William Nicholson (1824-1909) distiller, politican, cricket player, benefactor This alehouse is part of the Nicholson's heritage collection. They’re all different, yet they all owe something to the man who founded them. William Nicholson was a victorian all-rounder a businessman, MP, and sporting hero he played first-class cricket, ran the family's distilling business, and financed Lord's cricket ground and its famous pavilion. In 1 873. William revitalised a collection of characterful alehouses, each one an architectural delight with a strong sense of place and individuality William added craftsmanship - marble, tiling, vibrant leaded windows - and his larger-than-life personality William's influence is lasting. His alehouses are still brimming with warmth, tradition, and timeless hospitality