Not only is North West London home to some of the most coveted dog walking spots in town, it’s also host to some of London’s most dog-friendly pubs. Whether you’re running free at Hampstead Heath, popping to Primrose Park or taking a walk around Camden Market, read on to discover the drinking spots that dogs and their owners can enjoy the most.
1. Adam & Eve
Address & Map: The Ridgeway, Mill Hill Village, NW7 1RL
Adam & Eve is a historic pub on the edge of greenbelt land (or as we like to call it, prime dog-walking space) in North-West London. Despite the resident pub cats, visiting dogs are made just as welcome as their feline friends with their own biscuit and water bowls given on arrival. Sit wherever you fancy; owners can eat with their dogs inside or within the walled Victorian garden to the rear (perfect for enjoying some loose-lead time in). The menus are the pub’s centrepiece—with small plates, sharing sized platters, and the Adam and Eve burger—it has humans and dogs alike drooling. Real ales, lagers and a selection of cider will keep you occupied while your dog gets to know all the other four-legged pub visitors.
2. The Spaniards Inn
Address & Map: Spaniards Rd, NW3 7JJ
Step off of Hampstead Heath and you’re within walking distance of dog-friendly pub The Spaniards Inn. Dogs are welcome in the bar area and there are even doggy tie hooks on the walls to secure them. The Spaniards Inn boasts one of the biggest pub gardens in North-West London, with water bowls sporadically placed for your dog to enjoy a cool drink after a long walk on the Heath. For muddy paws, check out the outdoor dog wash that’s perfectly placed for hosing off. The pub does get busy over the weekend, but if you can book ahead reservations for both two- and four-legged guests are handled with ease. The upstairs restaurant is for humans only, if you want to dine dog-free. Dog treats can also be bought from the bar, although you may find that your wee mate prefers the offcuts of your juicy steak. In winter, there’s a homely fire that’s the perfect spot for a doggy snooze.
3. The Wells Tavern
Address & Map: 30 Well Walk, NW3 1BX
The Wells Tavern is a favourite amongst four-legged patrons for a reason—the moment you enter the pub the welcoming staff make it clear that dogs are not just visitors, but esteemed guests. Occasionally, there are more dogs than people and table-hopping to make doggy-friends is firmly encouraged. Their dog menu offers dry food and water bowls are available on tap. Meanwhile, you can enjoy an ever-changing cocktail menu, music Mondays, and a pudding menu to drool over. You can’t take your dog upstairs to dine, but the entire ground floor has a no-lead policy so dogs can roam around the tavern to their heart’s content. Tables aren’t bookable on a Sunday so an early arrival is recommended. Finish up and you’re within walking distance of the Holy Grail for hounds; London’s Hampstead Heath where there are fields to run about in, grass to roll on, and ponds to splash around in.
4. Freemasons Arms
Address & Map: 32 Downshire Hill, NW3 1NT
Visit the Freemasons Arms in Hampstead, for a stylish stop-off on your Sunday afternoon stroll. From the website, to the welcome you’ll be given by staff, it’s dog-friendly through and through. Owners can eat inside with dogs, safe in the knowledge that there’s a separate eating area for anyone who isn’t furry-minded. On mild days, sit outside in the gated garden, where you can chat with loads of other dogs and their owners over a drink. The menu is full of drool-worthy dishes; from salmon tacos, to hand-stretched pizzas, there’s something for everyone. Compliment your meal with a cask-conditioned ale or fine wine from the extensive drinks list. Once you’re full, walk off your meal on Hampstead Heath which is right on the pub’s doorstep.
5. Chandos Arms
Address & Map: 31 Colindale Ave, NW9 5DS
The Chandos Arms in North-West London welcomes friendly dogs and their well behaved people. Locals note that it isn’t every day you can sit in front of an open fire eating fish and chips surrounded by your dogs—something the Chandos Arms offers proudly. They have a stash of doggy treats and plenty of water bowls to go around while you tuck into a traditional pub meal which could be crispy chicken wings or homemade burgers. Meanwhile, resident pub dog Coco the Dalmatian, who was recently rescued from kennels, wants to make as many friends as possible so expect a visit. Mere minutes’ walk away is Colindale Park and Silk Stream; two hotspots perfect for running around in. Once your dog gets tired, let him snooze by your side while you enjoy pub-provided board games with friends.
6. The Garden Gate
Address & Map: 14 South End Rd, NW3 2QE
For dog-friendly digs in prime North-West London check out The Garden Gate. This very dog-friendly patch has a huge outdoor space hosting a beer garden, alfresco dining, and plenty of water bowls to quench your dog’s thirst. The inside is pretty inspiring too, with 19th-century decor that weary walkers and their hounds who come in need of refreshment from nearby Hampstead Heath will enjoy. Dogs are welcome inside, although if you want to sit outside and haven’t booked it’s recommended that you get there early to secure your dog the best spot in the sun. There’s lots of seating outside and even a covered dining area which is great for keeping you and your dog dry on wet days. If you’re lucky, you may even catch their famous ‘Pup Idol’ competition. Take a look at their Facebook page for other canine-related events.
7. The New Inn
Address & Map: 2 Allitsen Rd, NW8 6LA
At The New Inn (or ‘Dog’s Inn’ as it is affectionately known by locals) they love inviting new dogs and their owners into the pack. Taking pride of place on their website, and often the bar, are their two well-trained doggies ‘Gin’ and ‘Fizz’ (what incredible names for a pair of pub dogs!) who will happily share their bar-side beds with your dog. Water bowls and doggy treats are available on request. Owners can enjoy delicious dishes made with locally-sourced meat or fish and at the weekend, their famous Sunday jazz sessions. The New Inn is adjacent to two of North-West London’s greatest parks, Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park, so it’s perfect for a scenic walk before lunch. There aren’t any outdoor areas adjoining the pub, but the lovely quiet road and wide pavements outside make taking your pup for a piddle a breeze. If your dog is more of a gentle soul, note that the pub does get exceptionally busy when there is a cricket match on at Lord’s Cricket Ground which is close by.
Want to find out more about London’s most dog-friendly pubs? Look no further:
East London
North London
South West London
South East London
West London
As you can see, London’s a very dog-friendly city but if you fancy going for a drink and your dog would prefer to stay at home, don’t worry! On Rover.com you’ll find plenty of local sitters who provide dog boarding in London. They’ll be happy to spend some quality time with your little buddy while you paint the town red.
