The George is one of the more prominent pubs in Belsize Park due, in part, to the large crowds it draws for its live sports coverage.

The Venue
Just a short walk away from Belsize Park tube station, The George makes its presence known with its large Tudor-style front and the numerous blackboards displaying the day’s specials and all the other things you’ll be missing out on if you don’t walk through its front doors. There are also a few picnic tables outside and loud cheers inside whenever the football is on.

As you walk in, the bar is directly in front of you and to your right is a carpeted lounge-like seating area with a plasma television hanging over a fireplace. During the day, the TV is tuned to MTV Hits; however, if The Hits isn’t delivering the goods then it gets muted and a fine selection of easy listening is played through the pub’s speakers. Next to the TV is a blackboard with a list of the up and coming fixtures for the sporting fans, and a few low-slung leather sofas and several comfortable looking chairs all point at the TV. Further into the pub, there is a small section with a few high chairs and tables and then another lounge-like area towards the back.

No matter where you've chosen to sit you’ll be able to spot one of the three TVs, and if you fancy your chances there are three fruit machines to try your luck on. At the back of the pub there is a small beer garden – it’s not especially amazing but it does the job.

The Atmosphere
The pubs in Hampstead and Belsize Park often attract a pompous, pious and self righteous crowd. However, The George isn’t like that at all; it’s far more gritty - especially when there’s a big football match on. During the day, you’ll find all kinds of people in here including the old red-faced gentleman, men in suits, and young mothers with their babies sipping on Coronas as the clock strikes twelve noon. Other than the sport there’s an open mic night on the last Thursday of every month.

The Food
The menu at The George isn’t spectacular but it’s decent enough and the prices aren’t bad. The starters come in at around £4 and the mains £7. Some of the pies (£6.75) sound interesting and come with fillings like steak and bombardier ale, steak and mushroom, chicken and bacon, and mince and onion. There’s also a small list of puddings at around £4 each.

The Drink
Old Speckled Hen, Green King IPA and London Pride are on draught whilst those who like their beer super chilled will be looking at the Fosters, Kronenberg, John Smiths and Guinness. They also serve Staropramen, Leffe and Hoegarden as well as a selection of bottled ciders.

The Last Word
The George has a lot to offer but feels like it’s lacking something. Perhaps it’s the way in which the tables and chairs have been arranged, maybe it’s the decor, or it could just be the music. It’s hard to tell but there can be no denying that The George is definitely one of the most popular pubs in the area.

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