The Old Fountain’s name derives from it being on the site of a medicinal spring. Nowadays, it’s a real ale stronghold, earning itself the coveted title of East London and City 2011 Pub of the Year

The Venue
The Old Fountain is close to both Old Street station and Moorfields Eye Hospital. It’s hidden away and inconspicuous with entrances on both Baldwin Street and Peerless Street. The pub is Tardis-like, being much bigger inside than its exterior suggests, and has two carpeted bars on split levels. There are many tables and chairs and soft benches around the walls. Among the decorations are interesting Regency posters detailing the operations of the former Peerless Pond (London’s first ever public baths which was located nearby). A new feature at the pub is a roof terrace furnished with stools and umbrellas. This is certain to be highly popular in the summer.

The Atmosphere
The managers are so well-known and welcoming that the Old Fountain has a solid, and growing, core of regulars from local offices and Moorfields Eye Hospital. They’re joined by hospital visitors and real ale aficionados. Since real ale is the keynote, the prevailing ambience is contented and civilised with many an appreciative comment or gurgle from drinkers. These are of all age groups and the owners report a noticeable recent increase among younger people, especially females.

The Food
Traditional pub food is prepared in-house and is available from 12-2.30pm. The doorstep-wedge sandwiches are a big seller and salt beef is the favourite filling. Sandwiches are often eaten with a specialty soup which can be pea and ham, chilli chicken, butternut squash or broccoli and stilton, among the many different kinds that change daily. The more substantial specials also rotate and can feature shepherd’s pie, sausage and mash, a pie or curries. From 5-10pm bar snacks are on offer. A big seller is a Neal’s Yard cheddar cheese board accompanied by gherkins and chutneys.

The Drink
Listing the real ales is an impossibility. They change constantly and people come in especially in order to savour something different. With eight handpumps there’s invariably something new. Fuller’s London Pride is the house bitter but other suppliers include Crouch Vale, Dark Star and Moorhouse’s. Of late, the new London microbreweries have been selected and there’s a good chance of finding a Brodie’s, an East London Brewery, a Redemption or a Twickenham. A dark beer is always offered and sometimes there are two. It could be Red Squirrel mild, Kent porter or Saltaire stout. The managers’ pride in their cellarmanship is such that every pint is always superlative.

The bottled beer list is equally attractive. London Bridge’s award-winning Kernel has 13 stocked from tangy IPA to malt-rich Imperial Stout. Among the more exotic ones are Belgians such as Chouffe and Floris and the exceptional Mikkeller from Denmark.

Cider is available with one draught such as Thatcher’s Cheddar Valley and usually another on keg. Lager isn’t neglected with six on tap including Peroni, Pilsner Urquell and a German Krombacher Pilsner. Wines, spirits and liqueurs are standard but sufficient for the demand.

The Last Word
The Old Fountain is a hidden gem but its qualities make it a burnished and shining star. A drinking experience with few equals in London, it’s no wonder that it’s a CAMRA Pub of the Year.

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