please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Although it is called a Jazz Club it still operates like a pub. Not keen on the refurb. They still sell Hophead and Pride on handpump but the ale quality here has taken a nosedive.
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Alas the Duke is now closed and with it has gone Hampstead's last proper pub.
it is supposedly re-opening in September as a Jazz Club
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Wikipedia have suggested that in times gone by, Oliver Reed, Peter O'Toole, and Richard Burton drank in this pub on a regular basis.
In the late 1970's and early 1980's I drank in this pub on a semi regular basis and never saw , or was told , they had been at the bar.
Although Oliver Reed did have his two front teeth knocked out by a Hampstead Rugby Club player in the 1970's ( at Saracens)
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I was very disappointed with my visit today. Only two beers on today and both in poor condition. The last time I went, in June, there was only two on. The range of beers and quality is on the slide. If the publican wants to make a success of this place, he needs to not only concentrate on putting on gigs/shows but also the ale available.
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With the axe hanging over the nearby White Bear and just about every other pub in the area having succumbed to gastroponceritis or worse still shut down altogether, it's reassuring to know that London's most picturesque suburb still has one decent drinking establishment. It is also virtually unchanged from the days when I used to visit as a teenager in the mid 1980's and my peers would spend the evening baiting a certain Barry Cryer whilst I cringed in the corner.
This afternoon I had a decent pint of Hophead and there were another 3 or 4 ales on, all Fullers (not my bag). Despite the la-di-da location, the clientele on my last couple of visits have been surprisingly down to earth folk - not at all what you'd expect in this part of the world. I'm amazed
this place has survived, let's hope it continues to do so.
Long live the Duke!
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Excellent friendly locals pub hidden behind Heath Street. Unlike most of Hampstead's pubs this is not a restaurant masquerading as a inn. Good pint of Hophead.
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Good pub.
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Oops. No more beer for me today. My post below this one was intended for The Hollybush! Sorry pardon you Dukeness.
The new owners of this place are doing a grand job here. They've tarted up the pub inside and out sympathetically, and there's a good range of ever-changing ales to hold your interest. Reasonably priced too (makes a change for 'Appy 'Ampsted).
Worth a visit or three. Got to dock one point for the London Pride. I know it's popular, but so's MacDonald's. I'm not quite sure why this free house is so keen to give Fuller's bar-space when there are so many micro-brewers to chose from these days. If I were the guvnor there, I'd be happy to leave it to Fullers to pedal their own bland insipid Thames-water.
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I have mixed feelings about this place. It is very food-orientated these days and best avoided at weekends altogether, when it can become something of a Baby-buggy Derby.
And when Wetherspoon's, not too far away, are currently selling Adnams Broadside at �1.99, I don't call �4 for a pint of Harvey's bitter good value.
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One of only three remaining proper pubs in Hampstead though the locals of Hampstead seem disinterested and there was only two other souls in when I ventured in. They had a few out of the usual ales on and both the Brakspears Marshmellow and Pendle Witches Brew were both good pints.
anonymous - 10 May 2012 18:18 |
Pretty good pub, caters for all and one of a few pubs left in Hampstead.
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beerman44: having read your last 14 reviews of which 13 are negative ( the one positive review then states that all other pubs in the area ,Cheam, are poor) I suggest you would be much better off keeping out of public places and staying indoors where I am sure you would be happier!
By the way your assumption regarding the Manager is wrong, She does not smoke!
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oh dear another pub that declares itself the last remaining "pub" left in the area ,is this a new advertising ploy?read the advert in the london drinker ,so i thought lets go and see ,well what can i say the beer on the night that i visited was very poor and the person who i assumed was the manager spent all his time smoking and drinking what a great advert . best avoid!
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visited today - good pint of pride...it is a triumph for all concerned that this has remained a traditional london pub
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Seven months down the line and it appears the pub is settling down into a really nice proper boozer. The newest guvnor has settled in nicely and looks like he is here for the long term, always friendly and open to ides. Drinks are fine (even the real ales so I am told), Sunday roasts have sold out for the past two weeks and other food also available towards the end of the week. One customer who asked for food on Monday was told that the kitchen was closed but the accepted the offer of a toasted cheese sandwich! not something Woody would have done. Definately worth a visit when in Hampstead.
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I tend to agree with biertrinker. I used to visit the Duke in it's previous life and quite enjoyed its uncompromising grumpy charm. It now feels a bit tacky and directionless - like a theme pub in search of a theme.
Come back, Woody, all is forgiven...
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The first thing to say is that the new management of this pub, under The Cock (!), is still keeping an excellent cellar to high standard, though the number of guest ales has reduced from four to two. Sadly the rest of the recent story is not so encouraging and there are signs of an increasingly unhappy atmosphere. In the short five months of The Cock's reign, the original very pleasant manager has left, as has the chef (not replaced, so very little food now), two long standing bar staff and now the replacement manager. Staff turnover is on the high side. The pub is seldom as busy as it was under the old regime, partly due, perhaps, to The Cock's insistence that there be unsuitable recorded pop music played, often on the loud side. The pub looks good in its new dark red livery, but very little welcoming atmosphere is created by the management.
