Victoria Stakes, Muswell Hill

Only three pumps in action but I am assured the intention is to have 4 rotating real ales.

Single-bar pub nestling in the foothills of Alexandra Palace, on the main Finsbury Park to Muswell Hill bus route. Its name (so it is beleieved) comes from a horse race (it was originally built as a coachouse & stables) and the theme is reinforced throughout the pub. The pub's website has an interesting piece on its history.

Like several real ale outlets in the area, it describes itself as a 'bar and dining rooms'. Furnishings are a mix of leather sofas and old style wooden chairs; there is a wooden floor throughout on two levels and candle lighting predominates.

The cask beers available seem to change regularly and we have seen beers from various breweries across the country but they also favour tap takeovers - for example on a visit in November 2023 there were three beers from the Renegade Brewey. The pub also offers draught Leffe and Hoegaarden.

Food is served, either in the pub or the upstairs restaurant, check website for latest times. The menu takes in a wide ranges of full meals, snacks and tapas, plus various set menus. The pub suffered a massive fire in 2016 and has now been restored to full health with all the damage put right.