The Spurstowe Arms, arguably Hackney's most talked-about and meme-worthy public house, is expanding its empire within East London. The trendy venue, famous for its distinctive clientele and curated offerings, has announced it will be taking over The Elderfield in Lower Clapton.
From One East London Icon to Another
This move marks a significant expansion for the Spurstowe, a pub that has cultivated a reputation as much for its aesthetic – where fashion choices like Maison Margiela Tabi shoes and Arc'teryx jackets are commonplace – as for its drinks list. The takeover is scheduled for December 2025, promising to bring a slice of the Spurstowe's unique vibe to a new neighbourhood.
However, management is keen to stress that this is not a hostile invasion. In an interview with Broadsheet, the Spurstowe's manager, Lee Foster, emphasised a respectful approach. 'We don’t want to just barge in and create chaos in the community,' Foster stated, framing the project as a long-term investment rather than a 'smash and grab' operation.
Balancing Trend with Tradition
This community-focused statement appears to be a conscious effort to soften the pub's sometimes intimidating image, often associated with a crowd dedicated to sourdough, pét-nat, and specific fashion influences. Despite this, the new venture will not abandon its roots; patrons can still expect to find orange wines and pét nats on the menu.
The plan for The Elderfield is to enhance its existing historic character. A small renovation is planned for January, which will include a fresh coat of paint and the removal of modern fixtures to cultivate a more antique, authentic feel. The pub will also serve food, though details regarding the kitchen team are still under wraps. Currently, the Spurstowe's food is supplied by the popular Dough Hands pizza.
What This Means for East London's Pub Scene
The expansion of such a prominent venue signals continued evolution in East London's social landscape. It represents a blend of hyper-trendy culture with a stated desire for community integration. The success of this balancing act will be closely watched by locals and London pub enthusiasts alike.
The Elderfield is set to open its doors under the new management in December 2025, offering a new destination for East London's residents and trend-followers.
