A fresh establishment has launched where a famed Stoke Newington Irish venue once stood – though this newcomer will not be pouring the famous dark stout.
The Wollstonecraft has taken over the premises previously occupied by Ryan’s, which shut its doors on the final night of the year following three decades and two years of trading, signing off with the message that it had been a blast.
Nick Bailey, who simultaneously operates The Robin Ale and Cider House in Crouch Hill, has introduced a tavern and restaurant honouring celebrated feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, who made her home in Newington Green during the 1780s.
The former Ryan’s establishment on Church Street in Stoke Newington boasted a concealed courtyard garden, Gaelic lessons, performances – and inevitably, the distinctive Irish stout.
Writing on the social media platform earlier this week, Mr Bailey announced that they were officially open and invited dog owners to bring their pets. He noted that the kitchen and dining room would be launching by the end of August. He explained that Guinness would not be available, as the establishment had chosen to focus on real ale instead. He clarified that this was not a criticism of Guinness itself, simply a deliberate preference. He reassured customers that plenty of dark beers would be available from breweries such as Kernel, Anspach & Hobday, Verdant, and Bristol Beer Factory.
The structure and adjacent converted 19th-century textile merchant’s premises hold Grade II heritage protection, while previous incarnations have included La Manch and the Vestry.
Social media posts have showcased the venue’s interior featuring a sleek timber counter with stone-effect detailing, floorboards throughout, and mounted pieces celebrating the author of A Vindication of the Rights of Women, who established an academy for young women in Newington Green.
An exclusive ceramic mural of Mary, commissioned by The Wollstonecraft, also features prominently.
In May, Mr Bailey stated he felt proud to serve as steward of the former Irish pub and expressed ambition for the new venture to prove worthy of carrying Mary’s name.
He explained that he was pleased to be the new custodian of what was once Ryan’s bar. He described himself as a custodian because the pub existed before his time and, if handled correctly, it would continue as a pub long after both his and his critics’ time had passed. He emphasised that preservation and continuity were paramount.
He acknowledged these were challenging circumstances for taverns, given escalating utility expenses and similar concerns, matters that dominate conversation across the sector.
Yet he remarked that they considered themselves fortunate, considering what an honour it is to pursue this as a profession.