The Freemasons Arms, Hampstead

Visited the Freemasons on Saturday 6 June 2009. Had high hopes as it had seemed to have been relaunched since my last visit; but these were soon dashed and I won't be going back. I really can't recommend this pub in any way (apart from the location) unless you enjoy long bar waits, surly staff and officious management who kept one end of the place crammed with customers while blocking access to the other end which was empty (the excuse was that this was due to be set for dinner - which at that point was several hours away).

If it's a big boozer with a garden you're after, head to the Garden Gate round the corner; if you want a gastropub with character, the Roebuck (up the hill from the Royal Free) is great, and if you just want a nice honest boozer with pleasant staff, head for the White Bear, the Holly Bush or the Flask in Hampstead proper.

8 Jun 2009 11:02