The Spaniards Inn, Golders Green  

The Spaniards Inn, established circa 1585, is a pub soaked in history. Dick Turpin's father was landlord here in the 18th century, it was referenced in Dicken's Pickwick Papers and Keats allegedly wrote his Ode to a Nightingale in the garden. Housed in a charming grade II listed building, the pub's interior is divided into separate rooms and areas featuring wooden beams and low ceilings, lending the place a cosy atmosphere. Its initially hard to spot, the Spaniards is actually part of M&B's expanding unbranded chain, so you'll find a pretty good selection of beers - there's usually a number of guest ales on the pumps and our visit also saw the excellent Budvar Dark on offer. In winter its a rather inviting place, but the big draw here in the warmer months is the large back garden. Recently renovated, however, its filled with heat lamps and giant marquee-style umbrellas, which means it isn't as quaint as it once was. Most importantly, however, is our recommendation to visit on a weekday, as the Spaniards gets extraordinarily busy at the weekend; we've experienced 30 minute queues just to get a drink on a Sunday afternoons. You have been warned.

reviewed:
03/02/2008

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

large beer garden

dogs welcome

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