The Bull and Last - Highgate - Pub Reviews

The Bull & Last is not just any pub – it’s a slice of living London history. First mentioned in 1721, this establishment originally served as a coaching inn where horse-drawn coaches made their final stop before leaving London. In fact, its very name is said to come from the coachmen’s call of “The Bull – and last stop!” as they halted here on the journey north. Over the centuries the pub has witnessed London’s changing landscape, even surviving a fire and being rebuilt in 1883. Today, The Bull & Last masterfully blends that rich heritage with modern hospitality, offering visitors a refined yet unpretentious experience.

Stepping inside, you immediately sense the character. The interior pays homage to its past with rustic wood-panelled walls, a vintage fireplace, and pub memorabilia, all while feeling fresh and comfortable after a recent extensive refurbishment. That renovation (completed in 2020 after almost two years of work) not only polished the pub’s Victorian features but also added six boutique guest rooms upstairs, reinstating its historic role as an inn. Despite the upgrades, the pub hasn’t lost its soul – it remains a neighbourhood favourite and a destination for foodies, seamlessly combining a genuine local pub vibe with stunning dishes. In other words, the Bull & Last Highgate encapsulates the best of both worlds: the warm, dog-friendly charm of a local tavern and the top-tier food and drink of a modern gastropub.

Critically acclaimed and loved by patrons, The Bull & Last has earned its reputation as one of the best pub food spots in North London. It regularly features in “top gastropub” lists and even published its own cookbook celebrating 70 of its recipes and tales from Hampstead Heath’s community. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie seeking the best pub food in North London, or simply a walker coming off Hampstead Heath in need of a pint, this gastropub near Hampstead Heath promises a memorable visit. In this review, we’ll explore everything that makes The Bull & Last special – from its facilities and fare to its atmosphere and overall value.

Facilities & Entertainment

While the focus here is firmly on food and ambience, The Bull & Last does offer a range of amenities for comfort and convenience:

• Parking: Yes – free street parking is available in the surrounding area (after midday on weekdays and unrestricted on weekends). This is a welcome perk for a London pub, especially for Sunday roast visitors arriving by car.

• Darts & Pool Table: No – this is not a sports or games pub. The Bull & Last leans more toward dining and conversation, so you won’t find dartboards or pool tables here.

• Live Sports: No – unlike a typical boozer, there are no TVs blaring football matches. The entertainment here comes from good company, great food, and the nearby nature, rather than big screens.

• Outdoor Seating: Limited – a few bench tables outside the pub offer a spot in the sunshine on warm days. It’s a lovely place to perch with a pint after a walk on Hampstead Heath, though space is at a premium.

• Dog-Friendly: Yes – extremely. Dogs are welcome in the downstairs bar area, and the staff even keep treats like marrow bones and pig’s ears behind the bar for any four-legged visitors who’ve earned a reward. It’s common to see muddy paws and wagging tails by the doorway, given the pub’s proximity to the dog-walking haven of the Heath.

• Accommodation: Yes – six beautifully designed guest rooms upstairs now function as a boutique inn. Each room is themed subtly after local historical figures (like Dido Belle of Kenwood House or poet John Keats), blending modern comfort with nods to Highgate’s heritage. Staying the night means you can retire upstairs after dinner and drinks – a rare feature for a pub.

• Function Space: Yes – the first-floor dining room (with about 50-55 seats) can be privately hired for events. The entire pub (capacity ~110) is even available for exclusive hire for weddings, birthdays and special occasions, showcasing its versatility as a celebration venue.

In summary, The Bull & Last provides a comfortable, upscale pub environment rather than arcade machines or pub games. Its “entertainment” is the relaxed conversation over great food, though as we’ll see, they do host a popular quiz night for those seeking a bit of competitive fun.

