Just steps from Swiss Cottage Tube, you’ll find a cosy mix of classic pubs and modern bars perfect for a pint or two. While the iconic Ye Olde Swiss Cottage has sadly closed its doors, the area still boasts some great spots. The North Star, just up Finchley Road, offers a traditional pub vibe with a solid selection of ales. For a more contemporary setting, Chats Bar inside the Marriott Hotel serves up cocktails and light bites in a relaxed atmosphere . Venture a bit further, and you’ll discover gems like The Washington in Belsize Park and The Garden Gate in Hampstead, both known for their welcoming ambiance and lovely beer gardens . Whether you’re after a quiet drink or a lively evening, Swiss Cottage has something to suit every taste.
The Queen’s
Address: 49 Regent’s Park Road, Primrose Hill, London NW1 8XD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled in the heart of Primrose Hill, The Queen’s sits just a short stroll from the park’s summit, offering a prime spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet refined pub experience.
- What’s the Vibe? This grand Victorian-era pub blends traditional charm with contemporary flair. Inside, you’ll find original features like stained-glass windows and a roaring open fire, complemented by modern touches and a welcoming atmosphere. The upstairs dining room and terrace provide scenic views over Primrose Hill, making it a cosy retreat year-round.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal British Cuisine: Head Chef Chris and his team serve up a menu of fresh, seasonal British dishes. Highlights include the Cyder-battered haddock and chips, beef shin cottage pie with stilton mash, and a hearty pork and leek sausage toad in the hole. Vegetarian and vegan options, such as the butternut squash crumble and plant-based burger, ensure there’s something for everyone.
- Sunday Roasts & Spritz Specials: Sundays at The Queen’s are a treat, featuring slow-cooked meats, seasonal vegan roasts, and Yorkshire puddings that are, quite literally, larger than life. Pair your meal with a signature Bloody Mary or choose from their spritz menu, which includes options like the Rhubarb Rosé with Lillet and the refreshing Hugo Spritz.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit? The Queen’s is open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Food is served from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Haverstock Tavern
Address: 94 Haverstock Hill, London, NW3 2BD
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled on Haverstock Hill, The Haverstock Tavern sits between Belsize Park and Chalk Farm, making it a convenient stop for locals and visitors alike. It’s particularly handy for those heading to The Roundhouse or exploring nearby Hampstead.
- What’s the Vibe? Housed in a handsome Georgian building, this independent free house exudes classic London charm. Inside, you’ll find a spacious main room complemented by a cosy side area, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The pub prides itself on offering everything great about a London boozer: fantastic beers, a brilliant atmosphere, and, most importantly, a warm welcome.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal Pub Classics & Sunday Roasts: The kitchen serves a menu of delicious seasonal pub classics every day from midday until 9pm (until 8pm on Sundays). Highlights include handmade starters like salmon & dill fishcakes and a pub classic Cumberland scotch egg. Sundays are reserved for their renowned roasts, touted as the best in Belsize Park, accompanied by Bloody Marys and Sunday papers.
- Live Sports: Sports enthusiasts can catch all the Premier League and European action on Sky and TNT, though not all games are shown with sound.
- Sunday Quiz: Additionally, the pub hosts a weekly pub quiz every Sunday at 7pm, adding a fun and competitive edge to your visit.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday–Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday–Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
- Kitchen Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 12:00 – 21:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 20:00
ONE75
Address: 175 West End Lane, West Hampstead, NW6 2LH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? ONE75 is situated on West End Lane in the heart of West Hampstead, just a short stroll from West Hampstead Underground, Overground, and Thameslink stations.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue boasts a stylish and contemporary design, featuring a bright and airy main bar area complemented by a cosy basement lounge. The ambiance is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for both casual drinks and special occasions. The addition of a summer garden offers a delightful outdoor space during warmer months.
What’s On Offer
- Craft Cocktails & Venetian Cicchetti: ONE75 specialises in expertly crafted cocktails, offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Complementing the drinks is a selection of Venetian – style cicchetti – small plates perfect for sharing, adding a Mediterranean flair to the experience.
- Private Events & Live Music: The venue features a basement equipped with a dedicated bar and club-quality sound system, making it suitable for private events and live music performances.
- Summer Garden: Additionally, the summer garden provides a charming setting for gatherings and celebrations.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 17:30 – 01:00
- Wednesday: 17:30 – 01:00
- Thursday: 17:30 – 02:00
- Friday: 17:30 – 03:00
- Saturday: 17:30 – 03:00
- Sunday: 17:00 – 02:00
The North Star
Address: 104 Finchley Rd, South Hampstead, NW3 5JJ
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Situated on the bustling Finchley Road in South Hampstead, The North Star occupies a prominent corner spot, making it a notable landmark in the area.
- What’s the Vibe? The pub exudes a traditional charm with its high Victorian architecture, featuring a wrought iron balcony and ornate stucco decorations. Inside, patrons can expect a warm, unpretentious atmosphere with classic pub furnishings and a welcoming environment.
What’s On Offer
- Historic Significance: Built in 1850, The North Star stands as a testament to the area’s rich history. Notably, the Jubilee line runs just three feet beneath its cellar, adding a unique touch to its character.
- Outdoor Space: The pub boasts a spacious, multi-level patio at the rear, which is both covered and heated, providing a comfortable setting for outdoor gatherings year-round.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Food Service Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Note: Kitchen closes early on Sundays)
The Washington
Address: 50 England’s Lane, Belsize Park, NW3 4UE
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? The Washington is situated on a prominent corner in Belsize Park, just a short stroll from Primrose Hill. It’s easily accessible from Belsize Park, Chalk Farm, and Swiss Cottage tube stations.
- What’s the Vibe? This Grade II-listed Victorian pub, established in 1865, exudes historic charm with its original features like etched glass, mahogany fittings, and back-painted mirrors depicting flora and fauna. The atmosphere is a blend of traditional elegance and relaxed modernity, offering a cosy setting for various occasions.
What’s On Offer
- Classic British Fare: The Washington serves a menu of traditional British dishes, including pub classics and seasonal creations. Highlights include fish and chips, ribeye steak, and their renowned Sunday roasts. The menu caters to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Unique Event Spaces: For private gatherings, The Washington offers distinctive spaces like Martha’s Bar – a speakeasy-style basement bar hidden behind a secret bookcase entrance, accommodating up to 60 guests. Another option is The Snug, a semi-private area with antique mirrors and natural lighting, suitable for smaller groups. Both spaces are available for hire and come with catering options.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
Ready to Visit?
Nestled between the leafy streets of Belsize Park, West Hampstead and Primrose Hill, this part of North West London is a hidden gem for lovers of great pubs and bars. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant Victorian charm of The Queen’s in Primrose Hill or the lively, welcoming buzz of The North Star on Finchley Road, there’s something here for every taste. The Haverstock Tavern adds classic pub comfort with excellent roasts and live sport, while ONE75 in West Hampstead offers a more modern twist with craft cocktails and live music in a chic setting.
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