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As mentioned previously, the only proper pub left in Hampstead village. I was in there on a midweek afternoon on 23 June and was served by a beautiful French girl who was lovely and knew all about the beer. Obviously I love her, but I digress...support this pub otherwise it will be converted to flats or worse, it could end up on its knees like the Polar Bear down the road and that would be tragic.
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The only 'local' left in Hampstead village. Excellent beer, friendly staff, and outside seating at both front and back. Highly recommended, and a welcome refuge from the sort of pretentious twit too often found in this locale. Haven't tried the food, but it looks like fairly basic pub grub.
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Cock by name...
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Great to see this place has survived. Enjoyed a couple of visits this week, when work brought me to north London. Interesting range of ales including Adnam's Lighthouse (which was in superb condition), Moorhouse's Blonde Witch and a strong Elgood's ale plus Pride. Well worth a visit.
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"The new landlord's hype said that �170,000 had been spent on the refurb. After paying a visit it is hard to see where a tenth of that has gone but that's not such a bad thing."
My guess is the basement and improving the kitchen?
God am I grateful they haven't turned this into another disgraceful restaurant masquerading as a pub (see old white bear, wells etc etc). In the last couple of years pre refurb, it has become very tired in here, but things are back on track. Good beer and good food, but as before one or two of the regulars would do well to remember this is a public house.
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The new landlord's hype said that �170,000 had been spent on the refurb. After paying a visit it is hard to see where a tenth of that has gone but that's not such a bad thing.
The guv'nor Steve (or 'The Cock' as I've heard he refers to himself) has spruced up the place, painted the outside (red), laid new carpets (red), redecorated the interior (red) and redone the toilets (you guessed - red) although for the aforementioned sum perhaps they didn't have to remain outside! Having said that, the pub is thankfully still a pub.
Ales are varied and excellent, carrying on the tradition for which the Duke had a reputation. London Pride is back on, even though the new landlord refused to stock it at first. The top shelf could be a little bigger but there is food where there was none before; fish & chips, sausage & mash etc. The Scotch Eggs too are rather nice. On the whole it's a vast improvement on the tired place it had become.
I'm sure after a while the pub will regain its lived-in feel as at the moment it feels very new. And once the regulars have regained their territory and shown 'The Cock' the path he should tread, this will be a very nice pub indeed!
Definitely worth a visit!
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So far so good. No major changes to the interior and decent ale (even a few guests). It was pretty busy last night with a youngish decent natured crowd.
anonymous - 7 Mar 2011 16:26 |
Re-opened on the 1st. of March, 2011. Sister-pub to THE BARNSBURY, Barnsbury, N.1, with both under the ownership of THE THREE BOOZERS LTD. A mild and very-sympathetic internal and external refurbishment, with much of the original features retained. It now has a permanent hot-food offering, but this does not dominate. Six hand-pumps; five micro-brewery and smaller-family-brewer cask ales. The cellar bar has been brought into general usage.
********************************************************************
The re-launched Duke of Hamilton is way better than I had feared. Woody's will always be Woody's~we'll miss him, but whether you like it or not, things move on.
When I walked up the steps, and opened the door I didn't know what would confront me, but it was OK: no uniformed or black-trousers-white-shirt/black-skirt-white-blouse, etc staff; some familiar faces, including some staff; food now on offer, but not dominant; five interesting cask ales. Time will tell how things will pan out, but cautiously optimistic.
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I went in there once, a few years ago. Maybe it didn't have much prententiousness, but it didn't have much friendliness either. Or any atmosphere of any kind--it was just boring. Didn't particularly enjoy my pint, didn't see a reason to go back. So the new changes are a no-lose situation, IMO: either it will remain a pub I don't go to (just for different reasons), or maybe, just maybe, it will turn into something OK...
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Sounds good to me.
Sounds good to me.
Sounds good to me. lol
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Now been sold to the owners of "the Barnsbury" in Liverpool Rd who take over in January. Fod in cellar bar and on 1st floor but bar should stay the same following a refurb, Thats the story so far anyway!
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I once caught the barman here pouring the contents of the slops trays into my glass, though this was about 20 years ago; I vowed never to go again.
WIth the slops fiasco a distant memory, a recent visit has determined that despite being surrounded by wealth, this historic pub still remains resolutely downmarket and joyless with precious little to recommend it; now that the White Bear down the road is more restaurant than pub, head up the road to the Holly Bush and experience a real pub.
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The Seafarers is excellent, but there is no atmosphere at all and you do feel all eyes upon you when you walk into a silent pub. Despite advertising Sky Sports the poor chap who asked for the TV to be turned on was rebuked by the Landlord saying no as he didn't like football!
On the plus side this is definitely a working class pub... maybe they just don't like the tourists.
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This pub was a breath of fresh air after the Old White Bear down the road. Quick, friendly service with a smile, a lovely well kept pint of ESB and a jovial clientele of normal, down to earth people. And it's cheaper too!
