HERITAGE
In the mid-1890s, Frank Crocker discovered that the new terminus of the Great Central Railway was about to pop up in St. John’s Wood. Being an entrepreneurial guy, he decided to build a new hotel that would capitalise on the increase in traffic.
No expense was spared. Wooden panelling, gamboling cherub statues, soaring pillars and 50 kinds of marble went into what became the Crown Hotel, and so did several bars, one of which was exclusively for women!
Unfortunately, the railway route was changed and the hotel wasn’t quite as successful as Frank thought it would be.
TRADITION
The hotel changed its name to Crocker’s Folly in 1987. In 2004, the pub was placed on the English Heritage Buildings ‘At Risk’ Register and the future looked bleak until it was purchased once again, by The Maroush Group.
‘Now we’re proud to show off the Victorian design in our beautiful, Grade II listed building’. Our special saloon bar still features the same 50 kinds of marble, plus Romanesque columns and carved mahogany. The Lord’s Room (or dining area) even has the original high ceilings, grand fireplace and spectacular crystal chandelier!
We can’t wait for you see the way this space has been transformed into the Crocker’s Folly we love today! We’re sure Frank Crocker would be proud.
MAROUF ABOUZAKI
A dedicated chef, father and grandfather, it was love at first sight, not only when he saw the children, but when he saw the building we call Crocker’s Folly. He snapped it up with grands plans to serve his creations in the kitchen.
Marouf loves nothing more than cooking great food, much of which is inspired by his Lebanese roots. You can still try many excellent Lebanese wines at Crocker’s Folly, and experience the finest, freshest dishes from the Levan in all three dining rooms.
This ambitious man has a lot of hopes and dreams for Crocker’s Folly, now a bustling family-run affair.
If you see him greeting the customers, don’t forget to say hello!
#WEARECROCKERSFOLLY
50 kinds of marble went into the original room, hence the name of our spectacular dining room/saloon bar.
The Marble Room is jam-packed with original Victorian features and often makes jaws drop.
The crackling fireplace makes a welcome respite from the cold winter weather, while the gorgeous glasswork lets in the summer sun.
You won’t miss the marble bar
– it’s a central feature –
and don’t forget to look up at the intricately decorated ceiling.
Wondering about our unique tables and chairs?
We sourced them from Italy.
Our beautiful Lord’s Dining Room is the perfect place for a private event and is often abuzz with the sounds of clanging cutlery and happy laughter.
You and your guests will be transported back in time and it will be easy to imagine this room the way it used to be, as part of a former gin palace.
Named after the nearby Lord’s Cricket Ground, this stunningly regal space can be rented out for your birthday, wedding… baby shower?
Whatever you like, we’ll be on hand to help you celebrate in the glimmer of our sparkling chandelier and original Victorian Bay windows.
The Lord’s Dining Room can seat up to 50 people, or host 100 standing.
With room for up to 30 people,
you can also host a private event on our
atmospheric outdoor terrace.
With the stars or the warm summer sun above you,
eat, drink or even enjoy our cigar, brandy and whiskey pairing menu,
surrounded by lush green trees and pretty flowers.
If it’s chilly out, don’t worry.
We have a heated awning at the ready.
For your special occasion/private event,
we’ll be happy to arrange a special set menu, catering to all tastes.
Your party can also choose from the à la carte dishes on our Lebanese menu.
We use only the best locally sourced ingredients, so you know you’re in good hands.
Discover what else we can do to boost your special occasion at Crocker’s Folly.