Food on Offer

The Bull & Last truly shines in the culinary department, delivering refined seasonal British cuisine that elevates traditional pub fare into something special. The kitchen’s ethos is to use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and let the seasons dictate the menu. As a result, the menu changes frequently and diners are treated to creative dishes that showcase British cooking at its best, often with a modern or continental twist. This commitment to quality and seasonality has cemented the Bull & Last’s reputation for serving some of the best pub food in North London.

Signature dishes and starters have become the stuff of local legend. Chief among these is their renowned Scotch egg, a pub classic that The Bull & Last has perfected. Imagine a golden, crisp breadcrumb exterior encasing high-quality sausage meat and a perfectly runny egg yolk at the centre – it’s a thing of beauty and a must-try for first-time visitors. Another favourite is the house fish board, a beautifully curated selection of seafood that might include smoky mackerel pâté, cured salmon, pickled herring, and other delicacies depending on the day. It’s ideal for sharing, offering a little taste of the sea to accompany your pint. For those seeking a more sophisticated seafood dish, look no further than the ballotine of cod with trout-roe mousse – a dish that exemplifies the kitchen’s refined touch. This preparation sees fresh cod fillet rolled and poached (as a ballotine), served with a delicate mousse infused with trout roe, marrying the mild flakiness of cod with a burst of briny flavour. It’s an elegant plate you might expect in a fine dining restaurant, yet here you are enjoying it in a relaxed pub setting – that contrast is exactly what makes the Bull & Last a gastropub in the truest sense.

Of course, they haven’t forgotten the classics. Traditional pub favourites like beer-battered haddock with triple-cooked chips, hearty meat pies, and succulent burgers make appearances on the menu, all executed with the same care and top-notch ingredients. The Sunday menu proudly features roast dinners that draw midday crowds – think roast Shorthorn beef with Yorkshire pudding, seasonal veggies and proper gravy, or perhaps a spring lamb shoulder when in season. Portions are generous and the roasts have received high praise, making this a popular gastropub near Hampstead Heath for a post-walk Sunday lunch. (Insider tip: book ahead for Sunday, as tables fill up fast with families and walking groups eager to tuck into a roast and bowls of crisp chips on the side.)

The Bull & Last also offers morning and midday fare, which many pubs don’t. Weekend breakfasts are a treat here – from the epic “Full Bull” breakfast (their tongue-in-cheek take on a full English, likely piled with eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, and more) to lighter choices like smashed avocado on buttermilk toast for the more health-conscious brunch crowd. Pastries, good coffee, and even smoothies round out the morning menu, catering to early birds and Heath joggers dropping in from an 8 AM Sunday opening. Later in the day, if you pop in between meal times, a simplified afternoon menu might be available with snacks and charcuterie – perfect to tide you over. And don’t skip desserts if they’re on offer: from sticky toffee pudding to fruit crumbles in winter or Eton mess in summer, the puddings here uphold the British tradition of sweet comfort.

Overall, the ever-evolving seasonal menu ensures there’s always something new to try, yet certain beloved items (like that Scotch egg) are so popular they’re rarely allowed off the menu. It’s this balance of innovation and familiarity that keeps locals coming back and makes every meal at The Bull & Last memorable. Whether you’re sharing small plates with friends or settling in for a three-course dinner, the culinary experience here sets a high bar for pub dining.

Beers on Tap

No great pub experience is complete without great drinks, and The Bull & Last delivers with a carefully curated selection of beers that will please both ale aficionados and casual beer drinkers alike. There’s no fixed beer list posted on the wall because the line-up rotates frequently, but that’s part of the fun – each visit might present a new pint to discover. The focus is on British brews, particularly those from London’s thriving craft beer scene, giving the beer menu a local flair. On any given day, expect a mix of traditional hand-pulled cask ales and contemporary craft kegs, covering a range of styles from crisp lagers to hoppy pale ales to rich stouts.

