Fleet Street, once the beating heart of London’s newspaper industry, still whispers tales of ink-stained fingers and the clinking of glasses in its historic pubs. Just a stone’s throw from the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, this thoroughfare, once famously known as the “Street of Shame”, boasts a collection of remarkable hostelries. These pubs served as havens for thirsty printers and tenacious journalists well into the 1980s, and continue to offer a taste of authentic London history.
Among these venerable establishments, The Tipperary stands out. Claiming to be London’s oldest Irish pub and the first to pour a pint of Guinness in the city, its history is as rich and debated as the brews it serves. While the exact accuracy of its claims might be contested, its enduring charm as a Fleet Street Pub is undeniable. Originally named the Boars Head, The Tipperary was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. Though it has seen alterations over the centuries, it remains a quintessential Fleet Street drinking den.
Stepping inside The Tipperary is like stepping back in time. For those seeking an escape from the modern, gastronomy-focused pubs that are increasingly common in London, Fleet Street pubs, like The Tipperary, offer a refreshing alternative. Here, the focus remains firmly on the drink, maintaining the tradition of the classic “wet-led boozer”. For centuries, beyond the journalists, legal professionals from the nearby Courts of Justice and Old Bailey have also frequented these establishments. This rich history permeates the very walls of these taverns, offering a palpable sense of historic London to every visitor.
The interior of The Tipperary is designed for convivial drinking. You’ll often find patrons standing shoulder-to-shoulder, enjoying their pints amidst the warm ambiance of wood-panelled walls and beautifully etched mirrors. This creates an atmosphere that is both traditional and informal, a genuine Irish pub experience far removed from the manufactured feel of chain establishments. While The Tipperary does offer wallet-friendly food upstairs, with all dishes priced at £9 or less, the true gem for many pub enthusiasts is the exquisite shamrock mosaic, a testament to its Irish heritage.
Adding to its unique character are charmingly wonky floors and a traditional dumb waiter that services the upstairs area, features increasingly rare in London pubs. The Tipperary is always lively, buzzing with a diverse crowd of tourists, suited city workers, and the vibrant pulse of London life. This classic Fleet Street pub is a truly worthwhile destination, a proper central London boozer that merits a journey to experience its authentic atmosphere and historic charm.