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This is the one working-class pub in the area, but contrary to popular belief, this is in fact the least friendly pub in Hampstead. For friendly locals and interesting characters, the public bar (left-side) of the nearby Flask is by far the better option. Furthermore the staff here at the Duke are in my experience unfriendly, esp. that Northern girl, if she's still there. On several occassions I've seen her poke sniggering fun at clients with her male colleague. What kind of behaviour is that? The sort of behaviour that a pub SHOULD be shut down for, that's what kind.
In spite of that, and the fact that I will never set foot into this dive again, I do support the campaign to keep it open. Without it, the riff-raff will start flooding the respectable establishments in the area. What a thought...
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Foghorn, I see your profile states your age to be 159 - so you'll know all about the smell of death....
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Somewhere that's actually a pub primarily there to serve people a pint of beer rather than somewhere to hang out and be seen in the latest designer shite. Had a couple of pints of the Gale's Seafrarer which went down quite nicely. It seems everywhere I go that I like is under threat these days. If this place does go, if it doesn't become flats it will end up another puke inducing hole like the Well.
anonymous - 6 Jun 2010 21:37 |
The landlord (or at least the ex-landlord) of this pub is extraordinarily rude. You'll see him mentioned many times in these reviews, usually in the context of insulting his customers or just being surly as he lurks at the bar, in the gloom. But despite several visits (I live round the corner) I hadn't witnessed him in action, until this weekend, when I was treated to the most obnoxious display I've ever witnessed from a pub owner. Too long a story to tell, but suffice to say that he has absolutely zero customer skills, a foul temper and an apparent distaste for anybody under 30 (especially children), especially if it appears they're not 'local'. While others on this site have tried to excuse him as a 'character', he's obviously a complete embarassment to his staff (who, to be fair, came out to apologise to us afterwards) and I imagine to his son (who is currently running the place, and is supposed to be an OK bloke). A pity because the beer is good and the terrace nice on a Sumemr day - but with so many pubs to choose from, he's committing commercial suicide by being so obnoxious to so many people.
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empty apart from me at when i went in midweek afternoon expensive 3-20 for esb would not go in again
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Looking at the ales on offer I would guess that it is a Fuller�s pub � London Pride, ESB; and Chiswick. Nonetheless I just couldn�t resist the temptation of what must be a guest ale, in the form of Meantime Pale Ale. And excellent it was too, and at a very competitive price of �2.60 a pint. This pub is somewhat off the beaten track, and it�s less pretentious than some of its near neighbours. Stools at the bar, banquettes round the sides, and wood topped iron framed tables complete the furniture inventory. There was a TV on showing the news, for the benefit of the Guv�nor and I, who were the only people in there. The bar gantry is adorned with some interesting leaded lights, and advertising �ports�, �sherries� etc. it looks a bit 70s to me, but I think that it adds to the character of the place. The blue and white tiles under the bar counter are also an interesting feature, including a handful of tiles advertising products from yesteryear � the one I noticed was for �Zebra Grate Polish�. I thought at first that it might be a reference to the great Polish nation; but not so � just some archaic product that probably hasn�t seen the light of day for many a year. There�s also a few picnic benches on a raised patio at the front of the pub.
This strikes me as an unpretentious backstreet pub, serving decent ale at decent prices. A good bet � yet another Hampsted pub definitely worth a visit.
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Went in here Saturday lunchtime. Contrary to the GBG, it only opens at midday. Tried all 3 of the festival ciders from the previous weekend - Crippledick, Millwhites Dabinett and Millwhites Yarlington Mill. Alongside the regular London Pride & ESB, the two guest ales on offer were a Fullers Summer Ale and Cains Mild. Westons Old Rosie cider is also on permanently. The guy in charge was friendly and chatty (apparently Richard the owner was away). The pub was very quiet, with only the Sky TV to keep us company. Although we were very early. The interior was pleasant and comfortable. I will return, but only when the ciders are present!
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I can see both sides of the argument : there are a few eccentrics floating around, but they generally only want a wry word and pointing in the right direction as they shuffle off to the toilet. More importantly it's an excellent pub for drinkers, with variety, well kept ale, competitive prices and honest cheap food. The landlord and staff seemed affable and helpful to me. Thats most of my boxes ticked.
Might be one to avoid in the evening if the fruitcake count goes up, but as an uncomplicated afternoon boozer, hard to beat.
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Foghorn, you must be some kind of idiot.
On one level you are correct, and if you visited this pub more often, rather than this ill informed snap shot of a review you would know that i am one of the biggest supporters of LOCAL small breweries in the area. i dont just get cheap crap from the hinterland of yorkshire because it is off a brewery list and will often taste as such.
Secondly you missed the Mild we had on, as part of CAMRA mild month as well as the 3 Ciders from Hertfordshire, which i doubt very much you would have seen in any other pub in North London.
Lastly, one goes into a pub for the good beer and one hopes the great atmosphere. Dont knock a pub for selling a local seasonal good beer, there are so many pubs out there that serve shit.
Cheers Woody, (Richard)
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Well I have to say, not bad. Value for money and a friendly ambiance. But if this is a Fullers pub in disguise we should be told. Called in the other day, after a long march over the heath, and the beers on offer were, from left to right, ESB, London Pride, London Pride and Fullers Summer Ale. Most disappointing.
Lack of imagination or what? Give the Micro's a look-in Richard... it's a big world out there.
