A spectacular transformation of Shepherd Neame’s historic Farringdon, London, pub, The Hoop & Grapes, has been officially celebrated.
The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Very Rev Andrew Tremlett, pulls the first pint at the re-opened pub, watched by Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame
The brewing and pub company has invested £1.8 million in restoring the grade II-listed landmark, which had been closed since 2020 during redevelopment of the surrounding area.
It now offers three distinct experiences, with the ground floor retaining the character of a classic London pub, opening on to a courtyard terrace.
Upstairs, customers can unwind in the relaxed first-floor Terrace Bar, or retreat to the intimate Parson’s Parlour at the top of the building, complete with a self-playing piano, darts board, and games table.
Proceedings began with a quirky test of the Shepherd Neame beer on offer at the pub, watched over by chief executive Jonathan Neame and Representative Lord Mayor, Alderman Keaveny, Alderman for the ward of Farringdon Within.
Ale conners Jon Averns and Lucy Beacon (above) conducted a traditional ceremony, which involves sitting in a puddle of ale (in this case, Spitfire Amber Ale) on a wooden stool for three minutes in leather breeches, to test its quality. Luckily, it passed the test and was declared to be of fine quality, taste, and strength!
Jonathan then addressed the assembled guests, speaking with pride about the restoration of the pub. It dates back to 1721 and stands on land which was once part of St Bride’s Church burial ground, close to Fleet Street.
“What we have done here is to bring out the fantastic character of this historic building,” he said. “Its original features have been carefully restored, with traditional craftsmanship including a hand-painted ceiling mural and handcrafted stained glass.
“The Hoop and Grapes is an iconic London landmark, and our aim with this investment is to ensure it will thrive for years to come.”
Noting its links to illicit ‘Fleet marriages’ associated with nearby Fleet Prison, he added: “This is the Gretna Green of the City if you like!”
The first official pint was pulled by The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Very Rev Andrew Tremlett, who blessed the pub with a prayer written by St Bridget of Kildare, known in English as St Bride.
He said: “This historic pub, like St Paul’s Cathedral, has remained an enduring presence in the life of the City of London for centuries, welcoming generations of Londoners and visitors alike. I’m delighted to celebrate a landmark that continues to serve and strengthen our community, and to pull its first pint!”
Jonathan Neame presented a donation of £1,000 to Kali Hamerton-Stove, co-founder of The Glasshouse, a charitable organisation based in Kent which supports female ex-offenders with horticultural education and employment.
