Overview
The Old Bank of England is where grandeur and British pub culture meet. Set in a lavish former Bank of England building on Fleet Street, this extraordinary pub is known not just for its drinks and food, but for its astonishing interiors — among the most elegant of any public house in London.
The building operated as a bank from 1888 to 1975 before being transformed into a pub by Fuller’s. The design retains the original opulence: ornate plasterwork, high gilded ceilings, Corinthian columns, and a dramatic glass cupola ceiling that bathes the main bar in natural light. Huge windows and period chandeliers enhance the sense of scale, making it a favourite for visitors, photographers, and history lovers alike.
On the drinks side, expect a classic lineup of Fuller’s cask ales, seasonal brews, craft lagers, premium wines, and an impressive selection of gins and whiskies. Food-wise, the kitchen serves up hearty British fare, from fish and chips and pies to lighter seasonal salads and sharing boards. There’s also an excellent Sunday roast offering.
Adding to the intrigue, legend has it the site once sat above Sweeney Todd’s barbershop — where the fictional Demon Barber dispatched unlucky customers. Whether or not that’s true, the pub certainly delivers theatrical flair and a touch of the gothic beneath its grandeur.
Popular with lawyers, journalists, tourists, and theatre-goers, The Old Bank of England is a must-visit Fleet Street institution — ideal for lunch, a pint with friends, or simply soaking in one of London’s most dramatic pub settings.
Last update April 2024
