and apple sauce for £3.90, served with a pint of cloudy cider. There’s a thick coal fire, old white tiled walls and period decor, giving this boozer a real wartime feel.

Venture outside for a cigar on their intimate brick floor garden, with your jacket on of course; this boozer is unfussy and full of character, just as English pubs should be.

Southampton Arms: 139 Highgate Rd, London NW5 1LE

The Zeitgeist, Lambeth

Many Brits will be hard-pushed to admit it, but the Germans really do make the best beers, so it’s only fair that you stop by at their best boozer for a ‘wunder-bar’ time. This pub is so authentic it could have been dropped here from Berlin, with highly-efficient Deutsche staff, steely German football and strong, heavyweight beers aplenty.

Their selection of 16 draught and 32 bottled German beers is extensive, with some only requiring a half pint, full of Deutsche punch and flavour. The kitchen also serves the German classics like schnitzel and currywurst, which are both delicious.

The Zeitgeist: 49-51 Black Prince Rd, London SE11 6AB

Princess Louise, Holborn

The Princess Louise of Holborn is a great little boozer, a maze of nooks and crannies, etched glass, old wooden bar stools and eighteenth century lamps. You can sit in a cosy corner and no-one would know you were there; it’s a real warren of warmth and joy, particularly after a couple of lagers.

Being a Sam Smith’s pub, the beers are really cheap too, so you can enjoy an afternoon here without it costing the earth; it’s rather like going back in time!

Wherever you go in London this Christmas, you will be sure to find some really good pubs – seek out some of these gems or spend an afternoon in one particular area, like Clerkenwell, Richmond or Fulham; you’ll never get bored, or cold!

Princess Louise: 208 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EP

‘London winter pub guide’ is written by Chris Jerome at Refresh Accommodation. If you are hoping to stay in London this Christmas, why not have a look at their range of fully-serviced apartments?

Thank you for reading, Sunny friends. Best wishes for the remainder of 2013, where ever you chose to spend it!

August 29, 2014 by: Sunny London

A Pub Crawl with Sun Themed Pubs in London

I bet you’ve never stopped to think about how many pubs in London are named after the Sun? It makes perfect sense that there’s tons named after royalty in a country with such a regal history. But the sun? Yep. There’s tons! And guess who has designed a pub crawl like none other for you, Sunny friends. Let’s go!

Oddly enough, this latest pub crawl was actually inspired by darkness. No joke. On a beautiful day, Mr. Sunny ventured down to my favourite place, Covent Garden, to embark on another pub crawl for ye ol’ blog.

We’ve walked by The Cross Keys many times. Next to the Churchill Arms in Kensington, it’s one of the most recognisable pubs because of its fun exterior. I took a picture and we walked inside.

Oh noooooo!

I didn’t even bother with anymore photos. While I have nothing negative to say about the pub, the lighting is just so incredibly low, I knew it wouldn’t work.

‘I need a pub with good lighting! You know, Suuuuuuuun!’ I exclaimed to Mr. Sunny, the blog’s resident beer expert.

‘Oh, ok, sweetheart,’ he responded. And he guided me a few streets away, to this charming little pub which will kick off our Sunny Pubs in London Pub Crawl…

Sunny Pubs in London- The Sun

Mr. Sunny chose this pub because he feels it’s great for being in Covent Garden and not being surrounded by tourists. It’s located on 21 Drury Lane, WC2.

He says it’s perfect for a pre-theatre pint without the foreign pests. Don’t take offense to that my international friends. Technically, I’m in the category too 😉

I’d say it’s normally fairly quiet, but currently there’s some serious street work being done. So, Mind the Construction. In fact, the road is barricaded in front of it. Hence this sideways shot…

They offer chilled lagers and real ales, plus traditional pub games. Further, they have a lounge bar available for private hire. Christmas do, anyone?

Sunny Pubs in London- The Sun Tavern Pub

Next, we ventured to The Sun Tavern Pub on 66 Long Acre, WC2E 9JD.

