A Creative Journey Through London's Pubs: Lydia Wood's Artistic Quest

Lydia Wood, a 31-year-old artist, aims to draw all of London's pubs, having already completed about 300 out of an estimated 2,800. This project serves both as an artistic endeavor and a commentary on the challenges faced by these social hubs.

In the heart of southeast London, at 10:30 a.m. on a sunny Wednesday, Lydia Wood, 31, found inspiration beside a dumpster. With her easel set up, she began sketching The Lord Clyde, a historic pub from 1913 nestled in Southwark. An hour ticked by as she focused intently on translating the pub's essence onto paper, momentarily interrupted by a passer-by who exclaimed, “Oh wow, that’s so good!” Wood simply responded, “Thank you, I’ve got a long way to go,” acknowledging not only her current drawing task but the daunting journey that lies ahead.

Wood has embarked on a remarkable mission — to illustrate every pub in London. To date, she has completed around 300 drawings and estimates that approximately 2,500 pubs remain. According to pub data from CGA by NIQ, Wood's challenge is substantial, reflecting a love both for drawing and for the city’s unique social watering holes. Armed with a self-proclaimed title as a “pub person,” her selection process is spontaneous, allowing her instincts and whims to guide her through the bustling streets toward her next subject.

In her artistic exploration, Wood has captured not only the architectural charm of these establishments but also the pressing issues confronting them. Many pubs in London face hardships brought on by increasing rents and various societal changes, prompting a wave of anxiety within communities that cherish their local drinking spots. Through her innovative portrayal of these beloved venues, Wood creates an invaluable visual archive, celebrating London’s nightlife while igniting conversations about the future of these iconic establishments.