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Visited last night for the cider and perry festival. Over 10 real ciders/perries in tubs to choose from down in the cellar and they also had Westons and bottles of Aspalls. Real ales were Fullers Pride, Esb and Summer Ale with Cains Mild also. Bottles of Chimay and Duvel too.
Great pub and the landlord seems really enthusiastic.
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Excellent pub, great atmosphere, good well kept beer selection. Always a guest ale on at �2.50 a pint. Best real pub in Hampstead.
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Fantastic pub, friendly staff and a great selection of beers
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This pub was recently used for the launch of the Hampstead and Highgate real ale pubs guide from CAMRA , the landlord gave us London Pride , ESB and Adnams Oyster Stout were also available , the samosa's and sausages were divine and i know that a certain young lady enjoyed the cashew nuts . Richard did a good job and i look forward to returning in the spring . The guide will be on sale for �2 at the London Drinker next week.
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Best beer buy a mile in the Village, and house spirits at �2.30 for a double ! This is a great local pub, the last in NW3, which plays host to the wide range of degenerates, artists and professionals and, just like the old days. The place is not littered with baby buggies or has the pall of over priced 'gastro food' hanging over it, although the 'hog roasts' in the summer were delicious.
The furniture has had a wonderful refit, let's hope I am still allowed in !
Keep up the good work
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Great pub, great beer and still got a darts board, what more does a pub need. Shame it isn't big enough to have a pool table
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Good community local with reasonable prices. Had Doombar, Fullers London Pride and Chiswick available
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On a pub crawl around Hampstead with a few mates on New Years Eve, and didn't leave. Live music, packed (certainly the busiest pub we went into) what a night, Fantastic.
I see that there are mixed reviewws, either you love it or hate it. I for one love it and will be coming back.
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I once went here after a walk on the Heath. I sat down to enjoy my pint of beer and a well-deserved rest. I was thinking about what I had seen, when my thoughts were interrupted by the landlord coming over to me, shouting at me to 'wake up' and that he didn't want filthy travellers in his pub. I was horribly embarrassed and shocked, and even though a few people at the bar mumbled apologies, I left in a hurry, you can imagine. I would never go back.
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Has everything a good pub should:
Good beer, colourful locals, friendly staff, football on TV.
I moved to Hampstead a year ago and pop in at least once a week. I've never had to deal with any of the unfriendly service I've read about here.
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this pub has been in the Camra Good Beer Guide for 17 years , it's beer is the best in hampstead and Richard AKA woody 2 is one of the nicest landlords i have met .. Last night was a Camra night and we enjoyed Wickwar Station Porter at a great price.This is a true community pub and long may it continue.
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Cheers for all those who came to the Beer festival last weekend. It was a great success, with Ferryman's gold and both of the Skinners beers proving very popular as were FFF Altons Pride and Moondancer: however not all was drunk and we will be offering these bers over the next week.
The next date will be an October fest in late October. More details to follow.
Thanks again and see you soon
Richard
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Getting a little fed up with some of the reviews on here.
Foghorn, you clearly have not come in ever to enjoy the pub, rather if you have you seem to be determined not to like the pub.
This pub is made up with a wide variety of regular customers, some of which I like, some I don't, and some I may not approve of many of their views, or even dress sense, but all add to the rich tapestry and the makeup of this unique pub.
Our beer is without doubt consistantly the best in Hampstead. You could argue that we are hampstead's last local community pub. There is no bull, and no pretentions, just an honest pub.
We show the rugby, football and the cricket.
We have Hampstead's only beer festivals, with over 25 different real ales on offer this weekend and a Hog roasts on Saturday and Sunday.
So Fat and Fog, this is not an umwelcoming pub, infact quite the opposite so either come in try it and eat your words with a Spitroasted pig bap washed down with Alton's Pride (this years CAMRA champion beer) or shut the F..k up.
Cheers all
Richard (Woody)
Ps
Yes the folks have been around. For those that care, I am still a serving soldier, and need to do regular exercises, one could argue so you have the privilage to write on sites like this, but that would be a little, well you know.
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I'm with you there Fats. Every time I go in this place (which aint often) I have to run the gauntlet of stares and snide comments from the little band of mutually supportive idiots (known as the regulars) who cluster around the Guv'nor for protection at the end of the bar. Possibly one of the most unwelcoming pubs I know.
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20 years, eh? Maybe it's time for a change. Having avoided this place like the plague for years the mixed reviews on this site piqued my curiosity and I recently went back and "gave it my best shot". I really shouldn't have bothered...that breath of fresh air smelt pretty fetid to me. What should be a nice traditional old pub actually just feels rather unpleasant, grubby and stained. the only decent service this landlord provides is keeping his particular set of squalid locals away from other pubs in the area. hopefully this review will attract even more of them to become regulars...
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In my opinion the Dule of Hamilton is all that a traditional English public house should be and I am proud that it is my local. Always an excellent choice of real ales, real ciders & perries (cider brewed from pears, not apples) on tap, always in pristine condition,great friendly banter and brilliant atmosphere coupled with excellent service & value for money from Richard & his staff that really are knowledgeable about the wide range of products they sell.