This Covent Garden pub ‘provides a traditional pub atmosphere with a contemporary, vibrant twist.’ Of course, it fit perfectly in to our sunny pub crawl theme. It’s also the most colourful of the four we visited. I sipped on a glass of Prosecco, and Mr. Sunny ordered a Kronenbourg.

The staff I spoke to were very excited about the pub being featured in a blog. I really enjoyed the time we spent with them. I look forward to going back.

Sunny Pubs in London- The Rising Sun

After a 10 minute walk, we arrived at our third destination.
Rising Sun is a ‘traditional British pub in Bloomsbury serving great cask ales and freshly cooked traditional pub food.’ It’s on 46 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 2ED.

It was established in 1730 and re-built in 1897. Just a few decades ago it was actually an Elvis Presley themed bar. However, it’s special to Mr. Sunny and I because it’s located just around the corner from where the London NBC News Bureau was originally located in Bedford Square.

This is where he and I met. If you’ve read my ‘About’ page, you know that I interned with NBC while studying at Florida State University. Mr. Sunny and his father were camermen there. This pub was one of the ‘locals’ for journalists and cameramen for the news channel for many, many years.

Therefore, Mr. Sunny has spent quite a bit of time there. He says the food is good, and the menu is quite extensive.

It’s also a Taylor Walker pub. Know them? There’s been several featured on Sunny in London. We visited Punch and Judy in the Covent Garden Pub Crawl and Lamb and Flag in the Mr. Sunny Pub Crawl to Avoid Selfridges. Others that I’ve featured on my Instagram are: Glassblower (Piccadilly), Coach and Horses (Mayfair), Shakespeare’s Head (Carnaby Street, Soho). Some other ones I have visited and you may know are: Museum Tavern (Bloomsbury), Two Brewers (Covent Garden) and Salisbury (Covent Garden).

For our final stop, we took about a seven minute walk to the Carnaby Street area.

Sunny Pubs in London- Sun and 13 Cantons

Located on 21 Great Pulteney, W1F 9EG, this pub not only fits in to the obvious Sunny pub theme, but also is a popular hangout for media peeps.
Sun and 13 Cantons prides itself on ‘an eclectic selection of American micro brewery beers.’ And since it was ‘once owned buy a film company, this Star of a pub was at the heart of Soho film and TV production in the 70’s and 80’s.’
The pub really picks up the pace at night. Their basement bar was used for a private party for the Chemical Brothers.

So, that’s a round up of a true Sunny in London Pub Crawl. I know there’s a few other pubs in London which feature the Sun in their name. Which ones have you seen or visited, Sunny friends?

And of course, for more great pub suggestions, Mr. Sunny and his father purchase The Good Pub Guide 2016 each year.

September 28, 2015 by: Sunny London

Kick Arse Irish Pubs in London

Looking for a hard-core beer drinkers’ pub crawl? This little list of Irish pubs in London has big value. Not only are these three pubs within a two-minute walking distance of each other and Piccadilly Circus, but also they’re truly eccentric and coveted by Londoners.

Their exteriors aren’t necessarily good indicators of the secrets they hold inside. In fact, you probably would never guess how insanely HOT they are without a little help from your Sunny guide. 😉

Now that I have your attention, let’s take a look at Mr. Sunny’s latest pub crawl for the Sunny in London blog.

Irish Pubs in London- Waxy’s Little Sister

Mr. Sunny recommends the best place to start this crawl of Irish pubs in London is at the most relaxed of the three pubs, Waxy’s Little Sister.

This cosy pub is located on 20 Wardour Street, London W1D 6QG. It’s only two levels, and it even features a Dumb Waiter so you barely even have to get off the couch to grab your next beer.

While it’s perfect for plopping your relatives down on a 1st floor sofa to overlook the sites of Chinatown, it also is a nice place to ease in to a wild night of drinking, if that kind of thing interests you.

Irish Pubs in London- Waxy O’Connor’s

Finish your first round or two and then move around the corner (or take the Wardour Street entrance if you’re a sneaky local) to Waxy O’Connor’s.

