The Black Lion, West Hampstead, NW6

Yesterday was my first time in here for about 5 years and the place was unrecognisable. For better or worse I'm not sure as I was never a big fan as it always used to be full of drunks and there was an air of depression. Maybe the refurb has swung the pub too far in the opposite direction for my liking. Barmaid was friendly enough, but noisy outside seating with a bus stop five foot from the table we were sitting at. I did notice the beer garden at the rear a little later and it looked a lot more appealing than the position we had chosen, but alas it was a little late. There's not a great selection of draught and no real ales, but plenty of bottles and spirits which I'd imagine the usual clientele preferring. This place is nice enough if you like gastro pubs, but I'm afraid it's not for me.