Tell me where else in Hampstead can you get a pint of real ale for �2.50, bottles of wine & champagne for �9.00 and �25.00 respectively and a large house spirit and mixer for just �2.50? At lunchtimes you can sink your teeth into a hearty filled roll for a mere �1.00.
It really pisses me off to read the moranic & insensitive comments that some of you have written about a family who have devoted so much of their working lives to give people such an excellent pub to enjoy.
The "Duke" has been in the same private family ownership for almost twenty years and is the longest-reigning privately-owned free house for miles around so surely the Wooderson family have been doing something right all these years. Michael, well over normal retirement age & wife Mary have now taken more-or-less a back seat, spending most of their well-earned retirement on the south coast and have handed the reigns over to their eldest son Richard who is maintaining the same high standards that we locals have come to enjoy & respect over the years.
Thank God the "Duke" has not followed the masses and gone down the gastro road like so many pubs have. There are only two really traditional pubs in Hampstead (this one and the King William IV) so stop whining and give this place your best shot. Who knows, you may even grow to liking it. Fortunately the "Duke" does not have to rely on strangers and day-trippers since its loyal and very strong customer base does it proud, thank you. However we locals are a very friendly and amusing lot, this some of you will discover if you only give us a chance.
Maybe some of you don't realise that there really is no such thing as bad publicity. In fact, quite the opposite has worked here since the pub has had visitors coming in purely out of curiosity having read bad reviews to the effect that some of them are now quite regular customers!
Fortunately we locals at the "Duke" do not have to put up with gaming machines, pool tables and a juke box. The pub is very much a sporting house with the accent mainly on cricket and rugby, matches being shown on their plasma screen. Traditional pub games such as darts and dominoes are also played. A group of local musicians play sing-along in the main bar on Thursday evenings and the well-stocked basement bar is available for private functions; this also hosts a showcase evening for up-and-coming musicians on Monday evenings.
Recently the pub hosted a cider & perry festival with almost thirty real products on sale together with a hog roast on the front patio that was extremely well supported.
A real ale festival is being planned for September to follow the successes of last year's one and their recent cider & perry event so do yourselves a favour and check out the "Duke"- you won't be disappointed!
So let's have a little less of the negativity in the future and more of a positive attitude!
John Graham
Holford Road
Hampstead Village NW3
John Graham
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Ever since Richard (Woody's son) took over the Duke of Hamilton has been injected with much welcomed breath of fresh air!
The warmth and old school style of the pub is something that is now, as many are all too aware, a rare thing. The staff are young and friendly and help to mix the old with increasing number of younger faces that seem have appeared over the last year or two.
The pub is now making its name with providing a hog roast or lamb roast on a spit outside cooked by Richard...indeed last time the pub was so rammed you couldn't even move.
With the number of real pubs decaying come down to the "Duke" for a pint before its to late.
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Up in Hampstead last Sunday. Lovely day. We were looking for a place to have lunch. Saw landlord's son getting a hog-roast going in the front garden, looked good....Did we go in? No chance. Why? Because the landlord here is abusive to his customers. He sits at the end of the bar surrounded by his crony mates, gradually getting sozzled, and whenever he sees fit, lets go with his big mouth. This will be a nice pub again one day...once that clown has gone.
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This is a local pub for local people, we don't need your sort round here.
If 'character' means obnoxious, bigoted old bores then this pub has it's fair share of character. Smelled a bit like a toilet and the loos smell worse.
As persuasive an argument for gastrofication as you'll find.
gorky - 28 Jul 2008 23:02 |
I want to like this place and have tried my hardest to enjoy it here on numerous occasions for the last 10 or so years. It's a proper boozer of the old school, with a good selection of beer, but it doesn't quite work for me.
The regulars are the priority here, despite some of them being pretty annoying and the decor is tired, rather than traditional. Had a pint of cider here once that had gone pretty badly off and it was, in fairness, replaced, albeit with a lot of muttering from the old landlord. Was accosted by the locals afterwards about how it was obviously my fault for not understanding what cider was. Of course they weren't to know I had been there the week before and had enjoyed the same cider, before it had gone off.
Far too many closed, poncified and gastroed pubs in NW3 leaves the nearby Old White Bear the best of the lot.
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FAO strongers:
"Sorry sweet36, but if anyone can show me a pub landlord that will top up pints of beer that have been brought back to the bar after 2 minutes in the beer garden I will show you a mug!"
we asked for them to be topped up straight after he'd poured them, that is , they were genuine short measures so no harm in asking for them to be topped up.
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The Duke is still a great boozer and dare I say that it is better since Woody Junior has taken over.
Sorry sweet36, but if anyone can show me a pub landlord that will top up pints of beer that have been brought back to the bar after 2 minutes in the beer garden I will show you a mug!
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Richard here, unfortunatly one can not please every person who walks through the door, however the offer of one of the lads at sweet36 table to try and fight dad a man of 68 is a little pathetic. Anyway, most seemed to enjoy the row and laughing at you, it becomes a talking point. Just a small legal issue, a licensee does not have to give a reason to ask someone to leave their premises.