One standout offering – and a point of pride for the pub – is their house ale, “So Solid Brew.” Brewed in collaboration with The Five Points Brewing Co. in Hackney, So Solid Brew is a 4.8% ABV pale ale made with Citra and Cascade hops. It’s available exclusively on tap at The Bull & Last and has been a hit since it first launched in 2014. This golden ale is refreshing, aromatic, and incredibly drinkable – definitely worth the journey to Highgate for a pint, as Five Points themselves note. The pub was one of Five Points’ earliest supporters, and in return they’ve got a signature brew that regulars have come to love. If you enjoy a balanced pale ale with zesty hop notes, give So Solid Brew a try; you won’t find it anywhere else.

Aside from the house beer, the rotating taps often feature other London craft breweries. You might find a malty Five Points Best Bitter pulling through the hand pump one month, then perhaps a guest cask from Fuller's or Timothy Taylor the next. On the keg taps, recent line-ups have included brews like Hammerton Brewery’s Oyster Stout (a smooth, dark stout with a hint of brininess) and the delightfully crisp Silly Moo cider from Sussex. Lagers and pilsners are not forgotten either – a quality German-style lager or a trendy craft Pils might be available for those who prefer lighter beers. The bartenders are knowledgeable and happy to offer tastes or recommendations; if the choices feel overwhelming, just ask what pairs well with your food or what’s new on tap this week.

For non-beer drinkers, The Bull & Last has plenty more to offer. There’s a concise but thoughtful wine list focusing on European producers (with many natural and organic options) – ideal if you’re treating the meal like a restaurant experience. A rotating selection of ciders, artisanal gins, and classic cocktails is also on hand, ensuring everyone can find something to their taste. But beer lovers in particular will appreciate the pub’s commitment to quality pours. The combination of a rotating beer selection and a few house favourites means there’s always a reason to raise a glass here. From a foamy pint of real ale by the fireplace to a cold keg pint enjoyed at an outdoor table in summer, the Bull & Last has you covered.

Price Range & Value

In terms of pricing, The Bull & Last sits in the upper-mid range (£££) for pub dining – not surprising given the quality of ingredients, the location, and its accolades. Mains here generally start around the high-teens and can go upwards of £20+ for larger or more premium dishes. For example, a classic fish and chips might be ~£18, whereas a more elaborate entrée like the ballotine of cod or a generous Sunday roast platter could be in the low £20s. Starters and smaller plates (such as the Scotch egg or a pâté with toast) tend to be in the £7-£12 range, which is reasonable for the craftsmanship on display. Desserts hover around £7-£8. As for drinks, pints are priced in line with London craft pub norms – roughly £5 to £6.50 for most beers, with the house So Solid Brew typically about £5.50 a pint (and worth every penny). Wines by the glass span from modest £6-7 options up to finer selections at higher prices, and there’s usually a good value house red and white available.

While these prices mean The Bull & Last isn’t the cheapest pub around, the value is generally considered excellent for what you get. Portions are satisfying, and more importantly the calibre of cooking genuinely competes with upscale bistros or even Michelin-recognised gastropubs (indeed, the Bull & Last was ranked among the Top 10 gastropubs in the UK in 2025). You’re paying for top-quality produce and skilled preparation – for many visitors, that justified cost is part of what makes this a destination dining pub. Regulars will tell you that a meal here is worth the splurge, and even just popping in for a gourmet bar snack and a pint feels like a little luxury.

There are ways to enjoy the pub on a smaller budget too. Consider visiting at lunchtime on a weekday, when they might have set lunch deals or slightly lower prices on certain dishes, or come for breakfast where you can get a hearty morning meal at a friendlier price point. Also, the atmosphere and location are free – many would argue that the experience of sitting in this historic pub by the Heath is itself worth the cost of a pint. In summary, Bull & Last offers great value in the sense that you walk away feeling you’ve had a high-quality experience commensurate with the bill. It’s not an everyday cheap eat, but for those special weekend lunches, date nights, or celebratory gatherings, it delivers quality and consistency that make it a worthwhile indulgence.

