History of Kilburn and West Hampstead

The Black Lion, by Dick Weindling 2021 On 3 October 2023, CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) presented the Black Lion with an award as the winner in the National Pub Historic England Conservation category. Photo by Life in Kilburn To coincide with the award, we look at the history of this well-known pub. Kilburn High Road follows the line of an ancient highway, part of the Roman Watling Street. It became a well-used main road, and as the numbers of travellers increased, so they supported the growth of many pubs along both sides of the street. Some started as beer houses, lacking a liquor license but also selling groceries. Others offered a full range of services, from stabling to food, accommodation, and entertainment. A surprising number have survived, with many rebuilds dating from Victorian times. This was the age of the ‘gin palace’, large establishments with elaborate decorations and big exterior lantern lights advertising their presence.  The best surviving example on the High...