On a positive note, we will be having RSB from Red squirrel Brewery and Doom Bar from Sharps this week solets have some fun.
Woody
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I agree with Chillin. The Duke is a great pub. Long live Woody Long live Richard
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You need to take that foghorn out of your rectum. Like him or not Woody is a character in a world where all too often Blandness seems the accepted. Sure go down to the Bear, enjoy a pint of tepid beer that tastes of vinegar, even better go to a Weatherspoons where you never know who the Gov is.
The fact remains Woody still has the best beer in Hampstead and is the only true local pub left in Hampstead.
Oh and I believe that it is his son Richard who is runnignthe pub and I think he might out live Woody
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I'm with you there sweet36. The opinionated old PRAT of landlord here, who the locals refer to as a "character", is about as funny as a toothache. Bide yer time mate, he can't have long to go. Meanwhile, use the Bear, it's much better.
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What should have been a pleasant and rewarding visit to this pub, I can truely said I have never been so shocked at the Landlord's and his son's attitude towards paying customers. Firstly my friends were served short pints, and when asked for them to be topped up i.e. to pint level, they were treated with resent, abuse, and totally unreasonable behaviour. Not only were their pints poured down the drain, but the landlord continued to be rude to my friends and I. When asked for a refund for the pints poured away, the Landlord informed me that 'this was our problem' 'go and write to .....'. He had blatently used that response before. I had never been treated so poorly, and was embarrassed to have suggested to my friends that we should visit this place, which had received good feedback on this site. The smell of the pub was offensive, and so was the landlords attitude. Do not bother visiting...highly overated!!!
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As featured on The Apprentice. Hopefully the watery spag bol is no longer being served!
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Great boozer... would take my mother, misses and mates
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A fantastic pub in a London where great ale houses are diminishing fast. Very well kept beer....not expensive, especially for Hampstead. I really like the atmosphere here - no piped music...pubs never had musak until the last say forty years in history and it ruins most establishments, in my opinion. I find it hard to relax with canned music in the background - here the occassional jam session goes down well. A model pub don't change it for the world - 10/10.
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Traditional Victorian - style pub in a side street off Heath Street. This pub is well worth seeking out - don't let the rather uninspiring exterior put you off.
This appears to be where the Hampstead locals drink ( having abandoned the Flask ?) - which is always a good sign.
Note the interesting collection of sporting pictures on the walls - and in particular a photo signed by both Mike Gatting and Shane Warne of THAT ball at Old Trafford that so bamboozled him during an Ashes Test Match.
The London Pride was on reasonable form - there's other beers to sample too.
This pub is well worth seeking out
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Very nice pub in a lovely part of the village, but since the smoking ban it's a bit whiffy. Maybe shampoo the carpets?
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as a local "fogie" I must have missed the no-smoking law being extended to outside areas as in "illicit smokers"in the last review. Have always enjoyed my visits to this establishment especially the witty banter from the jovial & rotund barpersons.Only downside are the pretentious on-off visitors who would really rather be in a wine bar "up West" and are looking for any excuse to have a moan. Give the place another try!
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traditional old backstreet boozer occupied by fogies young and old. not a connoisseur myself but was assured by those with me that they served 'a decent pint'. only complaint was the group of illicit smokers hanging round the back leering through the windows of the ladies loo! decided to hold it in til the next stop!
ritaz - 20 Jan 2008 01:15 |
A very nice pub great range of drinks and very friendly atmosphere. When I was there with the lady Doweger their was a office party going on which enlivened the place and their was a sing song happening which was good fun.Definetly worth a return visit.
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What a great little pub. I went in Last Thursday, the beer was fantastic, with a very impressive variety in strengths and tastes. It was busy with the cast from the theatre and a small group of singers in the corner, creating a great atmosphere. I will be back
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Not so good this week with just Pride & ESB on when I visited. Needs more than that to encourage punters, especially those who have to travel to get here, to return.
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Popped in on Sunday. Was nicely busy, but the service was still good. The beer festival was in full flow and I had a couple of decent Ales, and the wife a couple of 'cloudy' ciders. Interesting collection of sporting memorabilia on the walls and the landlord was nice and chatty about them. Last time I visited I was disappointed with this place, but it proves you should always give places a 2nd chance.
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Friendly welcome last Sunday and a good beer selection with 3 Fullers and 2 guests (Smiles Blond & something nice from York brewery which I can't remember). The guv took time to tell us about his forthcoming beerfest w/e 01Sep with 30 or so beers from around the country, some of which he will be collecting from smaller suppliers himself - a good sign of commitment to the cause. Revisited Tuesday and the beer was still on good form. The pub has a nice aspect to the street with wide-opening doors to take advantage of good weather, and a fair few tables out front. This, and the White Bear up the road will be making Hampstead a regular stop for me.
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As Hampstead pubs go, this is a gem. Always full of character and characters. I liked it when the previous management were there, but love it now. Busier than it used to be, the ales remain in excellent condition, with an ever changing guest. The Duke' is not a bar and not a restaurant, but a super Hampstead pub that other local hostelries could learn from.
