The historic public house situated on the southern slopes of hampstead's hills closed on the 14th July 2000. Most regulars now drinking at Sir Richard Steele's pub across the road in sight of the garden we are in now. Set back and raised up fom the highway this shady spot  was a haven for quiet drinkers of a summer's day. It was here that Joe Davis, the 18th century giant of the Load, would have sought refuge from the bachanalia of the bar, for a short break (of wind), before getting back to his pint.

to be continued............