Calling all gamers! Board gamers! Card Gamers! Video Gamers! Those massive trading card games that may or may not be cool versions of Dungeons and Dragons Gamers! I’m calling all Gamers!

If you want to share a pint or a bite with friends but want something to do it over, look no further than the Loading Bar! With a large selection of board and card games, a variety of consoles, a purpose made menu, and a funky arcade room, it’s no wonder the Loading bar has recently opened up its second branch!

Where: 129 Stoke Newington High Street, just South of Church Street. There’s also a recently opened branch in Peckham, on 120 Peckham Hill Street (but the information and review in this article is based on my experiences at the Stoke Newington Branch).

If you’re in Brighton check out their location on the Lower Promenade.

When: Monday to Friday; 5pm-12am. Saturday; 12pm-1am. Sunday; 12-10pm

How long and Who: You can spend any amount of time at this bar, just don’t overstay you’re welcome by playing games for hours after just buying a water. There’s no set rule with this and you definitely don’t need to be buying drinks right when you finish them (I normally get around a drink per hour/game to be honest), just don’t abuse the bars hospitality. This is more important on a busy evening.

As for who, with the range of games available, there’s truly something for everyone. I’ve often seen children playing with their parents here.

Cost: There’s no charge to play games, so long as you purchase something. There’s a large drinks menu, including a selection of video game themed cocktails (I absolutely recommend the MONSTER Hunter!), so lick your lips and roll that six!

The drinks menu is a little bit more than at a local pub, say 15%, but you’re paying extra for the games so it’s worth it. I haven’t looked at the food menu but I assume it’s the same.

Near to: Abney Park – 5 minute walk. Clissold Park – 10 minute walk