Established in the 13th Century, The White Hart Inn on Drury Lane claims to be London’s oldest pub. Historical records show its first license was granted as early as 1216, and its place in the capital’s history makes it a hit with tourists.
The White Hart pub has stood proudly on the corner of Drury Lane and High Holborn for centuries. Famous patrons to walk through the doors have included notorious thieves, Jack Sheppard and Richard (Dick) Turpin. In fact, Turpin even came in for a pint prior to his hanging in 1739.
The Old Bailey archives reveal this corner to be the first and oldest licensed premise in London, dating back to 1216. ‘The Whyte Hart Public House’ has been the name of pubs on this site since the 15th century and was a legendary watering hole for London’s notorious highwaymen and rogues.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Drury lane was known as a fashionable street, with residents including the likes of The Marquess of Argyll, Oliver Cromwell and Nell Gwynne.
However, in the 18th Century, Drury Lane became one of the worst slums in London, notable for its brawls, drunkenness, prostitutes, and gin palaces. Legend has it that regular customers of The White Hart included notorious thieves, Jack Sheppard and Richard (Dick) Turpin. Turpin even came in for a pint prior to his hanging in 1739. Condemned men habitually stopped in for a last drink and women’s comfort before facing the hangman’s noose.
Now, in the 21st century, the White Hart is a family owned pub, by The Morton Scott Pub Company. We took ownership of this beautiful and charming pub in 2003 and it now forms our family of three public houses in the Covent Garden area. As a company, we are passionate about keeping the spirit of London pubs alive. We believe in great beer, great service and good honest food.
We hope you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere this historic pub has to offer.
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I’ve never eaten here and it’s on my to do list. However I occasionally drink here Saturday evenings as it’s open late and it’s one of the few places I can get served quickly due to plenty of efficient bar staff. I also visited here New Year’s Eve which was a delight! Music was slightly on the low level side for dancing, however it was refreshing to be able to chat easily and the atmosphere was very good.
Outside the pub looked warm and inviting.. Great vibe inside.. Enjoyed a lovely warm mulled wine... Staff were friendly and efficient.... Great pub... 👌
Went here for Sunday roast with zero expectations and was blown away. Incredible food and quick, attentive service. While full, the venue felt spacious. Service was fast. Drinks were great. And the food elevator was fun to watch.
Absolute quiant pub in the heart of Covent garden. Super neat and clean, with fantastic service and very serving personnel. Keep up the good job!
Great food but disappointed by the lack of pub ambience as the owner painted the walls white like snow. I had a meat ale pie and my wife had a parmeggiana, both plates were delicious. One of the first licensed pubs in London, they put in a plate (would it be true?). Worth the visit, I may return some day.
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Opening Times
| Mon | 11:00 – 00:00 |
| Tue | 11:00 – 00:00 |
| Wed | 11:00 – 00:00 |
| Thur | 11:00 – 00:00 |
| Fri | 11:00 – 02:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 – 02:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 – 20:00 |
Sorry, we don't have any menus listed at the moment.
London WC2