Where can you find a genuine country pub in London with probably the largest garden in the capital Moreover, one that also benefits from an enclosed courtyard external bar following through to an open landscaped area, and finally, with a front terrace that can provide dining for 100 people. Search no further, as all you need to do is to journey out a little way from Central London to Hampstead and locate The Freemasons Arms, situated a stone's throw from The Heath.

In 2004 it was converted back to its former glory and has already taken its place as one of London's premier gastropubs. You should appreciate the smart interior, featuring open kitchens, stone fired ovens and log burning fires, offset by beautifully landscaped decking for al fresco dining, making a stunningly different experience to anywhere else that you could find in London.

The atmosphere at the Freemasons Arms is relaxed, friendly and informal, while the overall impression is of a pub which is comfortable, light and open.

How wonderful to find somewhere with two beautiful gardens, seating a total of two hundred people? Over the summer months you could meander the day away there enjoying fine food and chilled wines and beers, trying to forget about the worries of work; mind you, you would have probably got the sack at the end of it as you would have lost track of time!

To set the right note of fashionable sociability there are sharing plates, box baked Camembert with red onion jam and rustic bread and Greek mezze of taramasalata with red pepper hummus, tzatziki, feta and flatbreads.

Amongst the starters, there is freshly made soup, smoked mackerel pâté, seared pigeon breast, or a red onion tart. The salads - sorry, that should read 'leaves' - offer Persian chicken kebabs, fattoush salad, yoghurt and mint dressing, and for the seafood fiends some smoked trout, prawn, pancetta, horseradish dressing, watercress, spinach and baby potatoes.

These days no self-respecting gastropub can afford to be without its pizza range; expect to find a classic Margherita of tomato, mozzarella, oregano and basil, another with pepperoni, chorizo, tomato and jalapeños. Pastas include rigatoni, pork, veal and oregano meatballs with arrabiata sauce, and smoked haddock risotto.

For the big event, there is always a fish of the day on request. The spit chicken with roast garlic, lemon, thyme, aioli and frites is worth trying too. The classic burger, which has risen from the confines of fast food chains, carves a niche for itself on the menu and comes with onion, gherkin, mustard mayo, cheese and bacon. For hearty eaters there is a five spice duck confit, or lamb rack with a spiced dukkah crust, char-grilled stuffed peppers and minted potatoes.

A wide range of supporting dishes includes Belgian frites and mayo, and cabbage, leeks and peas. Desserts are some of the best you'll encounter with apple and frangipane gallette and Cognac ice cream, and there is also a selection of local cheeses to set the buffs alight.

In the winter the two log fires welcome people looking for a calming oasis amongst the bustle of Hampstead. An interesting wine list as well as great beers all adds to the reputation of what must now be considered as one of London's finest pubs.

For their latest menu and much more information, visit their Website. Please note that the E-Mail Contact is for enquiries only, not for bookings.