The Constitution pub is being transformed

Pancras Way pub The Constitution was always a classic. Whether it be for summertime pint or two on the sun-trap terrace overlooking Regent’s Canal, or a delightfully dark and dingy live gig in the famous Cellar Bar, this was a proper lovely local backstreet boozer.

More than a bit rough around the edges, but loved by all different kinds of people, the sparky atmosphere and wobbly camaraderie encountered on a busy night remain some of my best and fondly cherished – if a little hazy – pub memories.

But all that came abruptly to an end in early 2020, when Young’s Brewery bought the pub, closed it down and announced plans to refurb, then reopen. Reports at the time were inevitably about how incensed many of the regulars were about the sudden change, but then Covid swept into the equation. It’s highly unlikely the pub may have survived without the clout of Young’s behind it, being able to bide their time through a tumultuous four-year period, before finally getting going on bringing the place back to life. 

A thankfully safe custodian of decent boozers, (you’ll know their quality, if perhaps a little countryside luxe for deepest Camden), overhauls of other iconic locals including Parkway’s Spread Eagle and Kentish Town Rd’s Bull & Gate), they could be trusted to resist the pull of luxury flat development in favour of bring back a proper, if posher, pub. 

Indeed, what’s rapidly taking shape is impressive, judging from our little tour of the building this week. And while the dramatic upgrade probably won’t please all the pool table purists, there’s plenty to celebrate about the new era dawning.

Check out some of the ‘then and now’ photos (use the slider to see both views) as the new extension and bar rooms still take shape – you’ll then be able to see the finished product when the pub finally reopens, in Feb 2024.