This pub covers six levels and has four unique bars. It’s an official London Irish Rugby Club and is on 14-16 Rupert Street, London W1D 6DD.

And, yes, there is a 250 year old tree inside this Irish pub near Piccadilly Circus.

According to the Waxy’s website:

The tree inside the pub was planted 250 years ago in Midlands Ireland and died naturally in 1994. A local woodworker, who played around the Beech tree as a boy, hewed the pieces that were then shipped to England and ‘planted’ in Waxy O’Connor’s in August 1995.

For avid Sunny readers, you’ll remember 1995 is the year I met Mr. Sunny.

When he and I visited, I held his beer for this picture because, well, that’s what you do in a Irish pub I guess.

Once our quick photo opp ended, I took my camera and got lost in the labyrinth of liquid sunshine stations. Every where I turned there was something beautiful and intricate to see. It’s truly one of the most fascinating pubs I have ever visited.

I regret that Mr. Sunny and I weren’t able to stay there for food the day we visited, because he says it is known for being truly delicious.

Irish Pubs in London- O’Neill’s on Wardour Street

If you’re really looking for a party vibe to end your tour of Irish pubs in London, then O’Neill’s is where close the night.

You can find it on 33-37 Wardour Street, Soho, London W1D 6PU. It has levels and levels of beer and Irish drinks for the serious drinker, a club upstairs and an outdoor smoking lounge where you can smoke. Plus, we hear the food is damn good too. There are places to sit inside and outside to enjoy a meal and drinks.

O’Neill’s is known for a pretty kickin’ nightlife, so we just caution you to pace yourself on this Kick Arse Irish Pubs in London Crawl. With the combination of Guinness, Jameson, and two other Irish pubs in this adventure, we hope you don’t try to swing off any chandeliers for your finale.

What unique Irish pubs in London can you recommend, Sunny friends? Are there any hidden pubs that you like to visit in London? Mr. Sunny relies on his knowledge and experience of being a lifelong Londoner, plus he highly recommends The Good Pub Guide.

March 1, 2015 by: Sunny London

An Irish Pub in London (in a Church) with Wings Hotter than Hell

Would you believe there’s an Irish pub in London (in a church) with wings hotter than hell?

Yes, Sunny friends, it’s true. But, before you read further, you need to know this pub review almost put Mr Sunny in the grave. I never thought there would be a day that a plate of chicken wings would cause my husband eternal pain. But, here’s the true story.

I’d like to say it was a typical glorious sunny day in London, but that isn’t the case. It was an overcast Saturday, and Mr. Sunny and I had a problem. We planned to use the City River Cruise tickets his father won to spend a nice day together in Central London. With the not so fabulous weather, I asked Mr. Sunny to come up with something closer to us in North London that was ‘extra blog cool’ and inside.

Now, when you ask a self-proclaimed pub expert to do this, you are guaranteed you’ll end up in a pub in London. I knew this was part of being Mrs. Sunny when I let him put a ring on it. However, neither of us dreamed our day would end in damnation.

If only this Irish pub in London had a warning sign like this outside:

That’s right. Mr. Sunny took me to O’Neill’s in Muswell Hill. O’Neill’s is a chain of Irish pubs in London.

Apparently, this location is very popular with proper Londoners, especially those residing in North London.

When I stepped inside, I had one of those ‘now I’ve seen everything’ moments. It really is an Irish pub in London inside a church!

I became a believer.

The next thought I had was, ‘leave it to the Irish to make drinking beer a truly religious experience.’

As I stood at the top of a staircase to view all the beer disciples, I could see why Mr. Sunny ‘the God of beer’ brought me here.

Since Six Nations Rugby 2015 is happening, this Irish pub in London is decorated accordingly.

I grabbed our drinks at the bar (Stella beer and red wine, of course) and sat down to review the menu with Mr. Sunny.

It’s impressive. The prices are fair, and there’s a variety of pub food available. Catching Mr. Sunny’s attention is the disclaimer under the Naga Ghost Chilli selection.

I didn’t see it.

