If you’re around South Hampstead Overground and fancy a good pint or a cheeky cocktail, you’re in for a treat! This charming area is sprinkled with a delightful mix of cosy pubs and lively bars, each with its own unique vibe. From trendy spots serving up craft brews to traditional pubs where you can enjoy a proper pint of ale, South Hampstead’s drinking holes cater to every taste. Whether you’re out for a laid-back evening with mates or looking to discover a new favourite hangout, the local bars and pubs around South Hampstead Overground promise a cracking night out.
The Gallery
Address: 190 Broadhurst Gardens, London, NW6 3AY
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of West Hampstead, The Gallery is conveniently located on Broadhurst Gardens, just a short walk from the West Hampstead Underground, Overground, and Thameslink stations. This makes it easily accessible whether you’re a local or coming from other parts of London.
- What’s the Vibe? The Gallery offers a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for both casual outings and lively evenings. With its warm wooden decor, eclectic artwork, and a welcoming vibe, it manages to blend the feel of a cosy neighbourhood pub with the excitement of a bustling bar. Whether you’re here for a quiet afternoon pint or a night out with friends, you’ll find a space that caters to your mood.
What’s On Offer
- Waffle Brunch: Every weekend, The Gallery transforms into a brunch haven, offering a delightful array of waffles starting from 10 am. What’s more, they have a special option for bottomless brunch, featuring unlimited cocktails, which makes for a perfect leisurely start to your Saturday or Sunday.
- Quiz Nights: The Gallery is renowned for its engaging weekly events. Every Wednesday, they host a lively quiz night with prizes, including a £50 bar tab for the winner and a chance to win a cash jackpot.
- DJ Nights: For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, Friday evenings feature a DJ night from 9 pm, bringing a festive atmosphere to kickstart your weekend.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm (Kitchen 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm)
- Tuesday – Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm (Kitchen 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm / 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm)
- Thursday – Friday: 12:00 pm – 12:30 am (Kitchen 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm / 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm)
- Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:30 am (Kitchen 10:00 am – 4:00 pm / 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm)
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Kitchen 10:00 am – 8:00 pm)
The North Star
Address: 104 Finchley Rd, South Hampstead, London, NW3 5JJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The North Star is conveniently located on Finchley Road in South Hampstead, London. Positioned near several key transport links including Finchley Road & Frognal railway station and Finchley Road underground, it’s easily accessible.
- What’s the Vibe? The North Star boasts a cosy and traditional British pub atmosphere with a historic charm. The interior features a mix of classic pub furnishings, including dark wood panelling, etched glass, and a marble fireplace, giving it a warm and inviting feel. The pub’s layout is split across multiple levels due to the building’s position on a slope, adding to its unique character. It caters to a diverse crowd, from local regulars and students to sports enthusiasts, thanks to its lively sports broadcasts and various seating areas, including a multi-level patio at the back.
What’s On Offer
- Delicious Pub Grub: The North Star is renowned for its hearty and classic pub fare. It offers a menu featuring British and Irish staples such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. Notably, the pub also caters to gluten-free diners, offering dishes like gluten-free fish and chips, which has garnered positive reviews from patrons
- Live Sports: A key highlight of The North Star is its dedication to sports and entertainment. The pub regularly broadcasts major sports events on multiple TVs, making it a popular spot for fans.
- Live Performances: Additionally, it hosts the London Improv Theatre upstairs, providing a vibrant space for live comedy and performances. The combination of sports viewing and live entertainment ensures there’s always something happening at The North Star.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – Midnight
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
The North Star is a quintessential British pub that offers a mix of traditional charm, hearty food, and engaging entertainment, making it a standout spot in South Hampstead.
Ye Olde Swiss Cottage
Address: 98 Finchley Road, London, NW3 5EL
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Ye Olde Swiss Cottage is nestled just a stone’s throw away from Swiss Cottage Underground station. This pub is uniquely positioned in a busy roundabout, making it a distinctive landmark in North London. Despite the bustling location, it retains a quaint charm, evocative of its storied history.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a nostalgic, cosy atmosphere reminiscent of an old English inn. With its rustic wooden interiors, traditional décor, and a warm, welcoming environment, it provides a comfortable setting. The building’s quirky, chalet-style architecture stands out amidst the urban landscape, offering a charming retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
What’s On Offer
- Traditional Pub Fare: Ye Olde Swiss Cottage prides itself on its hearty, traditional British cuisine. The menu features classic pub dishes such as fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and pies, all served in generous portions. The pub also caters to various dietary preferences, ensuring that vegetarians and other diners have tasty options to choose from.
