King William IV
Camden
King William IV is where Hampstead comes for live music and open mic nights. It's the kind of place where weekends run late and the bar fills with people who want to be there, not just passing through. You'll catch Saturday late sets, midweek musicians testing new material, and the steady run of open mic nights that bring people keen to perform. Food keeps things practical. It sits in one of north London's quieter neighborhoods, which matters: there's a real community feel instead of the endless churn you get in busier areas. People come back because they know what they'll get.
££ · Pub
Upcoming at King William IV
About King William IV
The King William IV sits on Hampstead High Street in the heart of the village, a Grade II listed building that traces its roots back to around the 1830s when it served as a coaching inn on the route out to what was then a country village north of the City. Today it is one room wrapped around a central bar, with the remnants of old room dividers breaking the space into several snug corners.
The pub has a long and colourful history in Hampstead. For many years it was known as one of London's oldest gay pubs, a landmark on the local scene, before broadening into the mixed, all-welcome local it is now. That heritage is part of why it still draws a friendly, easy-going crowd.
Live music is a big part of the character here, with regular sessions across the week that range from rock covers to piano sing-alongs. It makes the King William IV a lively spot for an evening rather than just a quiet pint, though there are still quieter nooks if you want them.
With its central position, you are a short walk from Hampstead Underground station and the open expanse of Hampstead Heath, so the pub works equally well as a starting point for a walk or a place to settle in afterwards.
Getting there
King William IVNW3 1RE
Nearby venues
- The King William IV, Hampstead NW3 1RE
- Heath Street Camden
- Heath Street Baptist Church NW3 1DN
- The Well Walk Theatre NW3 1TS
- Burgh House and Hampstead Museum New End Square Hampstead London NW3 1LT
- Heath Street Hampstead London Map NW3 1DP
- The Freemasons Arms NW3 1NT
- Keats House NW3 2RR
Explore nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the King William IV in Hampstead?
The King William IV is on Hampstead High Street, right in the centre of the village. It is a short walk from Hampstead Underground station and close to the southern edge of Hampstead Heath. That makes it easy to reach on foot or by Tube.
Is the King William IV a historic pub?
Yes, it is a Grade II listed building dating from around the 1830s and originally served as a coaching inn. Inside you can still see traces of the old room layout in the way the space is divided. It is one of the older surviving pubs in the village.
Does the King William IV have live music?
Live music is a regular fixture at the pub, with sessions spread across the week. The line-up tends to mix rock, covers and piano sing-along nights. It is worth checking ahead for the current schedule as acts change.
What kind of crowd does the King William IV attract?
It has a friendly, mixed and welcoming atmosphere and has long been a well known local on the Hampstead scene. For many years it was one of London's oldest gay pubs, and it keeps that inclusive spirit today. Expect a relaxed village-pub feel.
Is the King William IV good before or after a walk on the Heath?
Yes, its position on the High Street puts it within easy reach of Hampstead Heath and Hampstead station. It makes a natural meeting point before heading out to the Heath or a place to unwind afterwards. The snug corners suit a longer stay.