My wing knowledge is fairly established since I lived in Buffalo, New York for 10 years. Since Mr. Sunny absolutely loves chicken wings, we frequented the Anchor Bar, ‘Home of Original Buffalo Wings’ when he visited. Each time he ordered their hottest wings and wasn’t affected.

Until this visit to O’Neill’s, I had never heard of a ghost chilli. Hot damn!

As we waited for our food, gorgeous platters whizzed by us. I was able to snap a super fast picture of one so you could see the temptations.

Doesn’t that look divine?

And then, Hallelujah, the food we ordered arrived!

We started to dig in. Here’s a heavenly shot of my Cheese and Bacon Burger. Can I get an ‘Amen?’

Mr. Sunny made me take pictures of his ribs super fast because he said he wasn’t ‘eating anything cold from the blog today’. He had no idea how right he was. 😉

Since I’ve never eaten a rib in my life, Mr Sunny didn’t have to worry about giving up one to his Eve. (I’m not a fan of messy food you eat with your hands. No moist towelettes for this girl!)

As I munched away on my beautiful bacon burger, I noticed Mr. Sunny starting to sweat. This Irish pub in London with a Garden of Eden facade quickly became a hellish nightmare. The ghost chilli is no phantom on the plate. Here’s a shot of the damn heathens…

While they may photograph as harmless little buggers, these devils brought my husband to his knees.

As I watched the sweat pouring from Mr. Sunny’s forehead I wished I had brought my grandfather’s treasured rosary. Mr Sunny was in dire need of holy water and a ghost chilli exorcism.

I looked above to the heavens for help while saying a Hail Mary as he struggled to finish. Would this be my husband’s Last Supper? Would he survive the Temple of Doom?

And by the powers vested in me, I now pronouce Mr. Sunny the King of the Ghost Chilli wing. He finished all 20 of them!

Quotes from Mr. Sunny at O’Neill’s Irish Pub in London:

– ‘I think I should take my jacket off.’
– ‘I should have ordered the sauce below.’
– ‘My tongue is throbbing and numb.’
– ‘Do you want that lettuce? I need something to lay on my tongue to cool it.’
– ‘I have no feeling in my head.’
– ‘I will not be defeated.’
– ‘Pain is my friend.’
– ‘I’ve now broken the pain barrier and am comfortably numb.’
– ‘I want a cigarette just to see if I have any taste buds left.’

And finally…

– ‘I’m dreading tomorrow morning.’

Just when I thought Mr. Sunny was losing his food champion status, I had an epiphany later that night…

Miraculously an episode of Man vs. Food that featured ghost chilli aired that evening. The show referenced the Scoville Scale, which is the measurement of the pungency (spicy heat) of chilli peppers. Jalapenos register at 8,000 units. The ghost chilli registers at 1 million units.

The host, Adam Richman, failed his first ghost chilli challenge. In the episode which features his second attempt his finishing quotation is, ‘Can I have some more milk? Or a gun with a bullet?’

I’m going to say that this experience was a Man vs. God experience for Mr. Sunny. And, in my opinion, he deserves a damn halo. In fact, the next time we visit O’Neill’s Irish pub in London, I don’t want to hear someone yell ‘Norm!’, I want to hear God yell, ‘Mr. Sunny!!!!’

To take the ghost chill chicken wing challenge, visit O’Neills Muswell Hill Pub. This road to perdition’s address is: 87 Muswell Hill Broadway, Muswell Hill, London, N10 3HA.

* Confession: *hand on Bible* I, Sunny in London, do solemnly swear that the story above is true. No details are embellished. The experience was not complimentary. However, should anyone choose to nominate Mr. Sunny for Sainthood, he will gladly accept.

If you’re not ready to go for the holy chicken wing grail at this Irish pub in London, you can see other hot pub crawls and reviews featured on Sunny in London. Mr. Sunny and his father also highly recommend The Good Pub Guide. American readers can find it here. What other pubs in London do you recommend? Have you ever taken a ‘food challenge’ before?

March 27, 2014 by: Sunny London

Hampstead Pub Crawl – HOT Beer Gardens!

