This store requires javascript to be enabled for some features to work correctly.
London & The Cotswolds
Public House
To officially wrap up Maison Flâneur’s British Summer focus and kick in the cosy season, we’re excited to spotlight the Public House Pubs: The Pelican, the iconic pub in Notting Hill, opened in 2022; The Bull in Charlbury (2023); and The Hero in Maida Vale, London (2024).
Known for their warm, inviting interiors and relaxed, stylish ambiance, they’ve quickly become go-to spots for anyone looking to enjoy good food in a beautiful setting—and that quintessential English pub vibe. Helmed by the talented team of Phil Winser, Olivier van Themsche, and James Gummer, their pub revival has been the talk of the town.
Let’s dive into what makes us love the British pub aesthetic!
Notting Hill, London
The Pelican
Located on All Saints Road, The Pelican has been a witness to Notting Hill’s ever-changing landscape. More than just a pub, it’s committed to supporting the community and sustainable practices. Working with local producers like Paddock Farm, the focus is on sustainability and fun. From live music nights to cozy Sunday movies, The Pelican is a true neighborhood staple for food, drink, and general vibe.
Maida Vale, London
The Hero
In Maida Vale, The Hero offers a variety of experiences across its floors. The ground-floor pub serves classic British dishes in a relaxed setting, while The Grill upstairs specializes in open-fire cooking for an elevated dining experience. The Library is all about cocktails and quiet retreats, and the top floor is a private event space. With its welcoming atmosphere, The Hero remains a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Charlbury, Cotswolds
The Bull
Standing on the corner of Sheep Street since the early 1500s, The Bull has long been the heart of Charlbury. While it has seen many changes over the centuries, its charm and character remain. Known as a local pub serving great beer, it also boasts a restaurant focused on open-fire cooking. The Bull offers rooms for a relaxing countryside escape, featuring freestanding baths and super king-sized beds. Just a short walk from Charlbury station, it’s the perfect retreat from city life.
Public House
Discover The Aesthetic
The Aesthetic
Take A Peek Inside
What really stands out is their meticulous restorations.The design ethos, spearheaded by Phil Winser, focuses on stripping back layers to reveal and celebrate each building’s original features. From the light fixtures to the wine glasses and knives, every detail is incredibly refined and thoughtfully designed. Wherever you look there is something interesting to discover.
The aesthetic of these pubs—a seamless blend of historical charm and contemporary design—is a major draw. Featuring Staffordshire tiles, antique pine, and bespoke lighting, these interiors create atmospheres that are both cozy and stylish. This carefully curated aesthetic experience is highly (we hate to say it but) Instagrammable, but in a non-cheesy way.
"As we found and restored unique pieces, we added character to each, enriching their individual stories."
Meet the hosts
Phil Winser, James Gummer & Olivier von Themsche
Phil Winser and James Gummer have long been celebrated for their knack for creating dining hotspots that blend style, quality, and cool. Winser first made waves with The Fat Radish in New York City, a Lower East Side gem known for its farm-to-table ethos and chic, rustic vibe. This success was followed by equally lauded ventures like The Leadbelly and The East Pole. With a proven track record of transforming spaces into beloved destinations, it's no wonder there's a buzz of anticipation surrounding their latest projects.
As these spaces continue to trend, they bring a fresh take on the British original. They offer an alternative while staying loyal to important values by creating community-focused environments anchored in their surroundings.
Tips from the hosts
What is your philosophy When it comes to Hospitality?
Our approach to hospitality is about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and at ease, whether you're stopping by for a quick drink, a family meal, or staying overnight in one of our rooms. We care deeply about every detail, from the design of the space to the food we serve. It's about making sure each person who walks in leaves having had the best possible experience, whether that comes from the food, the atmosphere, or the people. The pub is a local institution, and we try to be a natural part of the community, offering something familiar yet special to everyone who visits.
What makes a really good pub?
A good pub is all about community and balance. It should be a place that’s welcoming to everyone - from families to groups of friends, from the regulars who stop by every day to visitors from out of town. A pub needs to offer great food and drink, but it also needs to have that social aspect where people can come, stand at the bar, and have a conversation with whoever is there. It’s a place where people can connect, unwind, and feel like they’re a part of something bigger. The history and character of the building also play a role, and we love restoring old pubs to their original charm.
Is there a specific item you love in the Public House Collection?
If we had to choose one thing, it would be the ceramic range, especially the tea and coffee mugs, jam jars, and candle holders. What makes them special is that all our pottery is custom-made by London-based potter Lily. Her craftsmanship is inspired by British studio ceramics, focusing on creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also understated, durable, and thoughtfully designed.