The Old Bull and Bush: The Hampstead Pub That Inspired a Song
The Old Bull and Bush, on the Heath's northern edge, is one of Hampstead's most storied pubs, immortalised in a famous music-hall song. That single fact shapes much of what follows, and it's the first thing worth getting straight. This guide sets out what's actually worth knowing, in plain terms.
Key Takeaways
- The Old Bull and Bush, on the Heath's northern edge, is one of Hampstead's most storied pubs, immortalised in a famous music-hall song
- Its history stretches back centuries, reputedly with links to the painter William Hogarth
- 'Down at the Old Bull and Bush' became a national singalong, cementing the pub's place in popular culture
- Today it remains a welcoming Heath-side stop, trading happily on its remarkable heritage
The Short Answer
The Old Bull and Bush, on the Heath's northern edge, is one of Hampstead's most storied pubs, immortalised in a famous music-hall song. That single fact shapes much of what follows, and it's the first thing worth getting straight.
What Locals Know
Its history stretches back centuries, reputedly with links to the painter William Hogarth. It's the kind of local knowledge that turns a decent visit into a genuinely good one.