Bars & Pubs

The 2007 refit of this fail-safe Young's boozer on a pretty Hampstead alley attracted some local controversy. The result, however, has been kind - not least to the food menu - and the pub's unique charm remains intact. The bar is still partitioned into two separate areas: the (locals') bar and the lounge. In the former, expect to witness Hampstead's old guard propping up the bar and letting rip on a number of topics (the evils of Camden Council being the most popular). The lounge, conservatory and garden are more sedate affairs, with a younger, less intimidating crowd eating anything from beer-battered fish and chips to calf's liver, while sipping pints of Bombardier, Addlestones or the seasonally changing draught.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9