Following its acquisition by Laine's (and then their acquisition) the pub closed briefly and re-opened as Owl & Hitchhiker. The second part of the latest name comes from the fact that author Douglas Adams lived nearby. The first is in recognition of Edward Lear, see below. A mixture of science (!) and nonsense. There is also a very large tree internal to the pub! The pub has very impressive interior. Internal decoration might best be summarised as eclectic.

It was formerly the Half Moon. Then it re-opened 2001 as 'The Quays'. It was bought by the group behind Prince Albert NW1, Three Compasses N8 and Adam & Eve NW7 and the name changed to Edward Lear who was an English artist, illustrator, musician, author and poet, born just around the corner in 1812. In Dec 2017, owner the Distinct Group was acquired by Laine's.

Pre-covid there were 4 handpumps providing three cask beers, now there is just the one and a cider, just two Westons (non-real) ciders. Loads of craft keg - at least 6 pales/IPAs.