Sunny friends, you have to join me on this Hampstead Pub Crawl full of the hottest beer gardens now that the sun is out and it’s officially Spring. Grab your sunglasses, a pint, and let’s go!

Hampstead Pub #1:

We’ll start our Hampstead Pub Crawl at the Roebuck on 15 Pond Street, NW3 2PN. You probably wouldn’t guess from the outside…

But this snazzy little gastropub has quite a cosy interior.

I just love the colour that’s everywhere inside the Roebuck. However, when the sun’s really kicking, you need to take your drinks out back and try to absorb all the warmth and colour in this fab beer garden.

The pops of vibrant colours everywhere make it tough not to feel extra cheer on those special Sunny in London days.

I think they put this sign up just for us. What do you think?

Hampstead Pub #2:

Once you are finished basking in the sun at the Roebuck, you can take a short walk to 14 South End Road, NW3 2QET to enjoy some food and adult beverages at the Garden Gate.

And yes, it absolutely lives up to its name.

But what you can’t sense from these pictures is the glorious smell of flowers that floats through the air in this 19th century pub located near Hampstead Heath.

Let’s take our drinks outside to check out the beer garden…

Yep! Another perfect place to have greatly deserved liquid sunshine on a Sunny in London day.

And finally, the mother of all beer gardens…

Hampstead Pub #3:

Literally a few steps from Hampstead Heath is the beautiful gastropub The Freemasons Arms on Downshire Hill NW3 1NT.

I love this pub because of it’s gorgeous interior.

If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s a sister pub to The Arkley and The White Horse.

Mr. Sunny and I decided to stay for a bit and order food. Here’s the starters we devoured.

TOP: Arancini risotto balls BOTTOM: salt and pepper squid

And our main courses included:

Lamb rump, asparagus, chorizo, dauphinoise potato, peas, baby onions & jus

Hampstead Pub Crawl Freemasons Arms Entree (2)

Smoked haddock, spinach & horseradish fishcakes, hollandaise & salad

While the food was very good, we both felt the portion sizes needed to be bigger. But, one thing is for sure, the Freemasons Arms doesn’t hold back on the size of its beer garden. Waaaaa Laaaaa….

I could definitely see myself throwing one ginormous summer party here, and when I do, you’ll be sure to be on the guest list, Sunny friends!

Let me know in the comments below if you agree that these beer gardens are hot places to be when the sun’s in full force in London. And, of course, write other suggestions below so we can all share in the sun and fun. Aside from my husband’s life adventures, he and his father purchase The Good Pub Guide each year for excellent pub recommendations. American readers can find it here.

March 2, 2014 by: Sunny London

Highgate Pub Crawl- a Hike, some Hype, and a Hangover?

Fasten your seat belts, Sunny friends, because this Highgate Pub Crawl is steep and plentiful! I know you can handle the truth, but if you can’t handle a big hill and 5 PUBS, you had better just stop reading right now.

Ahhhh, I knew you’d stick around, sunshines. So, let’s go!

After my long day researching chocolate for an upcoming blog story (Yes, you read that right. Stay tuned for that at the end of the week…) I met Mr Sunny at The Woodman Highgate Pub.

414 Archway Road , Highgate , London , N6 5UA

Not to be confused with the The Woodman Pub in Hertfordshire, this pub literally is right outside the Highgate tube station on the Northern Line. When Mr Sunny said, “Go up the escalator, turn right, and you’ll see it” he wasn’t kidding!

And on a Sunny in London day, can’t you just see yourself catching some rays in this stunning beer garden. Nice flat screen, eh?

Once we got seated, I shared my day’s adventure in a chocolatier’s in Carnaby Street with Mr Sunny as we sipped on our standard adult beverages, Stella and red wine.

As we made our way up hill to the next liquid sunshine seller, I was glad I had on my flat boots. The climb up the road is intense, so I definitely recommend you follow this pub crawl in order!

