Two brothers, who saved a North London pub from closure, have discovered their great-grandfather was a regular during the 1930s. Ben and Ed Robson took over the pub along with childhood friend Adam Gostyn earlier this year.
The Alliance, on Mill Lane in West Hampstead, fell upon hard times during the pandemic when it closed temporarily. Eventually, the much-loved part of the community was put up for sale by the former owner. It was later proposed that the establishment be transformed into flats, however, this suggestion was met with strong opposition from local residents.
After locals started a petition to protect the building’s status as a pub, Ben, Ed, and Adam bought the business through their hospitality group Loci Pubs. Along with executive chef Scott Soteriou, the new owners restored the building to its former glory before reopening it to the public.
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(Image: Polly Hancock/ Ham&High)
Brothers Ben and Ed, whose mission is to save beloved pubs from demolition, were surprised to later discover a family connection to The Alliance. Their great-grand father Bernhard, who moved to the capital in 1938, became a regular at the pub after fleeing from Vienna during the war.
For years, the Alliance continued to be a core part of the community. In 2021, it was even listed as an Asset of Community Value.
(Image: The Alliance)
Now, the bar is fully stocked with a selection of draught and craft beer from British Breweries. The seasonal menu, created in partnership with local suppliers, frequently features dishes such as Fried Kentish Brown Egg and fully loaded Sunday roasts. The pub becomes especially busy on Thursdays when staff host the weekly pub quiz.
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