Hat & Feathers — Restaurant in London

A Draught-Only Drinker's Review

First Impressions

Open on Sundays – a big win. Not many pubs in the area do, and certainly not with this kind of vibe.

The interior? Pure character. Classic antique furniture, an eclectic mix of seating – velvet backless stools, comfy banquette seating, and a few random but perfectly placed Chesterfield sofas. My personal favourite: the plain old wooden chairs by the windows, ideal for watching the world go by while unwinding with a drink. Because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to survive, and nothing beats taking a quiet moment to appreciate life.

There’s a typewriter, a headless mannequin, one too many clocks, stacks of books, and of course – hats (yes, real hats). The whole vibe gives off dark academia meets Victorian oddities, and I dig it. Haven’t asked to borrow a hat for a photo yet, but it’s on my list.

Best of all – no blaring TV. Just soft lighting, mellow music, and multiple windows bringing in natural light. It’s peaceful, warm, and welcoming – a place where you can actually enjoy a conversation without shouting – imagine that!

Now, Let’s Talk Beer

Since bottled beer just doesn’t hit the same as draught, this review is strictly about the draught selection – because that's what matters. If you can’t tell the difference between draught and bottled, shame on you. For the rest of us, here’s the draught beer lineup (as of 20th July):

• Carlsberg – Basic. Let's be honest: bland, but there for people who like water with a hint of grain.

• Estrella – Decent enough lager.

• Porretti – It walks like a pilsner, talks like a pilsner… just doesn’t label itself as one. With quattro luppoli (that’s four hops, not a jazz band), it’s clean, crisp, and just hoppy enough to mean business – bite without the bitterness tantrum. Unpretentious, reliable, and always welcome at my table. My go-to.

• Blanc 1664 – The beast. Crisp, cold, citrusy – not fruity, so don’t come at me with your ale snobbery. The citrus in Blanc 1664 is clean and sharp, not overwhelming, making it the ideal pint after a long, draining day – it’s easily one of the best draughts on tap.

As for ales, not really my thing – too fruity for my taste – but I did try: • Two Tribes Dream – Strong juicy hop character. Not for me. • Brooklyn Stonewall – Surprisingly easy drinking. More crisp and clean, even lager-lovers might like it. Still waiting to try their in-house ale and Hobgoblin, which haven’t been in stock yet during my five visits 🙃. • Oh, and they’ve got Guinness – for all those people who genuinely enjoy the taste of burnt toast mixed with espresso and regret.

Prices range from £6.50 (Carlsberg) to £7.40 (Brooklyn), which is more than fair for Clerkenwell.

Staff & Service

Absolutely outstanding. Shoutout to Raj, Amal, Ope, and Sai – not only fast and friendly, but genuinely enjoy their work (you can tell). I knew a couple of them from The Slaughtered Lamb, so maybe I’m a little biased – but they were excellent then, and even better now.

And special mention to Manager Julino – professional, attentive, and really makes the place feel like more than just another pub. He greets people, checks in, handles things personally. It’s a rare level of hospitality these days – top-tier pub management. Also, everyone dresses smart – not in a tuxedo kind of way, but sharp enough to give the whole place a classier, more polished feel.

Toilets Matter, Too

Second most important place in a pub after the bar. And let me tell you – these are clean. Not just pub-clean – boutique hotel clean. The kind of restroom where you don’t feel like you need a tetanus shot afterward. Body lotion included, no joke. Only one of two pubs I know that does this. Little things, big impact, definitely a clue to its Indigo Hotel affiliation – and a classy one at that.

Verdict • Ambience: 5/5 • Beer Selection: 5/5 • Cleanliness: 5/5 • Seating & Comfort: 5/5 • Service: 5/5 • Hobgoblin Availability: 0/5 (Still waiting…) In short: Would I recommend? Absolutely. Will I be back? You’ll probably find me in the...

The Hat & Feathers pub benefits from a highly accessible location, making it a practical choice for both locals and visitors exploring the city. Upon entering, one is greeted by a welcoming and generally friendly atmosfere, which contributes significantly to a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The pub's historical roots are evident, lending it a distinct character that resonates with its London setting. Notably, the recent renowation has been carried out with attention to detail, resulting in an interior that feels both refreshed and respectful of its heritage. This thoughtful refurbishment has created an aesthetically pleasing environment without sacrificing the pub's traditional charme. Regarding its offerings, the Hat & Feathers provides a commendable selection of food and beverages. The menu features a good range of pub fare, suitable for various tastes, while the beer selection is diverse, offering both familiar choices and some craft options. This ensures that patrons have ample choices whether they are looking for a casual meal or a drink. In summary, the Hat & Feathers stands as a solid option for those seeking a well-located pub with a pleasant ambiance, a sense of history, and a decent array of food and drink. It is a place that can be genuinely recommended for a straightforward and satisfying pub visit in the...

A True Clerkenwell Gem – The Hat and Feathers

Visited The Hat and Feathers recently, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most memorable pub experiences I’ve had in London. From the moment I walked through the door, the service was impeccable — warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without ever being overbearing. Thank you Raj and Amal!

What really sets this place apart, though, is the atmosphere. The decor beautifully pays homage to the rich history of Clerkenwell, effortlessly blending period charm with modern comfort. It feels like stepping into a well-loved piece of local heritage, where every detail has been thoughtfully considered — from the classic wood paneling and vintage fixtures to subtle nods to the area’s Victorian past.

Whether you’re dropping in for a quick pint, a relaxed evening with friends, or a cosy Sunday lunch, The Hat and Feathers delivers on all fronts. It’s clear the team here takes great pride in what they do, and it shows.

And can we just have a moment to appreciate the ladies'...

Highly recommended — a perfect mix of tradition, character, and top-notch...