We're at 104 Finchley Road at one of the main junction points and yet this pub is almost lost in the noise maelstrom of the modern traffic flow of the Finchley Road.The North Star was built in 1850 - one of the many watering holes that appeared as the route became more popular (from the 1830's onwards) - an alternative from either Watling Street (Kilburn High Road) or the windy routes up and through Hampstead.
It's a strong and dominant architecture but of course is now aligned with the route of the Metropolitan line which apparently runs a mere 3 feet under the cellar - from where the vibration and noise can be easily heard.
This has to be one of the nicest pub signs and for lovers of Philip Pullman surely worth a stop-off for a drink and picture?
The ironwork on the first floor balcony is original to 1850 and is the last bit that reflects this pubs role as a viewing and resting spot - the roof used to have a balustrade from which one could survey north west London - now the building feels decidedly low rise, but upon a time was a significant height in the local architecture.
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