London’s finest hidden pubs
It’s easy to stumble into London’s iconic pubs, the ones where Shakespeare trod the boards, or Dickens scribbled his next novel. What’s more difficult is finding that special pub that’s tucked away from the crowds of tourists and passersby down alleyways, through archways and up side streets. These are the hidden gems that are celebrated by pub tour guide and founder of Liquid History Tours, John Warland, and acclaimed photographer, Horst Friedrichs, in Local Legends.
With a foreword from Suggs, this book brings together 38 of London’s finest hidden pubs, from the city centre to its outer limits and beyond, these watering holes are permeated by personality and a passion for traditional hospitality. With a foreword from Madness frontman, Suggs, and evocative texts from Warland, Local Legends guides readers through the richly woven history of each establishment, with insights from the custodians of some of the oldest pubs in London, including The Seven Stars and Ye Olde Mitre in Holborn.
While the interiors might not boast architectural wonders, their unique qualities are brought to life through Friedrichs’ stunning photography, which illuminates their character and charm, their idiosyncratic hosts and patrons, the menus scrawled on chalkboard, worn leather stools, and quirky artefacts. The pubs are the stars of this invaluable book that’s as informative as it is collectable.
Horst Friedrichs is a photographer whose work has appeared in the National Geographic, The New York Times, and Stern. He lives in London, UK.
John Warland established Liquid History Tours in 2011. As a noted garden designer, winning six RHS Gold Medals at the Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows, he explores the streets of London for quirky history, liquid refreshment and horticultural bounty. Little wonder that a beer garden is his happy place. He is the author of the bestselling book Liquid History: An Illustrated Guide to London’s Greatest Pubs and is based in London, UK.
Published by Prestel: May 16th (UK), 2024
RRP £32.50
ISBN: 978-3-7913-8973-8
Hardcover, 336 pages, 17 x 24 cm.
300 colour illustrations
