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SELECTED RESTAURANT

The Bull and Last

London, United Kingdom

The Bull and Last: A Quintessential London Gastropub Experience in Hampstead Heath Area - British Cuisine, Cozy Atmosphere, and More at 168 Highgate Road, London NW5 1QS UK.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of London NW5, The Bull and Last stands as a beloved gastropub that masterfully blends traditional British charm with contemporary culinary flair. Located conveniently near Gospel Oak train station and adjacent to the scenic Hampstead Heath, this gastropub offers a welcoming retreat for locals and travelers alike. With its wood-paneled walls adorned with stuffed animals and bull heads, the venue exudes a cozy yet refined ambiance, perfect for enjoying a hearty British menu.

Exceptional dining with dietary inclusivity and diverse offerings

The Bull and Last prides itself on delivering an outstanding dining experience, catering thoughtfully to various dietary needs including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Patrons have applauded the attentive staff for their detailed guidance through menu choices, ensuring everyone can find something delightful to savor. Signature dishes such as the lamb pasta and classic fish and chips highlight the menu's commitment to traditional British flavors with an upmarket twist. Whether you’re joining for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or their famous Sunday roast, the gastropub promises consistently delicious and well-presented meals.

Warm ambiance and versatile hospitality

The style of The Bull and Last strikes a perfect balance between contemporary design and classic pub elements, featuring a fireplace and tasteful décor that create a cozy yet sophisticated setting. Guests often note the gentrified, friendly crowd and the relaxed atmosphere that welcomes families, groups, and solo diners alike. This gastropub also doubles as a boutique hotel, adding to its appeal for travelers seeking comfort and character under one roof. With outdoor seating, dog-friendly policies on the ground floor, and a welcoming environment for children, it caters to a broad community.
  • Is The Bull & Last dog-friendly? Yes, The Bull & Last welcomes dogs on the ground floor; it’s best to call ahead to ensure accommodation for your furry friend.
  • What are the Sunday roast hours? Sunday roasts are served from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Evening bookings are for the daily changing à la carte menu.
  • Do they offer takeaway options? Yes, takeaway options include hampers, seasonal ice cream, takeaway fish & chips in the evening, and canapés (subject to availability).

Community sentiment and highlights

Reviews from patrons consistently reflect a positive community sentiment, highlighting The Bull and Last’s attentive service, excellent food quality, and inviting atmosphere. Guests appreciate the gastropub’s ability to cater to varied tastes and dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor or hospitality. The warm, friendly environment paired with a sense of tradition and modernity makes it a standout destination for locals and visitors seeking a genuine taste of British dining culture near Hampstead Heath.

The Bull and Last: A Historic London Gem with Timeless Charm and Modern Comforts

Nestled in the heart of London on Highgate Road, The Bull and Last stands as a captivating testament to British pub heritage, blending centuries-old history with contemporary elegance. Established as a coaching inn in 1721, this iconic pub has been a beloved gathering place across generations, offering visitors and locals alike a quintessential English gastropub experience enriched by its storied past and warm atmosphere. The Bull and Last has continually evolved while maintaining its historic charm, making it a standout destination for those seeking authentic British cuisine and a welcoming ambiance.

A rich timeline of enduring legacy

Tracing its origins back to 1721, The Bull and Last began its journey as a coaching inn, serving travelers and locals during a time when horse-drawn coaches were a primary mode of transportation. This early role positioned the pub as a vital social hub in London’s vibrant community life.
  • 1721 - The Bull & Last established as a coaching inn serving travelers in London.
  • 1883 - Rebuilt in its current form, giving the pub its historic architectural character.
  • 2011 - Earned prestigious recognition by winning Best Sunday Lunch from Observer Food Monthly Awards.
  • 2018 - Underwent a major refurbishment to modernize the space, including the addition of guest rooms.
  • 2019 - Reopened with enhanced facilities, blending historic ambiance with contemporary guest comfort.

Historic charm meets modern hospitality

Today, The Bull and Last captivates guests with its wood-paneled walls, classic stuffed animal décor, and a cozy fireplace that harks back to its rich history. The interior design elegantly nods to the pub’s heritage while incorporating contemporary elements that appeal to a diverse clientele.
The pub’s transformation into a boutique hotel with guest rooms in 2019 has elevated its status to a premier destination not only for dining but also for refined lodging. Its location near Hampstead Heath and Gospel Oak train station makes it easily accessible, inviting both local Londoners and travelers to enjoy a welcoming atmosphere paired with superb British cuisine.

