Historic Farringdon pub to reopen in February after £1.8m refurb

The Hoop and Grapes in Farringdon, a historic pub near Fleet Street is set to reopen in February following a £1.8m refurbishment by independent brewer and pub operator Shepherd Neame.

The pub, a Grade II-listed building dating back to the early 18th Century, has been closed since 2019 during redevelopment of the surrounding area. Shepherd Neame began restoration work on the site in October.

The five-storey building has been redesigned to offer three separate customer spaces. The ground floor will operate as a traditional pub centred on the original long bar, with doors opening onto a courtyard garden. 

The first floor will provide additional seating and access to a covered, heated terrace, while an upper-floor piano room will be available for private dining and small events.

Built in 1721 on land once used as a burial ground for St Bride’s Church, the pub later became associated with clandestine “Fleet Marriages”, conducted in the area during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. 

Shepherd Neame said the refurbishment includes new signage and restored external detailing reflecting that history.

As part of the works, the kitchen has been relocated from the cellar to the second floor, creating space for additional customer facilities. The project also includes energy-efficient equipment, smart cellar technology and LED lighting, the company said.

The reopened pub will serve a new food menu focused on seasonal produce and shareable dishes, alongside Shepherd Neame beers and lagers, English wines and a cocktail list.

The reopening forms part of Shepherd Neame’s wider investment programme in London pubs, following recent refurbishments at the Tom Cribb and Westminster Arms, as well as the acquisition of the Bishops Finger in Smithfield.

Ryan Torrie, operations manager at Shepherd Neame, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming customers back to the Hoop and Grapes after more than four years. As Farringdon continues its evolution, we have taken care to ensure our transformation celebrates the pub’s unique heritage while offering a refined, contemporary experience.”