- Extensive Drinks Selection: As part of the Samuel Smith’s Brewery, the pub offers an impressive array of ales and lagers brewed in Yorkshire. They also have a variety of wines and spirits, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste. The lack of background music means patrons can enjoy their drinks with good conversation, enhancing the traditional pub experience.
Practical Info:
- When Can You Visit? Ye Olde Swiss Cottage is open daily. From Monday to Saturday, the pub opens its doors at 11:30 AM and closes at 11:00 PM. On Sundays, it opens slightly later at 12:00 PM and closes at 10:30 PM.
The Railway
Address: 100 West End Lane, London, NW6 2LU
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Railway is situated in the heart of West Hampstead, London, prominently positioned on the bustling West End Lane. It is conveniently located near West Hampstead Tube Station.
- What’s the Vibe? Steeped in history and musical heritage, The Railway offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its interior reflects a classic pub setting with wooden furnishings and vintage decor, creating a cosy and nostalgic environment. The venue has a rich musical past, having hosted legendary performances by bands like The Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix, adding a sense of historic charm and vibrancy to its ambiance.
What’s On Offer
- Live Music: The Railway honours its illustrious past with regular live music and entertainment. From local bands and solo acts to open mic nights, the pub provides a platform for diverse musical talents. This tradition of live music creates an engaging and dynamic atmosphere, perfect for those looking to enjoy a lively night out.
- Live Sports: For sports enthusiasts, The Railway is an ideal spot to catch live games. Equipped with Sky Sports and TNT Sports, it covers a wide range of sporting events in a vibrant setting.
- Food: The pub also boasts an exciting menu with pub classics and seasonal dishes, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Special menus for events like Father’s Day or the launch of new dishes keep the offerings fresh and appealing.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Railway is open daily, welcoming guests from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
This iconic venue blends historical significance with modern pub culture, making it a standout spot in West Hampstead. Whether you’re a music lover, a sports fan, or just in search of a great place to unwind, The Railway offers something for everyone.
The Arches Wine Bar
Address: 7 Fairhazel Gardens, London, NW6 3QE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Swiss Cottage, The Arches Wine Bar is a hidden gem in the heart of North West London. It’s easily accessible from Swiss Cottage and South Hampstead stations.
- What’s the Vibe? The Arches exudes a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, combining rustic charm with a touch of modern flair. Set beneath a series of graceful arches, the interior blends exposed brickwork with comfortable seating and soft lighting, creating an intimate setting perfect for relaxed evenings or special celebrations.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Wine Selection: At the core of The Arches is its impressive wine collection, featuring a variety of carefully curated options from rich reds to crisp whites, including some rare vintages. Their knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide you through their selections, ensuring you find the perfect wine to suit your palate.
- Delectable Dining Experience: The culinary offerings at The Arches are just as notable as their wines. The menu, crafted by skilled chefs, features a delightful array of dishes inspired by global flavours and local seasonal ingredients. From small plates perfect for sharing to hearty mains, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available, ensuring all guests can enjoy a delicious meal.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Arches Wine Bar welcomes guests from Tuesday to Saturday between 12:00 and 23:00, and on Sundays from 12:00 to 22:00. They are closed on Mondays, making it a perfect mid-week or weekend retreat.
Ready to Visit?
The area around South Hampstead Overground is brimming with vibrant and charming spots to unwind. The Gallery on Broadhurst Gardens offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual drink or an exciting night out. Not far away, The North Star on Finchley Road provides a traditional pub experience with hearty food and a mix of sports and entertainment. Meanwhile, The Arches Wine Bar in Swiss Cottage is a cosy retreat beneath graceful arches, ideal for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a delectable dining experience.
Share the Love
Why not visit The Gallery for a vibrant evening or The North Star for a taste of traditional British pub life? Share this article with friends and bring them along to discover these delightful venues. Don’t forget to leave a review and let us know about your experience!