As reported in our previous edition, CAMRA Greater London’s John Young Memorial Award for 2025 was awarded to Robert Thomas, the founder of Remarkable Pubs Ltd. Over the last 40 years Robert has taken over pubs across London, many of them unloved, and has turned them into the heart of their communities. It all started when Robert and his wife, Jean, were cycling past the Prince George in Dalston (E8 3AG). They admired its classical pillared porch and architectural charm but didn’t much fancy a drink inside. Upon discovering the pub was for sale and, despite never having worked in or run pubs before, they decided to take a chance on the old building and carefully rescue it. This was the start of many. The Remarkable Pub estate now consists of 17 pubs, mainly in east and north London. All have been sympathetically refurbished. Remarkable Pubs are still a family business with Robert and Jean’s son and daughter now involved.
Andy Kinch from CAMRA’s East London branch said, “Robert’s venture has resulted in a very remarkable and much-loved set of pubs. Their acquisitions are always carefully restored with some magnificent examples including the Boleyn Tavern in Upton Park, where a huge amount of love and care went into bringing this beautiful and majestic building back to its former impressive Victorian glory.”
Ellie Eames, CAMRA’s Regional Director for Greater London, added, “At a time when so many pubs are altered with little regard to their heritage, Remarkable Pubs have bucked this trend and we are delighted to be awarding Robert the John Young Memorial Award. We think that John Young would approve!”
Robert said, “We are delighted to receive this much coveted award. My thanks go to all the people who have worked hard and contributed to our success. And thank you to all the customers who have supported us and given us inspiration and ideas for our pubs.”
The award was presented at the Prince George on 28 October. The presentation, as has now become a tradition, was made by Torquil Sligo-Young, the nephew of John Young. The photo shows Robert (centre) with Torquil (left) and Ellie.
Christine Cryne