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In a city where a new microbrewery seems to pop up every 17 seconds, Hammerton is one with a history, operating from the 1860s until the 1950s. It was in 2014 that Lee Hammerton (presumably with one eye on the craft-beer boom) decided to resurrect the family business. A mile away from the brewery is this new taproom, in what locals will remember was formerly The Wig & Gown on Holloway Road.
The all-black exterior isn’t exactly welcoming, the exposed-brick decor stylish rather than cosy, and the hard floors and loud music make for a bit of a din – so consider this a place for mates versus dates. But the jolly staff made up for it, letting us sample everything they had on their 24 lines (but of course), and guiding us through the ever-changing drinks list. Aside from Hammerton’s own brews – the ‘N7’ IPA is their most popular, and for good reason – there were also guest beers from breweries as far and wide as Lervig in Norway and Mala Gissona in the Basque Country.
A welcome spot in Islington for hops connoisseurs, certainly. Just no jokes about getting hammered, please.