The Old Bull and Bush: a practical, locally written guide, what to know, where to go, and how to plan your visit.
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.
- 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.
Making the Most of It
'Down at the Old Bull and Bush' became a national singalong, cementing the pub's place in popular culture. Worth knowing before you go, rather than discovering it the hard way on the day.
Good to Know Before You Go
Today it remains a welcoming Heath-side stop, trading happily on its remarkable heritage. None of it is complicated, but a little planning goes a long way here.
Practical Tips
- The Old Bull and Bush, on the Heath's northern edge, is one of Hampstead's most storied pubs
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Old Bull and Bush famous?
It inspired the popular Edwardian music-hall song 'Down at the Old Bull and Bush', which made the pub nationally known and remains its enduring claim to fame.
Where is the Old Bull and Bush?
On North End Way, on the northern edge of Hampstead Heath, near Golders Hill Park.
How old is the Old Bull and Bush?
Its origins reach back several centuries, with a long history as a Heath-side inn and reputed associations with the painter William Hogarth.
Final Thoughts
There is more to The Old Bull and Bush than first meets the eye, and a little local knowledge, exactly what this guide has set out to give, goes a long way. Go in prepared, leave room to wander, and you'll get far more from it than any quick description suggests.
