Legendary Clapham North pub to close after 20 years

By Paloma Lacy

News that one of Clapham’s most legendary pubs will close this month has left the owner and regulars upset, calling it the “end of an epic chapter”.

The building housing The Clapham North, in Clapham Road, has been reclaimed by landlord Young’s, after 20 years of trading by Livelyhood Venues Pub Group.

South London pub group Livelyhood said it was “devastated” by the situation it finds itself in, and is keen to scotch the suggestion that the business was anything other than thriving.

With the lease of The Clapham North up for renewal, Young’s was able to oppose it on the grounds that it “intends to occupy the premises for the purpose of its own business”.

Young’s confirmed a new pub is coming, the details of which are not yet known.

The loss of the Clapham North after 20 years leaves a hole in the hearts of loyal regulars.

“The Clapham North was my first site. We created and built this brilliant business and we are very proud of that and for so many special memories that it has created, for so many people, during that time,” said founder and managing director of Livelyhood, Sarah Wall.

She added: “It’s is the end of an epic chapter in our journey. We’d like to thank all of our customers and the community for their and would love to celebrate ‘The North’ with as many of them as possible before we close.”

Plans for events across the final long weekend of trading – from March 23 onwards – are under way.

With people at the centre of its business, Livelyhood hopes to ensure that there are positive outcomes for all of the team of 25 from the Clapham North, and will work closely with all parties to ensure this is the case.

Group business remains buoyant, with The Rosy Hue, in Elephant & Castle, opening late last year, and further new openings planned for later this year and early 2024.

A spokesman for Young’s said: “We acquired The Clapham North, as a tenanted pub, several years ago.

“When the current tenant’s lease expires, The Clapham North will become a Young’s pub alongside our other Clapham neighbourhood pubs, the Windmill and the Nightingale.

“It will be closed for a period of time while we refurbish this iconic establishment.”

Pictured top: The Clapham North (Picture: Livelyhood)