Popular Highbury Barn Tavern to reopen following £500,000 refurbishment with new Chef and community focus
Urban Pubs and Bars, London’s largest independent pub and dining group, has today announced the reopening of the Highbury Barn Tavern.
The beloved North London local will return to the neighbourhood from Thursday 17th July, following a full refurbishment and a £500,000 investment.
Situated just a short walk from the Emirates Stadium the Highbury Barn Tavern has long been a favourite for locals, families, and Arsenal fans alike.
The recent transformation brings new energy to the venue while paying tribute to its storied past, which dates back to 1840 as an ale and cake house.
The full redecoration includes upgraded bar and dining areas, a newly built back bar (while retaining the characterful original bar front), and refreshed outdoor seating.
With capacity for 200 guests across a 100-person bar, 60-seat dining room, and a 40-person snug, the space balances traditional pub charm with a relaxed ambience.
A major focus of the relaunch is the food. Highbury Barn Tavern welcomes Head Chef Sara O’Neil, formerly sous chef at The Gatehouse in Highgate Village (named one of Conde Nast’s Top 20 London pubs for food), to lead the kitchen.
With a menu shaped by local Highbury suppliers, including award-winning butchers Godfreys and celebrated cheesemonger La Fromagerie, the food offering is designed to re-establish the Tavern’s strong foodie credentials. Dishes will include modern pub classics alongside desserts inspired by the venue’s Victorian dairy-house roots, such as vanilla set custard with poached apricots, and cheeses from La Fromagerie.
Once reopened the Highbury Barn Tavern will focus on neighbourhood-friendly gatherings and neighbourhood social events. On Monday there’s a ‘Bring Your Own’ wine when you dine, with 10% off bottles from local merchant Highbury Wines. Thursday is Oyster Night with the seafood treats available at £1.50 each. Saturday will focus on sports and good food with big screen action and a match-day menu.
Sunday is all about roasts served from 12-9pm, 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, and the pub’s proximity to Highbury Fields and local schools makes it a natural spot for weekend lunches or relaxed dinners. Match days remain a major draw. Highbury Barn Tavern retains its reputation as a go-to destination for Arsenal supporters with takeaway pints, screens showing all the action, 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 re-opening event planned for Friday 25th July. Guests can expect a community-focused pub with an elevated dining experience, where great food, sport, and social gatherings all come together.
Visit the website: www.urbanpubsandbars.com/venues/the-highbury-barn-tavern