The inspiration behind the name of our lovely new pub: The Good Reader in Crouch End, N8.

You may or may not recognise his face from the from the iconic clocktower in the heart of Crouch End? He was a self made man. An importer of wine from France is how he came to wealth and became a philanthropist donating much of his money to the ‘poor’ or ‘ragged’ school movement taking children from the streets of Victorian England and teaching them to read and write. He cared deeply about upward social mobility which as we know – is an issue still to this day (after the last 14 years!). He was a good man. He later presided over the Hornsey local board, the council of its time and campaigned successfully to have some of the wonderful green spaces ruralised indefinitely and as a result – we get to continually enjoy parts of Alexandra park (Ally Pally), Highgate wood, Queens wood and most locally Priory Park through the selfless work he put in. The clocktower was indeed erected to commemorate the fine work he gave to the local area in 1905 but it’s a story that’s not commonly told.

He was a socially progressive man, a community driven man. Quite simply, he was a good man, so in the very spirit of Sir Henry Reader Williams, we give you, ‘The Good Reader’ in all its green glory.

Good to Know Before You Visit

Dog Friendly
We are a dog friendly pub to friendly dogs!

Card Payments Only
We are a cashless venue — all major cards accepted (except American Express).

Children
Our kids’ menu is available all week.
Please note: children are welcome until 7:30 PM. After this time, only children aged 12 and over may dine in the dining room — accompanied by a parent or guardian (obviously!).