Like Hampstead’s Spaniards Inn, the Flask was reportedly one of highway-bothering historical don Dick Turpin’s former haunts. Dick must have preferred the Spaniards, since his ghost is said to still knock about there, but you can’t fault this place for ambience. The Flask is within haunting distance of Highgate Cemetery and feels suitably spooky, with its dark panelling and cool atmosphere seemingly designed to send a shiver down your spine. Still, you can warm your cockles with its menu of superior pub grub and a drinks offering that includes a good selection of ales (this is a Fullers gaff, after all) cocktails and non-alcoholic spritzes. Reassuringly, there have been some ghostly sightings over the years, with regular spooks apparently including a former staff member and a man in a Cavalier uniform.
Bring a book
The Flask has been as popular with writers as it has spirits: Lord Byron, Percy Shelley and John Keats are reputed to have supped here. It’s the perfect place, then, for a pint and a good read in a classic historial pub.
What’s nearby?
You're roughly five minutes from Highgate Village’s delightful shopping strip – so you can even grab yourself a tome from Highgate Bookshop on the way.
RECOMMENDED: The most haunted pubs in London.