A Brentford pub where the landscape artist J. M. W. Turner once lived and received his first commission has been honoured with a blue plaque, unveiled 250 years after his birth.
The Weir Pub has received a boost in visitors after their unveiling ceremony on 4 September, which was attended by guests including the Mayor of Brentford.
Turner, who features on the £20 note and is considered one of Britain’s most influential painters, lived and worked across the Thames valley in South West London. He lived at Syon Ferry House in Isleworth and Sandycombe lodge in Twickenham, and painted extensively along the river.
Manager Erica Brennan said: “It took us a really long time to get this plaque, so it was such a relief when it finally arrived. It was quite a difficult process, but definitely worth the wait.
“Since we got the plaque, we’ve had so many more visitors. A lot of walking groups now feature us on their tours, and people stop outside to take a picture – then they come in for a pint or a meal. It’s been really good for business.”
Bartender Yarna, who asked that her surname not be included, said: “I didn’t actually know about the pub’s history before I worked here. Then they told me Turner lived here, and that he even slept in the cellar. I thought, ‘Poor Turner!’, because it’s quite a sad little room we just use to store kegs.
The Twickenham Museum is currently hosting an exhibition on Turner’s life and his strong links to the area.
Trustee Ricky Pound said: “We wanted to highlight just how much Twickenham and the surrounding areas influenced Turner’s art. I don’t think people realise the depth of his local connections.”
Meanwhile, Tate Britain is marking the anniversary with Turner 250, a year-long programme of exhibitions and events dedicated to the painter’s legacy.
