Great Pubs of London - by George Dailey (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A pocket-sized edition of the best-selling Great Pubs of London, this book celebrates London's most significant and historic pubs.

For centuries, the pub has been an essential part of London's cultural and social fabric. This book takes readers through the doors of 25 historically and architecturally significant London pubs. Through photographs specially commissioned for this project, readers can explore these institutions--from snob screens to 400-hundred-year-old flagstone floors. Engaging texts highlight what makes each pub so special, their place in London's history, the personalities who have frequented them, the events that occurred inside, and the ways pubs have contributed phrases such as "on the wagon" and "one for the road" to the modern lexicon. This book reveals why the Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden earned the nickname the "Bucket of Blood," and features a pub that Charles Dickens described as a "great rambling queer old place". Furthermore, the book muses over the chances that Casanova paid a visit to The Dog and Duck in Soho, and uncovers the location of Charles De Gaulle's favorite wartime watering hole. This fascinating book is a must-have for anyone with a love for these London institutions and its new, easy-to-carry format makes it perfect for taking on a historic pub crawl.

Review Quotes

"I suggest you check out Great Pubs of London - a delightful coffee table book, photographed by the wonderful Charlie Dailey... It's a beautiful celebration of the capital's most historic watering holes." -Richard Branson, Virgin

"When thoughts turn to ale, images from London pubs spring to mind. Embodying that rare quality of romance combined with heritage and 'oblivion of care and freedom from solitude'(from Dr. Samuel Johnson) a London pub delivers as no other can. George Dailey's lavish collection of pubs and stories nearly suffices to re-create that experience so may miles away, while the dark days of winter threaten. Getting lost in the gorgeous photography expands the pleasure of the pint of ale so readily at hand." -All About Beer

About the Author

GEORGE DAILEY has more than forty years of experience in the food and drink industry. One of the pioneers of the modern English gastropub, he continues to run successful destination inns in Oxfordshire.

CHARLIE DAILEY is a photographer whose work includes documenting life backstage at The Royal Ballet, Richard Branson's Necker and Moskito islands, and life in Africa. She previously spent 15 years as a camerawoman for film and television, working on a number of award winning shows.

SIR IAN MCKELLEN is a British actor and leaseholder of The Grapes pub in Limehouse.