Once central to their communities, these establishments were places where locals met to drink, talk, and unwind. Now, many exist only in memory.
The decline of traditional pubs is a growing problem across the UK. Last year alone, 412 pubs shut their doors, with London suffering the most closures.
The capital lost 55 pubs, though it still has 3,470 keeping its drinking culture alive. Despite this, many communities have been left without a local.
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.
Sam, whose favourite lost pubs include the Zeitgeist in Lambeth and the 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.”
Using online reviews, pub guides, and local records dating back to the 1920s, Cullen uncovers the stories and the colourful characters who once drank in them.
Here are two of the most memorable lost pubs from the Kingston borough featured in the new book.
The Toby Jug – 1 Hook Rise South, Tolworth, KT5 9PB
The Toby Jug was a well-known suburban pub with a fascinating history. Opening in 1934, it initially served the growing Tolworth community but soon became more than just a local watering hole.
In the 1950s and ’60s, it became infamous as a meeting point for the Portland spy ring, with British naval officer Harry Houghton reportedly passing nuclear secrets to Soviet agents within its walls. This espionage scandal even led to a film adaptation, Ring of Spies (1964), featuring the pub itself.
By the 1970s, The Toby Jug had reinvented itself as a prominent live music venue. Most notably, on 10 February 1972, David Bowie introduced his Ziggy Stardust persona to the world here, marking a pivotal moment in rock history.
Other legendary acts, including Led Zeppelin, also performed there in their early days.
Despite its past, the pub struggled in the late 20th century and ultimately closed in 2001. Plans for a Tesco supermarket on the site never materialised, and the land remains empty to this day.
The Sun Inn – 10 Thames Street, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1PE
A beloved riverside pub, The Sun Inn was a staple of Kingston’s social scene for generations. Located near the historic market square, it provided a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
With its selection of traditional ales and hearty pub food, it became a favourite for those looking to unwind by the Thames.
The pub was known for its lively social events, from live music nights to quiz evenings, fostering a strong sense of community.
However, like many other historic venues, it faced challenges from rising costs and changing drinking habits.
Despite efforts to keep it afloat, The Sun Inn eventually closed in the early 2000s. The site was later redeveloped, and another piece of Kingston’s rich pub heritage was lost.
