Capturing the Spirit of London: One Pub at a Time

Artist Lydia Wood is on a quest to draw all the pubs in London, having completed around 300 with a goal of reaching 2,800. Through her art, she highlights the unique character of each establishment while shedding light on the challenges facing the city's pub culture.

On a sunny Wednesday morning in southeast London, 31-year-old artist Lydia Wood set up her easel next to a dumpster, ready to capture her latest subject, The Lord Clyde pub, a historic venue established in 1913. Armed with sunscreen and determination, Lydia spent an hour immersed in her drawing, channeling the intricate details of the iconic boozer while passers-by, like Emily Finch, offered compliments and encouragement.

“I’ve got a long way to go,” she replied graciously, hinting at the enormous ambition that drives her. Lydia is on a mission to draw every pub in London—a staggering total of approximately 2,800 establishments, as per data from CGA by NIQ, a leading research consultancy. To date, she has successfully sketched around 300, each artwork representing not just a pub, but also a piece of the fabric of London’s nightlife.

With her background as a self-proclaimed “pub person,” Lydia’s choice of subjects often comes by whim and instinct, navigating the city’s streets in a zigzag pattern. Through her work, she aims to create a visual archive that not only celebrates these beloved local venues, but also reflects the looming challenges they face—such as skyrocketing rents and evolving societal norms that pose a threat to their existence.

As she continues her quest, Lydia finds herself at the heart of a conversation about the future of London’s pubs, turning her artistic journey into a movement that advocates for the preservation of these cultural landmarks. Her ongoing project not only highlights her artistic talent but shines a light on an important aspect of urban life that many fear may be fading away.