Customer Service

The service at The Bull & Last aligns with its overall high standards – professional, knowledgeable, and welcoming. Staff here seem to genuinely care about both the food and the customers. Many reviews from patrons highlight the warm welcome on arrival and the attentive, yet nonintrusive, service throughout the meal. The front-of-house team is well-versed in the menu and can eloquently describe dishes or advise on popular choices. Don’t hesitate to ask them for a recommendation – for instance, the servers are happy to suggest a beer that pairs with your chosen dish or to explain the provenance of the day’s special cut of meat. This kind of knowledgeable guidance adds to the dining experience, especially if you’re a first-timer keen to try their signature items.

Despite the Bull & Last’s popularity and often packed tables, the staff generally maintain a friendly, easy-going attitude that puts guests at ease. The vibe is not stiff or formal; you’ll get the same cheerful service whether you’re in hiking gear with a dog at your feet or dressed up for a Saturday night dinner. Little touches stand out – water for the table (and for the dog bowl) is provided promptly, pints are topped up without asking if the head is a tad short, and staff circulate often enough to notice if you need an extra fork or another drink.

Of course, as with any busy establishment, there can be occasional hiccups. During peak times – say a sunny Sunday afternoon when every table is occupied – service can slow down a touch. A food order might take a bit longer or you might wait a few extra minutes for the bill. These instances are the exception rather than the norm, and most guests are in a relaxed mood anyway, not in a rush. The team appears to handle pressure well, and even when it’s hectic they strive to keep their cool and continue smiling. Importantly, the core of regular staff has been there for years, which speaks to good management and lends a familiar, community feel – you might even get recognised and greeted like an old friend if you come often.

In summary, expect a level of customer service that befits a top gastropub: generally attentive and courteous, with an underpinning of genuine hospitality. Whether you’re a local popping in for a pint or a visitor who’s made a special trip, the staff of The Bull & Last do their best to make you feel right at home in this historic pub.

Events & Special Nights

Unlike some pubs that have a full calendar of themed nights, The Bull & Last keeps things fairly simple on the events front – its focus is on great food and a relaxed social atmosphere. That said, there is one regular event that has become a firm favourite in the community: the Sunday night pub quiz. Every Sunday at 7:30 PM, locals and trivia enthusiasts gather for a friendly yet competitive quiz session. If you’re looking for a classic North London pub with a quiz night, this is it. The quiz at The Bull & Last strikes a nice balance between challenging and fun; you can expect a mix of general knowledge, perhaps a bit of local trivia, and the occasional curveball question to keep teams on their toes. It’s hosted in the bar area, creating a lively buzz throughout the pub. Prizes might be modest (often bar tabs or a bottle of wine for the winners), but the real reward is the camaraderie and banter that fill the room. Many quiz-goers make an evening of it – arriving early for dinner or a few pints, then staying on to quiz into the night. If you plan to participate, it’s wise to arrive early to snag a table, as quiz night draws a crowd and the unreserved spots near the bar fill quickly.

Aside from the quiz, The Bull & Last doesn’t have fixed weekly events like karaoke or live music – which fits its identity as a gastropub rather than a late-night bar. Music in the pub tends to be background-only, and there’s no stage or PA for bands. This means conversation is always front and centre; you won’t be shouting over amplified music here. The pub will occasionally host seasonal specials, such as a special menu for Burns Night, a Christmas carol evening by the fire, or set menus for events like Valentine’s Day or New Year’s Eve. These are usually dining-focused events that showcase the kitchen’s creativity (for example, a game-focused menu in autumn, or a seafood feast in summer), and they’re often advertised on the pub’s website or chalkboard in advance.

It’s also worth noting that the pub’s upstairs dining room and entire venue are available for private hire events as mentioned earlier. So while not public events, there may be times when a section is closed for a private party. The management has plenty of experience catering weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations, which means if you ever attend a private function here, the food and service will likely be as top-notch as the public offering.

