The pub is named after the Arts & Crafts designer and social reformer who lived by the river nearby in the late nineteenth century. It's a large pub built in former shop premises and on a wartime bomb site. When first opened in 1997, it was branded as a Lloyds No 1 Bar with signature loud music and video screens. Subsequently it was changed to become a standard Wetherspoon and just one screen remains, now devoted to news. Being close to both of Hammersmith's underground stations, just across the square from its Lyric Theatre and not far from the Apollo music venue, the pub can be quite busy, but, being spacious, never seems too full.

The interior is 'L'-shaped, with entrances on King Street and on the pedestrianised Lyric Square, where there is a good sized terrace (half of which is available for smokers), and features two raised seating areas with the bar in between. Walls are decorated, in typical Wetherspoon style, with illustrations of local history.

Up to seven changing ales are chosen according to the demand of the pub's many regulars and usually include at least one dark beer and often several from local breweries. The standard Wetherspoon food offerings are available until 11pm each evening.

Note that under the terms of the premises licence, although open earlier for breakfast, alcoholic drinks may not be sold until 9am.

The pub has been recognised by the local council and Hammersmith BID as a successful ‘best practice’ venue for the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme, enabling those who feel vulnerable in pubs and clubs to discreetly approach staff and ask for assistance.