The Holly Bush
A charming 18th-century historic pub in Hampstead, offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious gastropub fare, and a taste of traditional London. [^R1...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cozy atmosphere, fewer crowds
The Holly Bush
Best Time
Cozy atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 18th-century historic pub in Hampstead, offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious gastropub fare, and a taste of traditional London.
"A cosy 18th-century pub in a beautiful part of London, The Holly Bush is charming from the moment you arrive. "
🎯 Book Your Table Online
Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Walk-ins may be difficult to accommodate. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Explore Hampstead First
The pub is in a beautiful area. Wander Hampstead Heath or the village before your meal. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic 18th-Century Ambiance
Throughout the pub
Step back in time with rich wood paneling, fireplaces, and classic decor. A truly authentic London pub feel.
Gastropub Dining Experience
Restaurant areas
Enjoy delicious, well-prepared gastropub fare, from classic dishes to seasonal specials.
Cozy Fireplace Seating
Bar and dining areas
Warm up by the inviting fireplaces, perfect for a chilly London day or evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Hampstead Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Table Online
Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Walk-ins may be difficult to accommodate. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Explore Hampstead First
The pub is in a beautiful area. Wander Hampstead Heath or the village before your meal. :hiking_boot:
💰 Prices Can Be High
Drinks and some main courses can be pricey. Consider this for budgeting your visit. :moneywithwings:
✨ Cozy & Historic Vibe
Embrace the traditional decor and warm atmosphere. It's a key part of the experience. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Table Online
Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Walk-ins may be difficult to accommodate. :admission_tickets:
🚶 Explore Hampstead First
The pub is in a beautiful area. Wander Hampstead Heath or the village before your meal. :hiking_boot:
💰 Prices Can Be High
Drinks and some main courses can be pricey. Consider this for budgeting your visit. :moneywithwings:
✨ Cozy & Historic Vibe
Embrace the traditional decor and warm atmosphere. It's a key part of the experience. :sparkles:
🎤 Ariana Grande Connection
This is the pub Ariana Grande mentioned! A fun fact for fans visiting. +1 :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Holly Bush is celebrated for its stunning 18th-century historic charm, cozy atmosphere, and delicious gastropub food, making it a beloved spot in Hampstead. While many praise the ambiance and quality of dishes, some find the main course portions a bit small and the prices on the higher side. Despite minor critiques, it's widely recommended for its unique character and overall enjoyable experience.
"Stunning pub/restaurant on such a cute hill in Notting Hill. The atmosphere in December in the restaurant is so festive and lovely.
The food was amazing, however I'd say the main courses, in particular the pasta, were rather small in size and an increase in portion sizes would make the experience perfect. The apple crumble for dessert was amazing and a great size!
A glass of mulled wine was £10, so if you drank quite a few drinks, it would be pretty expensive but the place is lovely.
Overall the place was great, but when I leave still feeling a bit hungry, I can't give somewhere 5 stars when it's quite expensive."
Gareth Hayes
"A cosy 18th-century pub in a beautiful part of London, The Holly Bush is charming from the moment you arrive, with lush plants outside and a warm, elegant interior that feels like a second home. I only stopped in for a drink, but the food looked great and the Cornish Orchards cider I had was lovely. The décor is gorgeous, classic wood, a stunning sunroof, and plenty of character (even a quirky old coat stand!). Service was friendly, though the bathroom did have some mould on the ceiling. Easy to reach from the nearby station and definitely worth visiting… no surprise Ariana Grande came here."
Out On Tap
"Had an absolute brilliant time at the Holly Bush in Hampstead.
It had been on my bucket list for ages and as this was my first trip to London I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss out.
We arrived an hour before our booking and grabbed a table in the front bar and took in the ambiance over a couple of cocktails.
We then went upstairs for our lunch, everything was so delicious and the service was fantastic.
Would highly recommend."
Tanya Gosztyla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nearest Tube station is Hampstead on the Northern Line. From there, it's a short walk to the pub, which is tucked away on a charming street.
Yes, it's well-connected by the London Underground (Hampstead station) and local bus routes, making it convenient to reach.
