Once central to their communities, these pubs are now only memories for locals. Across the UK, over 400 pubs closed last year, with London seeing the highest number of losses.
Of the 412 closures, 55 were in the capital. Despite this, there are still 3,470 pubs in London keeping the city’s pub culture alive.
A new book, London’s Lost Pubs by Sam Cullen (£20, Pen and Sword), explores the history of more than 200 pubs that have disappeared in recent decades.
Drawing on online reviews and pub guides from the 1920s onwards, Cullen uncovers their stories.
Cullen, whose favourite lost pubs include the Zeitgeist in Lambeth and Sun and Dove in Camberwell, said: “As much as it’s sad that these pubs don’t exist any more, I wanted to make sure they are not lost to time by telling their stories, their history, and some of the quirky characters who drank in them.
“Pubs can tell you so much about social and cultural history. The book is a celebration of pubs that existed as a vehicle for looking at aspects of London life.
“My criteria for inclusion was that they closed within the past twenty-five years, and there was an interesting story to tell.”
Lost Pubs by Sam Cullen is published by Pen and Sword Books on January 31.
Here is a look at some of the most memorable lost pubs from Greenwich and Bexley which feature in the new book.
The Barge Pole – 32 Corraline Walk, SE2 9SU
Situated in Thamesmead, The Barge Pole reflected the area’s brutalist architecture and mixed reputation.
Some locals remember it as a lively spot in the 1970s, while others recount less savoury incidents, including organised dog fights.
Jim Davidson reportedly performed there early in his career, though this is unconfirmed.
It featured in the 2014 film The Guvnors before being demolished in 2018 as part of a redevelopment project.
The Director General – 55 Wellington Street, SE18 6PQ
Named after a Victorian gun, this Woolwich pub was known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate interiors. Later, it became a popular gay-friendly venue.
Despite protests, it was demolished in 2008 to make way for a Tesco store, which later won the Carbuncle Cup for its unattractive design.
The Montague Arms – 289 Queen’s Road, SE15 2PA
This New Cross pub was famous for its eccentric decor, featuring a skeleton, taxidermy and a deep-sea diving suit.
Opened in the 1860s, it became a cult venue under Peter Hoyle, hosting big names like Nick Cave and Shane McGowan.
A 2018 revamp into a gastropub stripped away its charm, and it closed a year later. It remains derelict, with redevelopment plans facing local opposition.
Railway Tavern – Forest Road, DA8 2NU
Built for rail workers in Slade Green in the early 20th century, this pub had a reputation for being unwelcoming. It closed in the early 2000s and was converted into apartments in 2006.
The Royal George – 2 Blissett Street, SE10 8UP
This Greenwich pub, dating back to the 19th century, was known for its model ships and stained-glass windows.
Once celebrated as a hidden gem, it closed in the early 2010s due to declining sales.
The building was converted into flats, though its original signage remains.
The Wat Tyler – 21 Telemann Square, SE3 8YR
Built in 1972 on the Ferrier Estate in Kidbrooke, The Wat Tyler started as a community hub.
Over time, as the estate faced challenges, the pub’s reputation declined. It closed in 2000 and was demolished in 2013 during the estate’s redevelopment.
The Woolwich Infant – 9 Plumstead Road, SE18 7BZ
Named after a massive gun once displayed at Woolwich Dockyard, this pub was a staple of the market area.
It briefly revived after featuring in Derelict London, but it eventually became a clothes shop and then a Sam’s Chicken branch. Its sign remained until 2019.
The Woodman – 35 The Slade, SE18 2NB
One of Plumstead Common’s “Idler” pubs, The Woodman opened in the 1850s and was known for its light-hearted name.
It remained popular until its closure in 2010. Now an Indian restaurant, its pub heritage can still be seen in its signage.
