When a beloved pub closes to get a facelift, there's a worry it's about to lose its charm to the typical gastropub interiors gloss. That has not been the case with the Hope & Anchor , one of the capital's most popular pubs, which has returned with a new lease of life that puts it into a league of London superpubs. The Brixton pub has been drawing in punters from far and wide since 1935, and is best known for its tardis-like garden that's among the biggest in London.
It reopened its doors on November 7 after undergoing a two-month makeover, so I popped in to see the changes for myself. Having lived in the area for years and enjoyed nights out at Hope & Anchor in the past, I was initially convinced I had somehow stepped into the wrong pub. The interior has gone from tatty to tasteful in one enormous leap.
Read More On Pubs Gone are the neon signs, pink wallpaper and disco balls that gave the pub a 24/7 nightclub feel — instead, punters will find themselves surrounded by dark wood panelling and leather Chesterfield sofas. A great British pub with a twist If the aim of the redesign was to bring back the concept of the Great British pub , it's achieved that beyond the mere decor, too. In its new incarnation the Hope & Anchor feels like a cosy community pub; one that's lunch-friendly, kid-friendly and dog-friendly (you can even grab some treats for your pooch at the bar).
Along with a greater range of locally-brewed beers , Sunday roasts are on offer here for the first time, but .
