If you ever wander through Tottenham in North London, you might see something a little unusual. Adjacent to the historic 17th century Tottenham High Cross monument on the High Road is a small pub with a small garden.
From afar, it seems like a small beer paradise in the middle of a barren landscape of concrete and cement. But as you approach, you’ll notice something even more peculiar – two signs flanking the building, one reading ‘Ladies’ and the other ‘Gentlemen’.
That’s because this structure, built a century ago, was originally a public restroom. Indeed, it served as a public amenity until just a few years ago, offering respite to the thousands of football fans who congregated each week around the nearby Seven Sisters tube station on their way to or from the Tottenham Hotspur FC stadium further up the road.
However, more recently the public toilet was closed and resurfaced, turning into a derelict eyesore at the junction of the A10 and Monument Way.
However, this building was rejuvenated when it was renovated and transformed into a ‘micropub’ in 2018, aptly named The High Cross.
Although it still has the outward appearance of a public toilet, the interior has undergone a total transformation. The toilets and urinals were ripped out and the walls refreshed with a fresh coat of glossy white paint.
The quirky pub which has been transformed from an old toilet block into a cozy drinking spot has become the talk of the town. The once separate men’s and women’s facilities have been united by breaking through the partition wall, and elegant wooden floors now create a snug bar area.
Amazingly, despite its compact size, the establishment has 10 beer taps, offering a selection of craft beers, with several from local London breweries.
Not just about the drinks, the pub also serves a hearty menu from its small kitchen. Customers can eat everything from burgers and pies to juicy steaks and a traditional Sunday roast.
One patron praised the Sunday roast, calling it the “tastiest and most generous” they’ve come across in ages, praising it for being “great value for money“. Another left a glowing review of their visit, saying: “It was the best experience I’ve had in an old toilet!” a nod to the place’s former life.
With a great rating on Google, it seems many people agree with these sentiments.
The pub caters for everyone and also offers vegan and vegetarian options, along with non-alcoholic beer options. Due to the limited number of seats, customers are advised to Book in advance.
And in a respectful tribute to its history, the pub has thoughtfully included space for a customer toilet.
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