URBAN PUBS & BARS POURS £500K INTO HIGHBURY BARN TAVERN REVAMP AHEAD OF JULY REOPENING
Historic North London pub reopens with elevated food offering, new chef, and community-led focus
Urban Pubs and Bars, London’s largest independent pub and dining group, has announced the grand reopening of the Highbury Barn Tavern following a major refurbishment and a £500,000 investment.
Reopening its doors on Thursday 17th July, the historic North London venue — just a short stroll from the Emirates Stadium — is returning with fresh interiors, an ambitious food-led vision, and a renewed focus on community. A favourite among families, locals, and Arsenal supporters, the revitalised Highbury Barn Tavern aims to combine its Victorian heritage with modern hospitality.
The extensive renovation includes a fully redecorated interior, a new back bar (complemented by the preserved original bar front), and upgraded bar and dining areas. Outdoor seating has also been refreshed. The venue now accommodates 200 guests across a 100-person bar, a 60-seat dining room, and a 40-person snug, offering a balance of traditional pub atmosphere and contemporary comfort.
A key focus of the relaunch is the food. Heading up the kitchen is Sara O’Neil, formerly sous chef at The Gatehouse in Highgate Village — recognised by Condé Nast as one of the top 20 pubs for food in London.
O’Neil’s menu is built around ingredients from respected local suppliers including award-winning butchers Godfreys and artisan cheesemonger La Fromagerie. Guests can expect refined modern pub dishes as well as desserts inspired by the venue’s origins as a Victorian dairy house. Signature plates will include vanilla set custard with poached apricots, as well as a curated cheese selection from La Fromagerie.
“Highbury Barn Tavern is one of the area’s most historic pubs, and we’re proud to be investing in its future,” said Chris Hill, Managing Director of Urban Pubs and Bars. “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 pub is positioning itself as a hub for the local community, with a full weekly calendar of themed events. Mondays will feature a ‘Bring Your Own’ wine offer, with 10% off bottles from nearby Highbury Wines. Thursdays are reserved for Oyster Night, with oysters available for £1.50 each. Saturdays will revolve around sports and a dedicated match-day menu, while Sundays will focus on long, relaxed roast lunches followed by the ever-popular pub quiz.
Sunday roasts include slow-roasted Suffolk leg of lamb to share, and aged Hereford sirloin of beef, served from midday to 9pm.
Families are actively encouraged, with the pub’s location near Highbury Fields and local schools making it an ideal destination for weekend lunches or early evening dinners. On match days, the Highbury Barn Tavern will continue to attract Arsenal fans with takeaway pints, big screens showing the game, and a lively atmosphere both before and after the final whistle.
The pub will operate seven days a week, with a celebratory reopening event scheduled for Friday 25th July.
Urban Pubs and Bars’ revival of the Highbury Barn Tavern underscores its ongoing commitment to restoring heritage London pubs and delivering a modern yet authentic experience that resonates with local communities.
