The best pubs in Hampstead

The sign outside announces ‘ale, cider, meat’, and that pretty much sums up what’s on offer at the best pub in Gospel Oak, just south of Hampstead Heath. The interior might make you think it’s still 1936, which is all part of its charm. Don't miss out on the best bar snack in London; the pork bap, complete with crackling and apple sauce. The roster of lovingly tended ales and ciders, all from small independent producers, changes regularly. Heaven in pub form. 

This historic pub has a warren of spooky, ye olde rooms that come to atmospheric life at night, but its on a sunny afternoon that this place really gets going. The outdoor courtyard is always rammed during summer and is the best place around to sink a spritz, overlooking the green and former home of late local legend George Michael. 

Most Londoners know the Spaniards Inn – it’s been a feature of Hampstead Heath since 1585, with Keats and Dickens both former quaffers. It remains as atmospheric as you’d hope, with dark panels and low beams stretching through the bar and restaurant rooms. And yes, it is haunted, if you're into that kind of thing.

This beloved neighboorhood spot is perched up on the picturesque cobbled Holly Mount. With a lived-in feel, you'll find Fuller's beers in the three low-ceilinged bar areas, as well as other staples. There are fireplaces and cosy corners, while the food is top notch, too. Just be wary as things can get super, super busy. 

The Duke of Hamilton has been there since 1721 – and at one point was where you'd find the likes of professional drunks/actors Richard Burton, Peter O’Toole and Oliver Reed causing mayhem. You'll still find the legendary Hampstead Jazz Club in the basement, and Sunday roasts and pub quizzes are a popular draw. 

The Sunday lunch at The Wells Tavern is what it's all about, but you'll need to book. If you're just popping in for a pint at this grand Georgian building, though, the bar is wonderfully cosy, and as there's always a splendid variety of beers to choose from, as well as a nifty cocktail menu, too. 

Don't be baffled, but yes, there are two Flasks on either side of the Heath. Blending perfectly with the second-hand bookstores and other arcana along this lovely, narrow pedestrianised passage, this historic but welcoming pub has been spruced up but still retains buckets of character. Decorative accents are provided by scenes from fairytales, black-and-white photos of days out and century-old posters for London Underground, but the best seats are around the tall table facing the picture window.

With gorgeous 1930s wood interiors and stained glass, the Magdala is a local Hampstead hero. There's small and big plates to sustain you through a sesh (mackerel pate, bang bang salad, steak Thursdays and tapas Fridays), and also enough historic clout to keep the nerdiest of pintsmen happy; it was the site where Ruth Ellis, the last women to be hanged in the UK, shot her partner in 1955 (though rumour has it that the 'bullet holes' on the pub's exterior were put there by a landlord looking to pull in tourist trade. 

A lovely gastropub with a gorgeous interior that's just down the road from Hampstead Heath. They're pretty proud of their garden, too - with heated and covered cabanas for year around fresh air. 

This pub is right across the road from the Royal Free Hospital, but it's far more than a safe haven for the hospital staff. Inside you'll find a kitschy but comfy decor and there's plenty of outside space, too. Drinks are varied, too, with some local breweries on tap along with other favourites.