Why The Bull and Last continues to enchant visitors

  • Authentic British Experience - Savor traditional British dishes in an atmosphere rich with history and character.
  • Historically Significant Architecture - Enjoy the beautifully preserved 19th-century design that reflects its rich past.
  • Warm, Welcoming Staff - Experience attentive and friendly service that makes every guest feel at home.
  • Perfect Location - Conveniently situated near Hampstead Heath and public transport for easy access.

The Bull and Last

Located at 168 Highgate Rd, London NW5 1QS, The Bull and Last is a charming gastropub that offers a delightful blend of contemporary British cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. With its wood-paneled walls and eclectic decor, this establishment is perfect for both casual diners and those seeking a more refined experience. The pub is also a boutique hotel, making it a unique destination for visitors to the area.
The Bull and Last has garnered positive reviews for its attentive service and delicious food, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. The establishment serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on seasonal menus that highlight local suppliers.

Pros

• Comfortable country pub atmosphere • Contemporary British cuisine • Attentive service • Dog-friendly • Guest rooms available • Seasonal menus • Sunday roasts • Live music • Outdoor seating • Wheelchair access • Family-friendly • Private dining room • Indoor fireplace • Full bar • Craft beer selection • EV charging nearby • WiFi access • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served • Takeaway options • Picnic hampers available • Pub quiz on Sundays • Use of local suppliers

Cons

• Reservations recommended due to popularity • Service can be slow during peak times

Ideal for

• Family gatherings • Casual dining with friends • Special occasions • Weekend brunch

Things to know before visiting

• The pub can get busy, especially on weekends, so making a reservation is advisable. • The menu features gluten-free options, and staff are knowledgeable about dietary restrictions. • Outdoor seating is available, perfect for enjoying a sunny day.

Overall impression

The Bull and Last stands out as a welcoming gastropub that successfully combines a relaxed atmosphere with high-quality food and service. Its commitment to using local suppliers and seasonal ingredients enhances the dining experience, making it a notable spot in London. Whether you're stopping by for a hearty Sunday roast or a casual dinner, this pub is sure to leave a lasting impression.

the bull and last london gastropub experience at highgate road NW5 1QS UK

Nestled next to the sprawling Hampstead Heath in London, The Bull and Last offers a stellar gastropub experience that artfully combines traditional British charm with contemporary flair. Set in a charming building at 168 Highgate Road, this venue is a beloved hotspot for foodies, locals, and visitors craving authentic British cuisine with a modern twist.

distinctive dining and hospitality highlights

The Bull and Last is well-regarded for its warm, wood-panelled interiors adorned with mounted bull heads and stuffed animals, evoking a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. Whether you’re settling in for a hearty Sunday roast or enjoying an afternoon bite, the ambience strikes a perfect balance between upmarket design and historic pub character.
Gluten-free and vegetarian options are thoughtfully catered for, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure dietary needs are met, making it a welcoming spot for all guests.

menu specialties and pricing

Offering everything from breakfast to dinner, The Bull and Last serves an array of British classics and contemporary dishes. Customers rave about the succulent Sunday Roasts, featuring traditional meat cuts served with all the trimmings, available from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm for £20. During the afternoon, guests can enjoy a curated menu of lighter fare including fresh sandwiches and vibrant salads, also priced at £20.
  • Sunday Roasts - Traditional British roasts with all the trimmings, served Sundays from 12:30 pm to 4 pm.
  • Afternoon Menu - Selection of lighter dishes such as sandwiches and salads, perfect for a casual midday meal.

what to expect from your visit

The Bull and Last stands out not only for its menu but also for its exceptional service and inclusive environment. Families with children are welcome, and the venue features a dedicated children’s menu. Dog lovers will appreciate that pets are allowed, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed outing.
Conveniently located near Gospel Oak train station, it offers both indoor seating and pleasant outdoor options for warmer days. The bar serves an excellent range of beers, wines, and cocktails, ideal for savoring a drink after exploring Hampstead Heath or the vibrant local neighborhood.
  • Booking advised especially on weekends, as the pub is popular and can fill up quickly.
  • Multiple payment options including NFC, credit and debit cards, ensuring smooth transactions.

British

££

Open now - Closing 11:00 PM

Monday

12:00–23:00

Tuesday

12:00–23:00

Wednesday

12:00–23:00

Thursday

12:00–23:00

Friday

12:00–00:00

Saturday

09:00–00:00

Sunday

09:00–22:00

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