Masters get a makeover at historic Hampstead Pub

A pub featuring a rare collection of art by the Belgian master Jan Van Beers has undergone an extensive restoration programme. The Flask pub in Hampstead – a Grade II listed building, which dates back to 1874 – has been lovingly restored to its former glory thanks to a major investment by Young’s.

The company injected £750,000 into the project, which saw the building’s striking 19th century fireplaces, tiling and wood panelling return to their original condition.

The pub’s centrepiece is a panelled wooden screen dating back to 1881. Within its glass frames are displayed a collection of works by the nineteenth century artist Jan Van Beers, whose father was the famous Flemish poet of the same name.

The Flask is also the stuff of modern legend. The pub was a favourite with renowned comedy duo Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, who were thought to have penned some of their famous plays while enjoying a pint in The Flask’s popular lounge.

In addition to the renovations, the pub’s menu has been restored to reflect its Victorian surrounds. The menu has been created with a nod to the traditional London chophouses of the 1800s, with meat sourced locally from Steele Of Hampstead - a family-run butchers who have been serving the village for more than 40 years.

On Sundays visitors can tuck into a seasonal roast, gathered around the newly installed chef’s table. Those in search of a real taste of London can tuck into a jellied eel and cockle platter or a traditional Victorian Po-Boy – an oyster sandwich.

The pub has extended its existing range of Young’s award-winning beers and will now serve five cask ales throughout the year, including the flagship Young’s Bitter. An extensive wine list has also been added, featuring a number of English wines from the Three Choirs vineyard in Gloucestershire. It’s just one of the many reasons why The Flask will continue to be an English treasure for many years to come.