Some pubs are the heart and soul of towns, serving as community hubs where generations create memories that are talked about long after the establishment has closed its doors. The Greyhound in Croydon was one such place.
Published by My London
This unassuming venue on Park Lane was a beloved spot for rock gigs, Christmas parties, and work dos for generations, and many locals still remember it fondly. But The Greyhound had an extra special feature – it was a stepping stone for many who would go on to become big names in music.
No ordinary music venue, Thin Lizzy, Black Sabbath, Rod Stewart, Elton John, Supertramp, and Status Quo are just some of the acts that former patrons like to mention. The Greyhound also boasted a rich history. The Greyhound Hotel had been a prominent feature on the High Street since the 1820s and was a hub of the town’s social life.
In Victorian times, it was a venue for various gentlemanly pursuits, including staging plays. As reported by Stage magazine in April 1928: “The Greyhound Repertory Players commenced their season on Monday, when they presented John Galsworthy’s drama ‘Loyalties.'”
A writer in the Croydon Chronicle in September 1900 said: “The Greyhound Hotel, Croydon, is among the most lemons (best) of south country hostelries. Centuries ago it was visited by royalty; it was always a favourite house of call on the road to London in the coaching days.”
Years later, as reported by Layers of London, the venue would host live music events every Sunday, courtesy of the “Croydon Blues Club”, which hired a large function room with a separate bar. The club attracted numerous high-profile acts, often before they gained widespread fame.
Notably, David Bowie performed with Roxy Music as the supporting act. Other notable performers included Supertramp, Elton John, Status Quo, Curved Air, Edgar Broughton, MC5, Stray, and many others. According to SussexHistoryForum.co.uk, The Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) played their first ever live gig at the Greyhound in 1972.
The pub’s Christmas parties are fondly remembered by locals, as well as the tradition of leaving drinks for employees of the nearby Nestle factory. David Thorne reminisced about the pub’s early days, writing: “Back in the day this was a lovely old coaching inn, they had a great dining area upstairs, and we went to quite a few dinner dances. Really comfortable bars and meeting areas.”
Lynne Case recalled her sole visit to the pub, where she helped dress brides-to-be in wedding dresses for a South London Press competition, describing it as “a great night” akin to a beauty pageant. Sam Corps reminisced: “Going there when 14 and my friend’s mum was there telling bouncer we were too young to go in.”
Anna Batten added: “I saw Rod Stewart there before he was famous, along with many other people.”
Another former patron remembers a special night when Black Sabbath took the stage. He shares: “Can’t remember the exact year, probably 1969-71, but performing was Black Sabbath at the Greyhound, Croydon. Extremely loud. Stood somewhere at the back and could only hear the guitars. Most vivid memory was lots of blokes sitting on the floor cross legged right in front of the stage shaking their heads to beat of Paranoid!”.
The stories could continue endlessly. The pub eventually underwent refurbishment and transformed into the equally legendary Blue Orchid nightclub. It has since been demolished to make way for the St George’s Walk development – but this is a pub that is truly missed.
This article follows the announcement of the London Mayor’s increased focus on the grassroots music scene last week.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “London’s grassroots music scene is renowned around the world. From providing opportunities for talented aspiring artists to develop their trade, to giving Londoners a great night out, our venues are an essential part of our life at night and provide a huge boost to our economy. However, they have faced huge challenges in recent years, which is why we’re joining with partners across the capital to champion all parts of London’s grassroots music scene. This special edition Tube map is a great way to highlight what a huge impact the scene has on our capital, as we continue to do all we can to support venues and build a more prosperous London for everyone.”