In essence, The Bull & Last’s event programming is modest but fitting: the Sunday quiz injects a bit of weekly fun and community spirit, and otherwise the “special events” revolve mostly around the seasons and gastronomy. The approach is low-key and in tune with the pub’s character – it’s a place to unwind and enjoy, rather than a theme pub chasing the next gimmick. If you’re after a raucous party night, you might look elsewhere, but if a cosy quiz night in a Highgate pub is your idea of fun, The Bull & Last has you covered.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Bull & Last: a cosy, wood-panelled bar and dining area that exudes traditional charm and relaxed elegance. The atmosphere at The Bull & Last strikes a delightful balance between lively pub buzz and comfortable dining sophistication. Thanks to its wood-panelled walls, classic Victorian pub décor, and soft ambient lighting, the space feels warm and inviting from the moment you step through the door. Historic touches – like the mounted bull’s head above the bar and vintage local photographs – nod to the pub’s long heritage, while fresh flowers on tables and a clear chalkboard of daily menu offerings give it that modern gastropub polish. There’s a working fireplace for cold months, adding literal and figurative warmth as patrons gather around with real ales in hand. Despite the high culinary aspirations of the kitchen, nothing about the interior is pretentious; it remains at heart a proper pub, with a long wooden bar, stout bar stools, and a friendly jumble of wooden tables where cutlery and pint glasses clink amid cheerful conversation.

One notable aspect of the atmosphere is how it adapts throughout the week and day. Daytimes (especially weekdays) tend to be calmer – you might find dog walkers and retirees enjoying a quiet lunch after a Heath stroll, or remote workers nursing a coffee or pint in a corner (the pub has Wi-Fi, and it’s not uncommon to see a laptop or two mid-afternoon). The large windows let in plenty of natural light, making it a pleasant spot to watch the world go by. Evenings and weekends, by contrast, bring a lively buzz. After 6 PM the bar area fills up with a mix of local professionals, couples on dates, and groups of friends meeting for dinner; the hum of conversation grows, and every now and then you’ll hear a burst of laughter rise above the general murmur – the hallmark of a pub where people are genuinely enjoying themselves. Yet, even when bustling, The Bull & Last’s atmosphere remains convivial rather than rowdy. Because there are no loud TVs or blaring music, you can still chat comfortably at your table. Upstairs in the dining room, the vibe is slightly more formal (no pets up there, cloth napkins on tables), which makes it ideal for a sit-down meal or Sunday family lunch. Downstairs, you’ll see locals perched at the bar for a solo pint, couples sharing a Scotch egg at a small table, and maybe a well-behaved dog dozing at its owner’s feet – a true community pub feel.

In terms of accessibility, the pub fares well for an older building. The main entrance is at street level with just a small lip, so getting in is feasible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility (though assistance may be needed for that single step). Once inside, the ground floor is all one level, making the bar and several tables accessible. The 2018–2020 refurbishment included new facilities, so the toilets (now located in the basement) are accessed via a modern staircase – unfortunately not accessible by wheelchair, as there’s no lift, which is one limitation. For those who can handle a few stairs, the facilities are updated and clean. The upstairs dining area is only reachable by stairs, but staff will accommodate seating on the ground floor if needed for anyone who can’t do stairs (just mention when booking).

Travel-wise, it’s easy to reach the pub. Public transport options include the London Overground at Gospel Oak station (about a 5-7 minute walk) or the Northern Line at Tufnell Park/Kentish Town (about 15 minutes walk or a quick bus ride). Several bus routes (214, C11, C2) stop nearby on Highgate Road, practically outside the door, so getting here from central Camden or Kentish Town is straightforward. For those driving, as mentioned earlier, street parking is available and free at certain times, which is a rarity in London.

The pub is also family-friendly: high chairs are available for young children, and the staff seem very welcoming to kids in the daytime. You’ll often see a pram tucked in a corner or toddlers enjoying a handful of chips – the relaxed vibe makes parents feel at ease. As evening progresses, the crowd skews adult, but it’s by no means an inappropriate environment for well-behaved youngsters at dinner. And we’ve already noted the pub’s exemplary dog-friendly status – water bowls, treats, and plenty of pats are on offer for canine visitors.

