Islington. Not a lot going on there. In terms of drinking holes that is.

Yes, we like the Elk (not really a bar) and The Social's okay (mainly due to location), but if you're looking for a local drink amongst like minded folk (read too old to wear crop tops), in recent years it's been pretty hard to find here.

But help could be at hand with the re-emergence of Essex Road stalwart The
Old Queens Head which, following a period of gradual decline in recent years, officially re-opens after extensive refurbishment this weekend.

Now owned by respected North London promoter, Steve Blonde , the creative brains behind nearby super-club Fabric, the pub promises to give locals something to shout about.

We've had a sneak preview and the results are undeniably impressive: from the 16th century fireplaces, bespoke chandeliers and well-stocked bar and kitchen on the ground floor, to the opulent ballroom on the first floor (we love!), this place looks set to become a local with class, rather than just another gastro...

Blonde's high-level music industry connections are also expected to deliver an eclectic rota of live acts and DJs in the coming months.

So Upper Street may be beyond hope, but we have a feeling that The Old Queens Head might be just what this still innovative neighbourhood needs to get its groove back.