King William IV (a.k.a. KW4), Hampstead  

Under new management, KW4 is a splendid mix of olde world pub and gay hot spot. Although it is the self-proclaimed "oldest gay pub in London", everyone is welcome. We have never been made to feel like straight interlopers, and the bar staff are fun and friendly. The blend of old and new can be seen everywhere. The front room has the embossed ceiling and dark wood of a traditional pub, but the window treatments, chairs and banquets are lush chenille. Quiz night (Weds. at 8) is brightened by their bawdy, flamboyant hostess, Sheila Bleige. Semi-regular, themed Cabaret Nights have recently been added. On the wall are sepia prints of Hampstead Village of yesteryear beside glossy glamour shots of drag queens. The dance/pop background music is fun, but not loud enough to stifle conversation. There are a few problems. On three occasions there were empty taps at the bar, narrowing the beer choices. The "garden" in the rear is a bare, utilitarian space with a few picnic tables where patrons must shout over the noise from the high street.

Link to your pub's web site

If your pub has a web site, you could link to it from this review. Contact us to find out more.