Along with its connections with the arts, literature and liberalism, Hampstead is well known for its traditional pubs. With a wealth of history the area boasts some pubs which are decades old and still going strong serving fantastic food and local ales. These are my top picks for traditional Hampstead pubs to help you decide where to visit on your trip to this beautiful part of London.

The Holly Bush

A real gem, The Holly Bush is a Grade II listed public house in Holly Mount, Hampstead, which was bought by Fuller’s Brewery in 2010. Established more than 200 years ago The Holly Bush is engrained in Hampstead history and has retained some of its original features including the fire, ornate etched glass panels and authentic wooden floors.

Proud of its heritage this pub displays local nostalgia on the walls of its comfortable interior where you can enjoy acclaimed ales and a menu of seasonal, hearty comfort food. Choice Hotels recommends a Pimms and lemonade in the garden, if you’re with friends try the sharing plates, my favourite is the Selection of cured meats, baked Somerset Camembert, artisan bread, pickles & chutney.

The Spaniard’s Inn

Located on the road between Hampstead and Highgate near Kenwood House the Spaniard’s Inn is said to have been built in 1585 and today is a quaint, oak panelled, atmospheric pub with a fantastic pub gardens. The Spaniard’s Inn has a few claims to fame including Dick Turpin, the highwayman, is thought to have been a regular customer as well as being mentioned in books by Dickens and Bram Stocker’s Dracula.

Fresh, seasonal British pub food served all day at The Spaniard’s Inn, they aim to combine pub favourites with modern classics from locally sourced ingredients which are cooked to order and served simply. Try the Handmade burgers: 8oz West Country beef with Colliers Welsh cheddar, double-cooked chips and house relish alongside your local cask brew.

The Old Bull and Bush

This Grade II listed pub started out as a simple farmhouse built in 1645 and started serving alcohol in 1721. It is said that painter William Hogarth drank at the Old Bull and Bush. This pub was made famous by Florie Forde (popular singer and entertainer) with her music hall song, “Down at the Old Bull and Bush”.

The building has seen a number of refurbishments over the years and now is a gastropub with charming and professional service offering British/Mediterranean cuisine alongside varied selection of beers, wines and spirits. On the menu at the moment is British salt beef sandwich complete with horseradish crème fraiche and rocket, maple roasted sweet potato and beetroot salad and try the to die for salted caramel chocolate pot to finish.

This article was provided by Welsh View Blog

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