The Old Bell Tavern Pub in Fleet

95 Fleet St, Greater, London EC4Y 1DH

About This Pub

Ah, The Old Bell Tavern, what a treat it is! Tucked away on Fleet Street, this place has that proper old-school charm with its dark wood interiors and tales of Sir Christopher Wren's masons and even a nod to Sweeney Todd—it's got history in spades, which really makes you feel like you're part of something special. I love how they've nailed the classics: a cracking range of beers and spirits that keeps things exciting, and the food doesn't disappoint either, with hearty pies and chips that are just the thing for warming up on a brisk London day. The staff are always up for a chat, which adds to the friendly buzz, and it's dead easy to pop in after wandering around the City. That said, it does fill up quickly sometimes, especially if a tour group swings by, so you might have to jostle for a table or deal with a bit of queueing at the bar. And while the dim lighting gives it that intimate feel, it could be a tad too moody for some. Overall, it's a solid spot for us pub enthusiasts—go for the atmosphere and stay for the pints, but keep an eye on the crowds if you're after a peaceful evening.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The historic atmosphere is absolutely charming, with its 300-year-old roots tied to Sir Christopher Wren and Fleet Street's printing history—it's like stepping back in time for a pint.
They've got a brilliant selection of beers, ciders, gins, and whiskies, including standout craft options like Meantime London Lager and the City of London Gin, which is right across the road.
The food is spot on for a classic pub—think unbeatable pies, chunky chips, and fish and chips that hit the spot, especially on a chilly day.
Service is friendly and efficient, even when it gets busy, and there's often a quiet corner to settle into for a relaxed chat.
It's conveniently located in the heart of the City, making it perfect for a quick stop after exploring St Paul's or joining a walking tour.

Cons

It can get quite crowded, especially with walking tours popping in, which might make it a bit tricky to find a seat during peak times.
Some of the facilities, like the hand dryers in the loos, could do with a bit more attention to keep everything in top shape.
The lighting is on the dim side, which adds to the cosy vibe but might not suit everyone if you're after a brighter spot for reading the menu.

Contact Information

95 Fleet St, Greater, London EC4Y 1DH

+442075830216

Pub

Opens at 12:00

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)	12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	12:00 - 23:00
Thursday	11:30 - 23:00
Friday	11:30 - 23:00
Saturday	12:00 - 21:00
Sunday	12:00 - 18:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Our second Nicholson pub of the day - we stopped off for a cheeky beer waiting for friends. Rewarded with another dark wood, low lit old establishment; a large selection of beers on tap, a quiet atmosphere. Another island of sanity in the City! Random thought: our table had a glassed top - were there really Frosties and Cocoa pops inside?

Greyness UK

Historic pub well over 300 years old. Good selection of beers and ciders plus a food offering too. More than one walking tour came in while I was there so became quite busy but more than one person behind the bar so no long waits. Loos upstairs which were clean but one of the two hand dryers was kaput and some taps did not work, otherwise this pub would have got five stars

Robert Parkin

Lovely, historic pub conveniently located near St. Paul's. I visited twice in a week to enjoy dinner (fish & chips) and a few pints. Service was friendly and, even though it was busy, a quiet place in the corner always seemed available.

Jason Morgan

A vintage Fleet Street London public house with large dimpled glass frontage & an open lobby to the main door. A broad drinking hall within feels intimate but spacious with a large central square bar sitting across the space. There's a good selection of draught beers & a friendly team. Fairy lights string between bar & perimeter to soften the mood under a decoratively patterned, heavily overpainted ceiling paper. Plenty of comfy, new low seating with some studded leather benches & a signature arm chair. Double doors at the back lead to a secluded alley for outer drinking. Heritage features are retained from the ornarely topped back bar, Georgian wood surround fireplace & original hard wood bar. Elegant local area, vintage artwork dress the walls alongside smart features like the gilt edged mirror. Glass droplet chandeliers & beautiful flower bud glass wall lamps fit the quality, preserved heritage that Nicholson's do very well in charming pubs like this historic home of local London pub style.

Alex Conkleton

I saw the menu on the wall as I passed by The Old Bell Tavern during an audio tour I was taking of The Old City. I immediately decided that I would come back for their Chunky Chips.. So glad I did. By that time I was chilled to the bone. What a wonderful place to warm up with comfort food and a pint. The Chunky Chips topped with beef brisket and cheddar cheese hit the spot. I'm from Texas and the brisket was as good as any I have ever experienced! Chips were perfectly prepared. Service was great and I wish I could give 7 stars for atmosphere--made me feel like I had been transported back in time.

Cathy Fulton