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Great pub. The regular guest ale makes it better for drinking than the Holly Bush, but that has its own quality. I like the local feel in here, and the benches outside are nice. Nice to see ESB on tap :)
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Richard here. I am now running things here. Lets see how things go and have a good drink
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Great little pub. Not been here for a while, and the previous owners seem to have gone, fortunatly the beer is still excelent. It is great that there is still a pub in Hampstead; traditional, with good beer, good conversation and sports on the TV.
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Fairly inoffensive pub with a comfortable 'local' feel to it. On my visit they had two fairly well kept Fullers ales (London Pride and ESB) plus at least one guest and a cider. Worth stopping off here if you're on a crawl of the area, but not worth going out of your way for.
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This is a good pub. I came in on a pub crawl a few weeks ago and I stand by my previous review.
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This pub is a pub and not a restaurant/hotel bar/bistro/Starbucks, so if you like the candle on the table, cup of tea/coffee and a gastro menu I would give it a wide berth. If however you enjoy very un-PC conversations, rugby/cricket on the box, a few jars of Pride/ESB/Stella/Carling/Strongbow/Old Rosie and a cheese roll you�ll enjoy the Duke. There is always at least one guest ale on and a large spirit for 3 quid in Hampstead can�t be sniffed at!
I wasn�t there to witness the untimely closing of the Duke on New Years day, but I did hear about it, so I can understand why Tala is so peeved. Nobody wants a good day ruined buy unnecessary rudeness. Though on the whole the staff are friendly and know how to pull a pint and the Landlord is a good laugh if you catch him in a good mood and his staff have turned up for work and his wife is nowhere to be seen.
However, It can get very smoky when it is busy or someone sparks up a double Corona and David Attenborough would have the time of his life in the toilet discovering new species.
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Traditional, backstreet Hampstead boozer. Mature, friendly atmosphere. Fullers plus guest beers. Attracts mature and discerning clientele. Worth visiting.
8/10
phil
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Unless this pub has had a change of management or something since I was there on 24 Dec I cannot begin to see how the recent negative comments reflect this pub which remained an unspoilt, un-gentrified non-chain pub when I was there. The landlord was a genial old bloke. The atmosphere was cracking on xmas eve and the ale well kept. Got to agree with Ladnewton really.
Funny how Tala, Carlosk and Kayastar have only ever reviewed the DoH. Having never once felt the urge to review any of Britain's glorious pubs, within days they all write damning reviews of what is frankly a sound pub. And the latter two both mention how amazing the White Bear is (yet haven't bothered to even review it - if it's so great which I don't doubt then tell us about it). I wonder if there could be a connection here?? As for "annonymous" (who also mentions a "good pub" a minute down the road) who can tell?
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I had this misfortune of frequenting this pub over the Christmas period and I'm afraid that as previously posted, it's not worth the effort.
I don't think I can convey in writing how extremely rude the service was. The landlady was sloshed and seemed to only be interested in talking to her equally slaughtered friend at the end of the bar. I will never forget the look of disdain that I was met with when I dared to ask for a pint of pride and I will not be in a position to receive it again.
As for the beer, I haven't got a clue what it's like as I was not given the chance to try it.
If you love to spend your hard earned money in a toilet being treated like a turd then this is the place to go.
I rate this pub 1/10 due to the fact that there is a good pub 1 minute down the road.
anonymous - 16 Jan 2007 08:39 |
Popped in for a quiet drink on New Years day after a lovely walk, in good spirits. Left with a very bad taste in my mouth having finished my drink in semi darkness. The landlord abruptly turned the lights off in our section when he could not be bothered to serve any longer - without any warning - about 5.28pm.
Prior to this, we had been served begrudgingly and with little charm.
Happy New Year to you Mr. Landlord - I believe your name is Woody - I hope that 2007 brings you and your miserable pub all that you deserve.
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Oh shame of shames. This used to be the most wonderful pub in all of London town, but recent reviewers are to be believed. It no longer warrants more than a spit on the way down to the Olde White Bear. Outside still a sunny spot but don't venture in. Poorly kept ales, manners and staff do the admirably devoted clientele a criminal disservice. Don't be insulted, don't go. Shame.
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The reviews of 20th December and 2nd January do not represent the true charm of this pub. Agreed it attracts a mature adult clientele but I have had neither bad nor rude service in the DoH. Visit again.
7/10
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This is the worst pub I have ever had the misfortune to visit - the service was appalling and the landlord/barman is the rudest man I have ever met. I would avoid this place and head down the road to the Olde White Bear for friendly service with a smile.
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What a regrettably ill-informed comment. The Duke of Hamilton is a fantastic place, a cosy old school pub where you can enjoy a good pint of ESB and have a chat. A rare thing in London and especially this area of pretentious wine bars, chains and gastro pubs etc.
Last visit I made the Landlord was serving behind the bar, a genial and cheerful bloke happy to have you in his pub. Long may it continue unchanged.
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The duke of hamilton is a terrible pub, its unwelcoming to people under the age of 30 and i always felt out of place there. The bar staff are bitter, old and boring, i wouldnt advise anyone to go there.
