While Angel teems with life every weekend, the crowds ebb away the further down Essex Road you travel - a problem several previous versions of the Orwell have struggled to cope with.

The new owners have come in with a different approach, operating it as a music venue to draw crowds from further afield, instead of only looking for locals after a pint. There is sometimes a small cover charge (mostly at weekends), while the music on offer varies so checking ahead may be recommended, with metal, new wave, post punk and brit pop among the current offerings. The stage area also plays host to bands and occasionally comedy.

Whereas some music venues don't deliver on the drinks front, here ale and lager drinkers are looked after, while Franziskaner also makes an appearance. The Orwell stays open until 2am on Friday and Saturday, while it doesn't open at all on Monday or Tuesday. This welcome addition to the area will hopefully last longer than its predecessors.

NEAREST STATION: Canonbury station
FEATURES: real ale, DJ, live music, open after 11:00pm, outdoor seating