Old Bell

The Old Bell is a Grade II listed pub located at a prominent corner on Fleet Street, featuring a central circular bar and a large fireplace within its historic interior. The pub remains a traditional watering hole with period details that reflect its age.

The building was constructed in 1678 by Sir Christopher Wren as lodging for stonemasons working on the reconstruction of St Bride's Church following the Great Fire. It stands as a remnant of London's post-fire rebuilding period.

It served as a meeting place for journalists working nearby during the golden age of Fleet Street's newspaper industry. The pub became woven into the daily lives of writers and reporters who stopped by between shifts.

The pub is open most days of the week with food service available from lunchtime onward. It operates under Nicholson Brewery management and offers comfortable seating areas for visitors.

A barmaid discovered classified documents about a code-breaking facility left behind in 1951 by a journalist. The incident prompted government intervention at the premises.

Location: City of London

Address: 95 Fleet Street, London, EC4Y 1DH

Website: http://nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/london/theoldbelltavernfleetstreetlondon

GPS coordinates: 51.51403,-0.10523

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03