In summary, The Bull & Last’s atmosphere is one of comfort, camaraderie, and casual elegance. It’s the kind of place where you can dress up for an occasion or wander in wearing muddy boots after a Heath hike, and you’ll be treated just the same. The thoughtful blend of historic charm and contemporary touches, combined with a genuine welcome to all, makes the atmosphere here hard to beat. Whether you’re sipping a pint at the bar or dining upstairs, you’ll feel the unique character that has made this pub a north London treasure for generations.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Bull & Last enjoys a prime location in North London, straddling the boundary of Highgate and Kentish Town, and directly across from the expansive greenery of Hampstead Heath. For anyone looking to combine a bit of sightseeing or outdoor activity with a pub visit, this spot is hard to beat. In fact, many people plan a visit to “The Bull & Last Highgate” as a reward after a long walk on the Heath – and it makes for a perfect ending. Here are a few nearby highlights that make the location so special:

• Hampstead Heath: Literally on the pub’s doorstep (the Heath’s eastern extension, Parliament Hill Fields, lies just across the road), this ancient London park is a vast oasis of woodland, meadows, and swimming ponds. You can stroll through verdant trails, fly a kite on the open field, or take a dip in the Parliament Hill Lido in summer. The Heath is a haven for dog walkers, families, and anyone craving fresh air; it’s easy to see why patrons often drop into the pub with mud on their boots or a happy dog in tow. A popular mini-itinerary is to walk the perimeter of the Heath, then stop at The Bull & Last for lunch, soaking in the rustic charm after communing with nature. In autumn, the Heath’s trees put on a golden show; in spring, wildflowers and blooming trees add colour – each season offers a different backdrop, and the pub’s menu will be changing seasonally right along with it.

• Parliament Hill & Viewpoint: Within Hampstead Heath (and just a 5-10 minute walk from the pub) is Parliament Hill, famous for its panoramic view over London’s skyline. From this high point, you can see landmarks like the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye on a clear day – it’s one of the most breathtaking city vistas, much beloved by Londoners. Visitors often head up at sunset for a romantic view, or early morning to watch the city wake up. The Bull & Last is so close you could easily catch the sunset on Parliament Hill and then be back in the pub for a pint by the time the sky turns fully dark. In summer, you might hear faint cheers or music from the Parliament Hill bandstand area when events are on – again, emphasising how nicely located the pub is for anyone exploring the Heath. And for fitness enthusiasts, Parliament Hill is also home to an athletics track and the Parliament Hill Lido (outdoor swimming pool), if you fancy a swim followed by a hearty pub meal.

• Kenwood House: A bit further north on Hampstead Heath (approximately a 30-minute scenic walk or a short drive/bus ride) is the magnificent Kenwood House. This 17th-century stately home, set in landscaped gardens, is a free-admission museum boasting an impressive art collection (including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer) and beautifully restored interiors. Kenwood House was also famously featured in films like Notting Hill and Belle. Visiting Kenwood is like stepping into a Jane Austen novel – and after touring the grand library and pastel-hued rooms, you can enjoy tea and cake at its café. From The Bull & Last, Kenwood is a straightforward journey: you can walk straight through the Heath’s trails heading north until the elegant white house comes into view. It’s a lovely half-day activity to pair with the pub. Perhaps start with brunch at Bull & Last, walk it off up to Kenwood House, then amble back in time for an afternoon pint. The pub’s hotel rooms are even themed with subtle tributes to local figures like Dido Belle, who lived at Kenwood House – underscoring the connection between this pub and the cultural history around it.