After our little workout, we arrived at a really famous Fuller’s pub, The Flask. It’s popular not only because it’s been Pub of the Year…

77 Highgate West Hill, Camden, London N6 6BU

But also because George Michael, Sting and Kate Moss literally live across the street. So, I’ll give you one guess where they drink.

Aside from getting me all hot and bothered about the possibility of a celebrity siting (just like I did at Primrose Hill) the Flask is fun because it has so many areas to hang. With its numerous nooks, I can see why celebrities choose it for their local.

Although, I could’ve stayed all night ~~stalking~~ waiting for a glimmer of Hollywood possibly to arrive, Mr Sunny had other pubs planned. We walked a bit to the Prince of Wales. This is the back entrance. It’s right in the center of the picture.

53 Highgate High St, London N6 5JX

And this is the front…

It’s fairly tiny. We sipped on our beer and wine and made our way to The Angel Inn.

37 Highgate High St, London N6 5JT

I love The Angel Inn for it’s charm and fun décor.

After our drinks there, we took the bull by the horns for our final stop. I’m not kidding…

13 N Hill, Highgate, London N6 4AB

The Bull Highgate is one exceptional brewpub, and yes they have a MICROBREWERY! It’s huge, and the food is great. In fact, the Buffalo Wings on Wednesday is an extremely popular menu item.

Having eaten an entire plate of dipping chocolate for lunch, I skipped a starter, but Mr Sunny chose one of his favorites… Buffalo Wings!

Next, we enjoyed our entrees…

The Bull bacon and beer cheeseburger, carmelised onion and bacon jam, hand cut chips

Beer street battered haddock and chips, mushy peas, fresh tartare sauce

By this time the sun was starting to set, so we were both ridiculously full (and dizzy from the 5 pub visits), so we headed to the bus stop to make our way back to our flat.

There’s a lot more to the Highgate area than what I’ve highlighted on my Highgate Pub Crawl. It’s a gorgeous neighborhood full of many pubs and shops that will surely impress you. Are there any other ones that you can recommend, Sunny friends?

And, if you’re looking for more fabulous pubs to visit, we highly recommend The Good Pub Guide. American readers can find it here.

January 26, 2014 by: Sunny London

Covent Garden PUB CRAWL and Street Performers

If you’re new to the pub culture in London, this Covent Garden Pub Crawl is a safe start. I’ve been to each of them several times. In fact, I can say the first one has held its popularity for a looooong time because it was just as busy when I went during my university years as an NBC News- London Bureau intern. (Way to make yourself sound young there, Sunny!)

PUNCH and JUDY- 40 The Market, Covent Garden Piazza

Although this Taylor Walker pub sits smack in the middle of one of London’s biggest tourist areas, Punch and Judy has a relatively mixed crowd of tourists and locals. The pub is said to have received its name in recognition of the puppet shows which featured short scenes between two characters.

Crowds gather in the piazza and the Apple Market to enjoy the ongoing street performers that make up the essence of this area.

At times, the balcony can be extremely packed.

This may be because it has such excellent views of the piazza.

Keep in mind, the balcony is closed week nights during the the winter months, so the ground floor and cellar bar are where you’ll find the energy.

On occasion, I’ve found it a bit difficult to get order drinks due to the crowds. But, I can say that every time I’ve been there, the crowd’s been attractive and upbeat.

Punch and Judy offers a traditional British pub menu.

THE MAPLE LEAF- 41 Maiden Lane

Since I lived in Buffalo, New York for 10 years, I have learned quite a bit about Canadian life, as it was just a short drive to Niagara Falls and Toronto. Therefore, grabbing a pint or two with my husband at The Maple Leaf had to be a part of our Covent Garden Pub Crawl.

It’s a fun sports bar that isn’t just for Canadian expats and visitors. The menu features nachos, wings, traditional pub favourites, fish and chips, steak, burgers, sandwiches and wonderful sides! Oh CANADA!

Buffalo friends, I’d really love to hear your thoughts on the wings if you make it to the Maple Leaf!

