This pub may be a little tricky to find at first, but persevere – The Holly Bush is worthy of the effort.

The Venue
When you step out of Hampstead station, why not take a walk up that little one-way street that you’ve always eyed but never investigated? There may not be any shops and it’s a steep hill, but a few minutes of walking will reward you with a stop off at The Holly Bush pub. The pub lies nestled in a little mews with cottage-like terraced homes all around, giving it a real homely feel.

Inside, the venue is much larger than you would expect. The size of the bar, coupled with the number of staff swarming behind it, gives the impression that this pub is a favourite amongst the locals. There are two distinct seating sections - as you walk in, there is ample space for you and your friends to have a drink with a decent selection of different sized tables. If you walk round the back of the bar you will come across a huge dining area that centres round a massive communal table in the middle of the room. However, if you prefer a little more privacy there are loads of smaller tables, too.

The Atmosphere
Spirits are always high at The Holly Bush - both in front of and behind the bar. This is, in part, thanks to the staff who are young and full of life - much like most of the pub’s visitors. Families often drop in for a meal while local students sip on their pints as they discuss what prospects await them when they graduate. Expect a large mix of locals using the venue for a social drink; however, never fear, there’s none of the cliqueyness you might expect – this place is open to all.

The Food
The dining area suggests that the food attracts a lot of people. Although it’s fairly pricey, the quality of the food warrants the cost with a range of quality ingredients and organic meats. The asking price for a starter is around £6, after which you can tuck into one of their main courses. Whether you like lamb, chicken, salmon fillet, quail or steak, you’ll find a dish that suits your tastes - and don’t worry if you’re of the vegetarian persuasion as your needs have been well catered for as well. Nothing is overcomplicated, keeping to the philosophy of quality pub grub, making the experience of dining here a pleasant one.

The Drink
Those that like their beers, ales and spirits will be happy here. The selection is huge and lining the back of the bar are three shelves, each about the length of Michael Jordan lying down, heaving with bottles of spirits. Beer lovers will be especially pleased by the choice of Adnams Bitter and Broadside, Harveys Bitter, and London Pride on offer, alongside a regularly changing guest ale. Prices are pretty average for the area, with a pint costing upwards of £3.

The Last Word
This pub is the hidden gem of Hampstead, a location where standards are high. The food is scrumptious, the drinks are in abundance and the atmosphere is buzzing. What more could you possibly ask for?

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