Spotlight on… Starting Out
Liz told us that her life before The Hackney Carriage was a calm, organised, normal family life. Having visited a micropub, she spotted the opportunity to offer others a safe place to catch up with a friend for a drink. As Liz had been an estate agent for 18 years, she knew how important the location was, so she did some demographic research before settling on Sidcup.
Deciding on a name was easier – Liz’s husband, Mark, is a black cab driver, so The Hackney Carriage Micro Pub was born.
Liz said there were plenty of challenges in setting up: at first, the locals didn’t understand the micropub concept, and it took them a while to realise that Liz was trying to create a quieter, more inclusive environment than they might find in a larger venue.
Liz also encountered sexism along the way, telling us, “People automatically assume that it’s my husband’s business, so they ask to deal with him.” The new venture also turned her week on its head: “You can’t just meet friends at the weekend, as this is now the busiest part of the week!”
Spotlight on… Community
On the micropub’s success, Liz said, “I truly believe that the success of the pub is the community. My husband and I are always around to meet customers and interact with them.” Liz even occasionally drives a customer or two home. “We have one customer who is elderly and gets the bus to us when he can, and I often will take him home. We appreciate everyone, as this is a community pub and we support each other.” The Hackney Carriage’s regulars describe the pub as a community hub; many have found new friendships and met neighbours who they never knew before.
Liz is proud that the pub is there for the community, no matter where they are in life. They have welcomed many newborn babies since opening, and new puppies get a treat on their first visit. Liz said, “I recently agreed to close for our first wedding, as they are regulars and have asked to hold their reception here, which is an honour.” The pub has also opened up for local community network and workshop events and, sadly, also hosted family funerals for regulars.
Spotlight on… Beer
The micropub is a real ale haven, particularly since bar manager Ben is a strong beer connoisseur. This led to the team creating “Strong Beer Thursday”, which has been very popular with customers.
The Hackney Carriage has stocked most of Beerblefish’s beers in the three years since it opened. Liz said, “They are always of the best quality, and we have also asked them to do a house bitter, which our customers love!”
Spotlight on… Romance
As it’s Valentine’s weekend, Glenn asked Liz whether romance had been in the air at The Hackney Carriage. She said, “Over the last three and a half years we have had one couple meet and move in together. Now I’m waiting for the wedding so I can buy my Cilla hat!”
Spotlight on… Success
Liz has a few words of wisdom for anyone thinking about starting a micropub: “It may look fun but it’s not easy; a busy micropub consumes most of your time and energy. I truly believe my success is due to the time and devotion I invest in my community hub/pub.”
Many thanks to Liz for taking time out of her busy day to talk to us!