THE PORTERHOUSE BREWING COMPANY- 21-22 Maiden Lane

This pub is just down the street from the Maple Leaf and originated in Ireland and as you can tell by the title, also functions as a brewery.

According to the website, their main ingredient is malted barley from Athy. If you have a few minutes, I really suggest reviewing their menu which features: stouts, ales, lagers, specialty and seasonal beers.

For my New York City mates, you can enjoy their selections without travelling across the pond, because the Porterhouse also has a location in the Financial District. Stouts and ales are brewed in Ireland and shipped to the City. Other locations include Dublin, Wicklow and Cork.

I have eaten at Porterhouse many times. Their bangers and mash are some of my favourite in London.

So, Sunny friends, which pubs do you recommend? If you’re looking for more fabulous pubs to visit, we highly recommend The Good Pub Guide. American readers can find it here.

January 18, 2014 by: Sunny London

Nicholson’s Pub Crawl London: Exchanging a Shoe for a Kwak?

BEER. How many of you would give up a shoe for a great glass of beer? Last night I watched, completely mystified, as my husband proudly handed over his shoe to a bartender so he could gulp a Kwak. Yep. A Kwak. And it was all in the name of the first official Sunny in London pub crawl!

We purposely started my own Nicholson’s Pub Crawl London at The Porcupine because I frequented this pub often during the semester I interned at NBC News- London Bureau. It was just steps away from my flat and the bureau.

My husband ordered a San Miguel, and I enjoyed a small Rioja. Ok, I’ll confess right now that I don’t fancy beer. But, it’s hardly acceptable to live in London and not partake in the pub culture.

The pub is located just outside the Leicester Square tube station on Charing Cross Road and Great Newport Street at the edge of Chinatown.

We also ordered some nibbles, a Scotch egg and fried calamari. The menu at the pub is fairly standard: Fish and Chips, Burgers, Homemade Chicken Kiev, Shepherd’s Pie for Two, Steak and Kidney pie, etc.

The next stop on our Nicholson’s Pub Crawl London involved a quick trip through Chinatown to De Hems Dutch Café Bar on Macclesfield Street.

This delicious spot is a favourite of my husband and his mates. It dates back to the 17^th century, and according to its website, it takes its name from a Dutch seaman who bought the pub in 1890.

De Hems features an intense specialty Belgium and Continental beer menu. Pay attention to the picture below. It doesn’t list prices- it’s alcohol percent level…

I stuck with my Rioja, and my husband decided to give a “kwak” at something different. He asked the bartender if it still held true that you had to surrender a shoe for the special brew. Once it was confirmed, he handed over both his right Merrell and his money in exchange for this stunning replacement slipper and his drink.

It is served in a wooden glass holder specifically designed with a rounded bottom, which enhances the flavour of the beer. The shoe serves as collateral for the pub to guarantee that customers won’t run off with, or as the British say “nick”, the glass and holder.

De Hems not only features the standard British Nicholson’s menu but also features Dutch food, heavily influenced by Indonesian cuisine due to the Dutch colonization of Indonesia. Such food items include chicken sate and spring rolls.

Once my husband finished his Kwak, he made the shoe/holder exchange and we were off to our third Nicholson’s pub, Marquis of Granby on Rathbone Street. I continued my evening’s date with Rioja, and Mr. Sunny switched back to San Miguel.

The Marquis of Granby was a popular hangout for the NBC crew members and local postal workers because it’s located near the old bureau and a local postal sorting location.

I thoroughly enjoyed my mini Nicholson’s Pub Crawl London. If you visit their website, they offer “Ale Trails” in Soho and Oxford Street, Theatreland, Piccadilly to Westminster, Historic to Blackfriars, The Financial District, and London Bridge to Tower Bridge. You also can get a free Ale Trail T-shirt by using their collector’s leaflet and getting six different stamps from six different pubs. If you visit the site, you can also download their Autumn Ales Tasting Guide.

I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the Shoe-Kwak exchange and what ideas/suggestions you have for future Sunny in London pub crawls!

For more on amazing pubs in London, we highly recommend this book that we purchase each year…
The Good Pub Guide 2016