Street parking in Hampstead can be very limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the pub.
Taking the Tube to Hampstead station and then enjoying a short, scenic walk is the most straightforward and pleasant way to arrive.
Yes, The Holly Bush is conveniently located near Hampstead Heath, making it a perfect stop after a walk or hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book a table in advance, especially for evenings and weekends, as the pub is very popular.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the pub is open daily for drinks and food. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date times.
No, there is no entrance fee to enter The Holly Bush pub. You only pay for food and drinks.
You can certainly visit The Holly Bush just for drinks. There are bar areas where you can enjoy a beverage without a dining reservation.
The pub occasionally hosts events or offers specials, particularly around holidays. Following their social media is a good way to stay informed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Holly Bush offers classic gastropub fare, including traditional dishes, roasts on Sundays, and seasonal specials.
Some reviewers mention that main courses, particularly pasta, can be on the smaller side, while desserts like apple crumble are well-portioned.
The Holly Bush is considered a gastropub, and prices for main courses can be on the higher side, with dishes like fish and chips costing around £24.
Yes, Sunday roasts are a highlight at The Holly Bush and are highly recommended by visitors.
While specific options aren't detailed in all reviews, gastropubs typically offer vegetarian choices. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire directly.
🎫 🍺 Drinks & Ales
The pub offers a solid selection of premium lagers, local London brews, and cask ales, as well as cocktails and wine.
Prices for drinks, such as a pint of Amstel, can be on the higher side, with a glass of mulled wine costing around £10.
Yes, The Holly Bush features local London brews alongside other popular options.
The atmosphere is described as welcoming and cozy, with a relaxing ambiance perfect for enjoying a drink.
Yes, cocktails are available, and some visitors have enjoyed them before their meals.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
Absolutely! The historic wood paneling, fireplaces, and charming decor make it very photogenic, especially during festive seasons.
It's known for its cozy, warm, and elegant interior, historic charm, and the feeling of being in a village inn despite its London location.
Yes, the interlinked rooms, detailed decor, and fireplaces offer many opportunities for great photos.
The intimate dining rooms and cozy ambiance make it a popular choice for romantic evenings.
Evenings can be particularly atmospheric with the lighting, but daytime visits offer good natural light and a relaxed feel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during lunchtime or earlier in the evening to ensure a more relaxed experience. While specific children's menus aren't highlighted, gastropubs often have options that can cater to younger palates. The proximity to Hampstead Heath also makes it a great spot for a family outing, combining a walk with a meal.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Evenings
Enjoy a delightful meal with a selection of fine ales and wines, followed by a cozy drink by the fireplace. Booking a table in advance is crucial to secure a prime spot for a special occasion.
🍺 Beer Enthusiasts
While prices can be a bit higher, the quality of the beer and the authentic pub atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for any beer lover exploring Hampstead.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Walking into The Holly Bush is like entering a different era. The interior is divided into several interlinked rooms, creating intimate dining spaces and a welcoming bar area. Features like fireplaces and quirky decor add to its character.
Even the exterior, with its lush plants, hints at the charm within. The pub's location in Hampstead, a historic village within London, further enhances its appeal. It’s a place where you can truly soak in the history and enjoy a relaxed, old-world experience.
The Gastropub Experience
While the food is generally well-received, some patrons note that main course portions can be on the smaller side, particularly for pasta dishes. However, the overall quality and preparation are consistently commended.
Beyond the food, the pub also boasts a solid selection of drinks, including cask ales, local London brews, and premium lagers. While prices for both food and drinks can be on the higher side, many feel the quality of the dining experience and the unique atmosphere justify the cost.
Ariana Grande's London Haunt
This connection has made The Holly Bush a bit of a pilgrimage site for her fans, adding another layer of interest to its already considerable charm. Many visitors come specifically because of this celebrity endorsement, eager to experience the same atmosphere that Grande has spoken fondly of.
While the pub is a beloved local spot with a rich history and excellent food, the Ariana Grande connection certainly adds a unique talking point and draws a specific demographic of visitors looking to connect with their favorite artist's experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit