Back to the Local

One of the Financial Times' 'Best Summer Books of 2024''Probably the most delightful and evocative book ever produced on the English pub.' Slightly Foxed'Wonderful . . . a detailed study of life in London pubs.' Islington Tribune'Both a historical document and a time capsule that stands the test of time, from its charming illustrations by Gorham's collaborator, artist Edward Ardizzone, to the index of London taverns that are (largely) mostly still open.' R�is�n Lanigan, Irish Independent'A book that glows like the logs on an open fire or the ruddy features of the regular ordering another glass of Burton.' Andy Miller, author of A Year of Dangerous Reading and co-host of the Backlisted podcast'A little gem of a book.' Henry Jeffreys, author of Empire of Booze and Vines in a Cold ClimateIn this love letter to the London pub, our genial guide takes the reader through all aspects of the local hostelry as it was in the 1940s - a time of dark wood, dark corners and dark beer. Back to the Local is a fascinating nostalgic ramble around the post-war pubs of London: we are introduced to The Regulars and Barmaids Old and New; we venture into the familiar surroundings of the Saloon Lounge, Saloon Bar and Public Bar and squeeze into possibly the lesser known Jug-And-Bottle Bar, where customers queue to buy ale to drink elsewhere; we learn about 'lost' drinks such as 'The Mother-in-Law' or 'The Snort'. A truly memorable pub crawl, illustrated by the wonderfully atmospheric drawings of Edward Ardizzone. This edition includes a fold out map showing the pubs featured in the book which are still trading, plus a new preface by Robert Elms.