The Garden Gate, NW3

I wasn’t expecting much from what looked to be a very busy pub in the heart of Hampstead Heath. But I was encouraged by the sight of handpumps clipped for Hopback Summer Lightning, Brakspear’s Oxford Gold, Liberation IPA, and Downton Ed’s American Red, as well as Old Rosie and Wyldwood ciders. Sandwiches, including chips are around £7, and main courses mainly £10 - £12. The pub’s now been completely opened up, but it still retains one or two interesting features, such as the leaded light glazed panels at the top of the windows, and the glazes “Saloon Bar” sign in one of the doors. The furnishings are good quality normal tables and chairs, and all the tables had on them a small sprig of flowers. There was also a large vase of lilies on the bar counter. These all show that someone is making an effort to make the pub comfortable and welcoming. There is also a beer garden to the side, which was very popular on a very hot July day. This is not the sort of pub I would go out of my way to visit, although the ale selection was pretty good. Or perhaps I’m becoming blasé. But I would definitely drop in for another pint if passing.