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Enjoyable Fullers outlet, with a decent range (Butser, ESB, Pride, Discovery, Old Rosie as a draught Cider with Aspells in the fridge this Saturday) with a basic range of �1 rolls behind the bar. Well worth a stop-off and very close to the tube. Bogs could do with a scrub though.
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Most of the decent pubs in Hampstead having closed or gone downhill in the last few years. With an eclectic mix of locals and superb beer this is the best of the remainder by a mile.
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A nice pub, and worth coming to for a few before settling in the White Bear down the road for the evening.
I found the regulars very friendly, and although the service was slow (only one person working on a Bank Holiday Sunday!) the quality of the beer and the chilled atmosphere made up for it.
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A nice pub with good beer, but not the most welcoming in the world, combined with some of the slowest bar work ever.
anonymous - 26 Jul 2006 17:52 |
Lovely little local place hidden down a side street. Usual range of Fullers beers, friendly bar staff - a very pleasant place to come for a quiet pint.
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Beers not as good as it used to be... Not been great on the last 2 or 3 occasions I've been in.
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300 year old pub complete with 300 year old winos sneering through their glasses as you walk in.
Outside loos were in unsavoury shed-type extension past local offspring playing amid rubbish bins.
Depressing.
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This is a real gem, was in there xmas eve and can't think of a better pub to spend it. Perched at the bar, a bit of banter with the genial landlord and plenty of well kept ale. Not one to go to in a group though, enjoy it quietly with a few friends to really appreciate it.
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Been there once.
I found the bar staff charming and friendly, and the surroundings comforable.
Yes, i'd go again...
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An oasis in the barren desert of blandness that is Hampstead.Decent down to earth locals who make you feel at home if you dont go in there and look down your nose at them.
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One to avoid on a Hampstead pub crawl. Full of bitter, depressed old alcoholic men talking about horse-racing when I was there (briefly). If you're there, you're within sight of Ye Olde White Bear, possibly the best local in London. Go there instead, quickly.
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Excellent Fullers beers, best London Pride for miles around. Nice rolls at lunch time.
Good mixture of locals from the trendy to the professional tothe unemployable. A serious pub for serious boozers. Some great sporting pictures on the walls, landlord (Woody) is very keen on his rugby and cricket. Theatre next door adds to the people mixture. Nice outside terrace with well maintained plants, good spot to while away time with a pint!
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A very traditional pub, very much a neighborhood thing. You have to stumble on it to find it. Pleasantly chatty neighborhood crowd and governor.
Big Plus: Fullers ESB.
anonymous - 4 Feb 2005 23:04 |
I like this place but I have to say some of the pissed up locals tend to piss me off somewhat. They're quiet but still faintly obnoxious.
anonymous - 29 Aug 2004 00:47 |
Visited this pub early on a summery June Saturday evening and found a friendly crowd waiting on the lane-side terrace. Brilliant selection of beers and ales and a fantastic looking pub. A breath of fresh air from the usual wood panelling and burgendy walled establishments that occcupy most of Hampstead.
Catherine - 28 Aug 2004 11:04 |
As a visiting American living in London for 4 months and living in Hampstead I took about three weeks trying all of the local pubs. I find the Duke of Hamilton to definately be my favorite, Woody and Mary are great and some of the regulars are wonderful conversationalists, and then there are the occasional celebrities who know they won't be mobbed but can have a nice quiet dringk in a great pub. I go bavk to London every year and always make the Duke of Hamilton my local.
Davy - 12 Feb 2004 22:02 |
greatest pint of fullers esb in london, woody the gov-nor is an english gentelman, lets hope it gets the best pub of north london from camra for a record 4th time, even the paint work was outstanding, gilbert rex
gilbert rex - 31 Jan 2004 21:31 |
As an American pub owner and visitor to The Duke of Hamilton for the past five years, I give the pub and its landlord, Woody, two thumbs up! The regulars are friendly, the beer is kept perfectly, and it's always on my "must visit" list when I'm in London.
Judith Black - 13 Jan 2004 18:24 |
An immaculately maintained Fuller's pub. The beer quality was top rate and the landlord served the best pint of 1845 I've ever had. Well done.
Jeff - 13 Nov 2003 12:22 |
This pub is located in a quiet spot of Hampstead a little out of distance from the hub of bars in the area. It is slightly raised from the road below. The front patio is quite pleasant to drink from but the view isn't memorable but not ugly either. I had a Fullers Summer Ale which was acceptable. The service was good and the clientele have the potential of being quite interesting.
Sefton - 6 Aug 2003 16:03 |
Noting that the Duke of Hamilton had recently been awarded the CAMRA North London pub of the year award I set out to pay it a visit. Initially I was disappointed as it had a bit of a tourist trap feel to it, but it grew on me the longer I was there. The ESB was spot on and large single malts were selling for �3.30.
There is a reasonable range of beers, especially bottled, with friendly and (mostly) knowledgeable staff. It is well located on a quiet side street off Heath St. and the raised seating area outside makes the pub very welcoming. A good choice CAMRA.
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proper pub unlike the new cunningly diguised wine bars.
Great range of beers well maintained - no muzac.
Please stay away on Friday evenings as our group need seating for the evening and easy access to the bar.
Jeza - 30 Apr 2003 16:21 |
