Fancy breweries and swanky gastropubs are great, and all that. But something you should know about me is that I will always opt for a no-nonsense pub that’s got some ancient anecdotes hidden up its sleeve. I just love a historic boozer, you see? So I guess it’s pretty darn handy that I’ve found myself living in a city that is (quite literally) filled to the brim with them.
One watering hole that’s got some particularly interesting tales to tell is The Spaniards Inn; a Hampstead hotspot that puts forward a fairly convincing case for being the most historic and haunted pub in the capital. The Grade II listed building is perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath, and dates all the way back to the 16th century. And – like many other of the capital’s ancient alehouses – it’s been frequented by its fair share of famous faces over the years.
The history of The Spaniards Inn
Having set up shop on a hilltop in Hampstead in 1585 (or around about), The Spaniards Inn started its life as a tollgate, perched on the boundary of Finchley. There are two accounts as to how the pub earnt its name. The first being that it was originally owned by two Spanish men who ended up killing each other in a duel. And the second being that it was named after the Spanish Ambassador at the time.
Regardless of how it got its title, The Spaniards Inn became a popular spot, especially among highwaymen. It was supposedly owned by Dick Turpin’s father at one point, and the notorious highwayman is said to have used the pub as a base to plan his many robberies. The ghost of Dick Turpin has apparently still wanders the hallowed halls of The Spaniards Inn – so be sure to keep an eye on your belongings whilst you’re there.
The Spaniards Inn is also renowned for its fairly impressive literary links. Keats supposedly wrote some of his poetry in the garden, Bram Stoker is said to have borrowed some of the pub’s many ghost stories to write the plot of ‘Dracula’, and – let’s face it – would it even be a historic London pub if it hadn’t been frequented by Charles Dickens?
The Spaniards Inn nowadays
The Spaniards Inn has been lovingly-preserved and feels gorgeously cosy and romantic inside. It’s off the beaten track, so isn’t necessarily a spot you’d stumble upon – but it’s well-worth seeking out. It’s a pub for all seasons, with roaring fires inside and a sun-soaked beer garden out the back. One of the biggest in the city, in fact. It boasts plenty of period features and has firmly kept hold of its timeless charm. It offers classic pub grub (at typical Hampstead prices) and a decent selection of craft beers on rotation. Definitely one to add to your must-visit list.
📍You’ll find the Spaniards Inn on Spaniards Road, NW3 7JJ. Find out more and plan your visit here.