Aside from these major attractions, the pub’s Highgate Road location means it’s a short bus ride from Camden Town (for the markets and music venues) and not far from Highgate Village itself (with its charming Georgian lanes and the famous Highgate Cemetery). But truthfully, the immediate area around The Bull & Last has enough to fill a day on its own: ramble on the Heath, admire the city from Parliament Hill, and soak up some art and history at Kenwood, all capped by a gourmet meal or drink at this storied pub. It’s an itinerary that combines natural beauty, culture, and culinary pleasure – a wonderful showcase of what North London has to offer.

For practical matters: if you’re visiting from out of town, The Bull & Last is roughly 4 miles north of central London. Public transport as mentioned is convenient (Gospel Oak Overground or the 214 bus from Camden tube). If you’re playing tourist, you could easily visit Camden Market in the morning, then hop on the 214 up to Parliament Hill Fields for the Heath and pub in the afternoon. The surrounding neighbourhood (sometimes referred to as Dartmouth Park or Highgate Road area) is leafy and residential, giving you a pleasant reprieve from the more chaotic city spots. In short, the location offers the best of city and country at once, making a trip to The Bull & Last as much about the journey as the destination.

Overall Impression

The Bull & Last in Highgate is the epitome of what a great gastropub should be – a place that marries history, community, and top-quality food & drink into an experience that leaves a lasting impression. After thoroughly exploring its facets, our overall take is overwhelmingly positive. This pub manages to be many things at once: a cosy local hangout for those in the know, a culinary destination for food lovers across London, and even a charming inn for visitors seeking a unique stay. It’s rare to find a spot that can pull off being a relaxed pub and a serious restaurant simultaneously, but The Bull & Last does so with aplomb. The phrase “best pub food in North London” is often mentioned, and it’s easy to see why – few pubs offer the level of execution and creativity found here, without veering into stuffy or overly formal territory. You can equally enjoy a pint and a snack at the bar or a full three-course feast upstairs, and in both cases walk out satisfied.

One of the strongest impressions is how the Bull & Last honoris its 18th-century origins while feeling current and vibrant. The historical details (the name’s story, the century-old woodwork, the sense that generations have passed through its doors) provide a depth of character that can’t be manufactured. At the same time, the 21st-century renovations, the inventive menu, and the inclusion of boutique rooms show it’s not stuck in the past – it’s a living, evolving establishment. This blend of old and new creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to a broad range of patrons. Tourists will appreciate the authentic London charm; locals appreciate the consistent quality and friendly faces.

Service, as noted, is personal and warm, reinforcing that feeling that The Bull & Last is a pub with a heart – owned and run by people who care about the customer experience. It doesn’t feel corporate or cookie-cutter at all. And despite being in esteemed rankings (Top 50 Gastropubs, etc.), it retains a down-to-earth vibe. There’s no dress code, no hushed voices; it’s simply a fantastic pub that welcomes all, whether you’re there to quiz with neighbours on Sunday or celebrate a birthday dinner.

If we had to find a drawback, perhaps the only one is that success means you often need a reservation to ensure a table for dining – spontaneous drop-ins can be tricky at peak times because it’s so popular. But that’s a testament to its appeal. Prices, as discussed, aren’t cheap, but you undoubtedly get what you pay for. In terms of accessibility, a minor nitpick is the lack of step-free access to toilets or the upstairs dining, but the staff do their best to accommodate on the ground floor for anyone who needs it.

The Bull & Last Highgate stands out as a shining example of a modern British gastropub. Its combination of a prime location near Hampstead Heath, an excellent rotating beer selection, outstanding seasonal cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit. Whether you’re in search of a North London pub with a quiz night to engage in some friendly trivia, or you’re on a mission to find the best pub food in North London, The Bull & Last should be high on your list. It’s the kind of place that lingers fondly in your memory – once you’ve savoured a lazy Sunday lunch or a cosy evening here, you’ll understand why this pub has such a loyal following. In a city full of pubs, The Bull & Last is truly one of the special ones, seamlessly blending the past and present to deliver an experience that is, quite simply, the bull’s last word in North London pub excellence.