Dream of shipbuilders. It is the year 1826. Imagine Putney’s waterfront bustling with activity. The Bricklayer’s Arms wasn’t always called that. Back then, it was the Waterman’s Arms. It served the men who worked on the Thames. They built ships and kept London’s river traffic flowing.
The Bricklayer’s Arms stands on a site steeped in history. Before the pub, a coaching house and blacksmith’s forge stood here. Think of the horses and the clang of hammers. This spot has always been a hub of activity.
Fast forward to the late 19th century. The District line railway extended its reach. Construction boomed in Putney. Bricklayers replaced watermen as the pub’s main clientele. The name changed to the Bricklayer’s Arms. It reflected the times.
The Bricklayer’s Arms nearly disappeared. In the early 2000s, it was briefly known as the Putney Brick. Owners planned to sell it for redevelopment. Luckily, the Newman family stepped in. They bought the pub at auction in 2002.
Becky Newman, a former actress, took over in 2005. She had appeared in Casualty and The House of Eliott. Together with her husband John, she transformed the Bricklayer’s Arms. It became a beloved local once again.
The Bricklayer’s Arms is more than just a pub. It’s a community hub. It offers craft beers and cask ales. There are many events. The pub has a popular pub quiz. Traditional Irish music sessions take place every Thursday. It’s a place to gather and connect.
National Geographic recognized the Bricklayer’s Arms as a Victorian gem. CAMRA has also honored it multiple times. The pub blends history with a modern, community-focused approach.
The Bricklayer’s Arms faced another challenge in 2020. Like many pubs, it closed during the lockdown. But the owners used the time to improve the interior. They added new toilets and a patio. The pub reopened, preserving its charm.
Today, the Bricklayer’s Arms thrives. It offers a wide selection of beers. It hosts community events. Its doors are open. The Bricklayer’s Arms continues to be a vital part of Putney. The pub stands as a testament to community spirit. So raise a glass to the Bricklayer’s Arms. It is a place where history and community meet.