The Elgin

Although still bearing scars from its days as a Frog and Firkin, The Elgin has been reborn and returned to us. Built in 1853 by Dr Samuel Walker, a property- speculating clergyman who blew a sizeable inheritance in four years, it was then the only structure in Ladbroke Grove aside from a Poor Clares convent. But for the treasure- trove of spectacular stained- glass screens, lavish decorative wall tiles and delicious carved mahogany, we owe thanks to William Dickinson, who acquired the pub in 1892 and decorated it in the opulent style that was the fashion during the pub boom of the 1890s.
There's much else to admire at this 'listed' three- bar, tall- ceilinged, boozer, not least the pair of rotating real ales and a decent supply of Belgian bottled brews. In the 1970s the pub became famous as a centre for the Time Out- wielding 'alternative' society. The 101ers (precursors to The Clash) performed here every Thursday; Alexei Sayle and Keith Allen launched their careers in the back room; and then there was a little unpleasantness with drug- dealing… but we won't dwell on that. Now you'd be hard- pressed to find a better boozer in W11.

---

Contact Information

The Elgin
96 Ladbroke Grove
W11 1PY London

Tel. +442072295663