I’m sure you’re all well aware by now that London is home to some really old pubs. Like, reaaally old. Our capital city is a treasure trove full of well-trodden watering holes. And the one I plan on waxing lyrical about for the next few moments can be found over in Aldgate in the form of a Grade II listed building that leans about 18 inches to one side (but more on that later). The Hoop and Grapes dates all the way back to 1593, and is filled to the brim with booze and backstories. So, make yourselves comfy, folks, and allow me to tell you all about it.
The Hoop and Grapes
Perched directly opposite Aldgate station, the Hoop and Grapes is a timber-framed tavern that has truly stood the test of time. The building was originally constructed as a private house, but a pub has perched on the site since the 17th century. The watering hole has boasted a fair few titles in its time, initially being named the Castle, before becoming the Angel & Crown, the Christopher Hills, and then eventually Hops and Grapes (as a nod towards what you could sip on inside). It wasn’t until the 1920s when the boozer was named the Hoop and Grapes – but long before that, the tavern had a rather close dance with death.
In 1666, the Great Fire of London broke out, destroying a big old chunk of the City of London. Very few timber-framed buildings survived to tell the tale, but somehow the Hoop and Grapes did. The fire supposedly stopped just 50 yards aways from the pub’s entrance, making the fact that it’s still standing to this very day – quite frankly – miraculous.
Over the years, the pub has tilted around 18 inches to one side. The somewhat wonky pub is essentially London’s answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, so be sure to hold onto your pint whilst you’re in there. With its sash windows, low ceilings, dark beams, and wood paneling; entering the Hoop and Grapes is like stepping back in time. It’s bursting at the seams with character and cosiness, serving up a whole host of beer, wine, and pub grub. Most certainly one to add to the must-visit list.
📍You’ll find the Hoop and Grapes at 47 Aldgate High Street, EC3N 1AL.
