The historic Hoop and Grapes is one of the oldest pubs in London – it must be doing something right.

The Venue
The Hoop and Grapes is one of London’s oldest pubs, rumoured to be the oldest timber-framed building in the capital. Built several hundred years ago, parts of the building withstood the Great Fire of London in 1666 and it’s still going strong. There are also rumours of blocked off tunnels in the basement leading to who knows where, and a mysterious communication device behind the bar that was no doubt used to conduct all sorts of nefarious business.

The Atmosphere
The decor - dark wood, lots of red and dark colours - lends a relaxed and laid back atmosphere to the venue. Whilst it’s not exactly posh, it’s definitely a far cry from some of the grottier pubs in the area. The clientele is fairly mixed and includes plenty of locals: media types and East End hipsters share pints alongside City boys and girls and the odd grizzled old man or two who’ve been left over from the neighbourhood’s old school days. The pub is also the end destination of a popular Jack the Ripper tour, so don’t be surprised if a crowd bursts in eager to talk about bloodthirsty murders.

The Drink
The Hoop and Grapes is a Shepheard Neame pub, which beer aficionados will know for their penchant for real ales from the Kent countryside. For those not into the whole warm ale drinking thing, the pub also carries international lagers like Asahi, Holsten and Sam Adams.

The Last Word
With its intimate atmosphere and interesting history, the Hoop and Grapes makes a great pub and a great talking point.

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