The Bull & Last

from $280
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Photo of The Bull & Last
Superior King Room
1 / 10
Large Double Room
Superior King Room
“A boutique inn with rooms in Highgate. Bespoke artwork, luxe materials and spoiling amenities elevate a night here beyond a typical stopover. Passionate staff serve top-tier seasonal cuisine and craft drinks - a local favourite full of thoughtful detail”

Hotel review

Upon hearing you’ve booked a night at ‘the Bull’, discerning Londoners become misty-eyed. “I love that pub,” or “get the steak”, they’ll sigh. Low-key yet upscale and thoughtfully tied to its roots, locals adore this atmospheric ‘inn.‘ 

The 18th-century building, once the most northern coaching inn on the road leading out of London, still offers affable owners, great beers on tap, and an interesting crowd. These days, an ambitious menu honours classic pub fare, served by candlelight: juicy onglet steak comes with crispy chips, while the fish board arrives stacked with fried cod cheek, house-cured gravlax, and brown crab. Start your evening with glasses of fizz from Kent wine producers that genuinely rival champagne and end it by simply wafting upstairs to bed - most satisfying.

A charming manager will throw your bag over his shoulder and walk you to one of seven uniquely decorated bedrooms, kneeling to adjust the radiator as he points out thoughtful touches – a Roberts radio playing soft jazz, a freestanding bath, cocktail shaker, a well-stocked mini-fridge… and even The Bull’s beautiful cookbook, with a captivating foreword by food critic Giles Coren. It’s the perfect continuation of a highly curated aesthetic, with fringed lampshades, 100% wool throws, panelled walls, and display walls of real butterflies. Close the shutters and enjoy a slice of central London respite, or find the bright lights of town minutes away.

Rolled up on the bed, a paper map marks spots for picnicking on Hampstead Heath, exploring Little Venice, swimming in the Men’s Ponds, and wandering through atmospheric Highgate Cemetery – another considered touch that encourages guests to explore beyond the usual tourist trails - and elevates The Bull above other ‘pubs with rooms’. They’ll see you out with a strong coffee and a flaky pastry, but you’re equally welcome to sit back and thumb through the weekend papers.

This place is about roots and refinement - a proper North London gem.

Amy Rose Everett

Recommended for

  • Great walks

    • Enjoy a leisurely day at Hampstead Heath, with its gorgeous meadows, walking trails, and picturesque Parliament Hill viewpoint

  • Cycling

    • Hire a stylish Brompton bike from the inn and discover the charming streets and green spaces of North London on two wheels

  • Local exploring

    • Perfectly situated for exploring London's Hampstead Heath and historic Highgate, with cosy, luxurious rooms to return to

  • Foodies

    • Indulge in dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, paired with a curated selection of fine wines and ales

  • Learning

    • Explore the rich history and art at nearby Kenwood House, a Georgian mansion offering cultural exhibitions and beautiful grounds

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the famous Highgate Cemetery, where you can admire Victorian architecture and the graves of notable historical figures

  • Other Activities

    • Take a dip in the historic Parliament Hill Lido, an open-air swimming pool that offers refreshing swims in a unique setting

  • Good wine list

  • Full of character

  • Lively

  • Gourmet

  • Romantic

  • Air conditioning

  • Contemporary

  • Restaurant with rooms

  • Disabled access

  • Antiques

  • Chic

  • Boutique

  • Artworks

  • Restaurant

Facilities

  • Rooms

    7 rooms in this hotel

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Good wine list

  • Bicycle hire

  • No pets

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Bar

  • Wifi

  • Air conditioning

  • Disabled access

  • Room service

  • Restaurant

Activities

  • Great walks

    • Enjoy a leisurely day at Hampstead Heath, with its gorgeous meadows, walking trails, and picturesque Parliament Hill viewpoint

  • Cycling

    • Hire a stylish Brompton bike from the inn and discover the charming streets and green spaces of North London on two wheels

  • Learning

    • Explore the rich history and art at nearby Kenwood House, a Georgian mansion offering cultural exhibitions and beautiful grounds

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the famous Highgate Cemetery, where you can admire Victorian architecture and the graves of notable historical figures

  • Other Activities

    • Take a dip in the historic Parliament Hill Lido, an open-air swimming pool that offers refreshing swims in a unique setting

Map & Location

Other reviews

The Bull and Last, London: ‘I love their grub and

It’s a pub – according to those who care about pubs. Also, once a week, it’s a shining light for quiz enthusiasts. Most recently, it has opened up six sumptuous rooms to stay in, and even offers picnic baskets for local walkers.

Originally published by The Guardian

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