the bell pub london: a historic local gem with lively vibes and unique charm.

Name: The Bell
Address: 50 Middlesex St, London E1 7EX, UK, London, E1 7EX, GB
Telephone: 020 7247 3459
Price range: $$

Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant E1 district, The Bell stands proudly at 50 Middlesex Street as a quintessential Victorian pub that marries history with a lively local atmosphere. Dating back to at least 1709, this traditional pub enchants visitors with its distinctive dark floorboards and dado panelling, creating an inviting ambience that speaks to both heritage and warmth.

a truly local pub experience with eclectic charm

Step inside The Bell and you’ll instantly notice the quirky decor that sets it apart — from vintage taxidermy to intriguing street art and walls adorned with posters that tell stories of decades past. The bar exudes a "local" feel cherished by regulars and newcomers alike. The basement games room offers a playful retreat featuring pool and table football, with free games on Monday and Tuesday evenings, making it a fantastic spot to unwind and socialize.

drinks and atmosphere: crafted to delight

The Bell is renowned for its excellent selection of craft beers and traditional cask ales, including popular picks like Ghost Ship. While it doesn’t serve food, patrons are welcomed to bring in delicious eats from nearby Petticoat Lane Market or Brick Lane, enhancing the community vibe. Friendly staff bring spirited energy to the bar, offering knowledgeable service and quirky shots that add an element of surprise to your visit. The pub’s clean facilities and relaxed, dog-friendly policy ensure everyone feels at home.

What are the opening hours of The Bell? The Bell operates Monday to Wednesday from 4 pm to 11 pm, Thursday and Friday from 12 pm to 12 am, and is closed on weekends.
Is The Bell accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, The Bell is wheelchair accessible, including the games room and function room.
Can I bring my own food to The Bell? Yes, The Bell allows patrons to bring their own food from local markets, such as Petticoat Lane Market.
Does The Bell host live music events? Yes, The Bell hosts live music events, including Northern Soul nights and Brit-Pop Band evenings.
Is there a dress code at The Bell? No, The Bell has a casual dress code and welcomes all patrons.

community sentiment and what to expect

The Bell enjoys a mixed but generally positive reputation among locals and visitors. Many praise its friendly staff, authentic ambiance, and the unique appeal of its games room and quirky decor. Some reviews note that the pub can get busy in the afternoons and evenings, adding to the vibrant feel. While a few patrons have mentioned occasional issues with service or cleanliness, the overall sentiment highlights The Bell as a welcoming neighborhood spot where you can enjoy great beer, good company, and a touch of East London charm.

l'histoire fascinante de the bell à londres

Plongez dans le passé riche et coloré de The Bell, un pub emblématique de Londres, qui incarne à la fois l'histoire victorienne et l'évolution culturelle du quartier de Middlesex Street.

Situé au 50 Middlesex Street, The Bell est une véritable icône locale dont l'histoire remonte à plus de trois siècles. Son premier enregistrement date de 1709, lorsqu'il était situé à l'angle sud de Black Bell Alley, attirant les habitants et les voyageurs avec son ambiance chaleureuse et son histoire riche.

En 1883, en réponse à l'expansion de Middlesex Street, le pub fut entièrement reconstruit dans un style Queen Anne, donnant à l'établissement un cachet victorien authentique qui perdure encore aujourd'hui. Ce renouveau architectural a permis à The Bell de continuer à servir de point de rassemblement pour la communauté locale au fil des décennies.

Un changement notable eut lieu en 1997, lorsque le pub fut acquis par Thorley Taverns et rebaptisé le Market Trader, marquant une nouvelle ère pour l'établissement. Cependant, fidèle à ses racines, le pub retrouva son nom d'origine, The Bell, en 2010, conservant ainsi son identité historique tout en s'adaptant aux goûts modernes.

The Bell at a glance

Located at 50 Middlesex St, London, The Bell is a traditional pub that captures the essence of British culture. With its rich history and eclectic decor, it offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for both locals and visitors. The pub features a games room and a selection of cask ales, making it a great spot for casual gatherings.

Pros

Eclectic decor that adds charm.
Games room with pool and darts.
Private hire options available.
Traditional British pub fare with a Thai twist.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Vibrant atmosphere ideal for socializing.

Cons

Some patrons have reported issues with service and cleanliness.
Limited opening hours on weekends.
Can get noisy when busy.
Potential for theft outside the pub.

Ideal for

The Bell is ideal for casual meet-ups, after-work drinks, and social gatherings with friends. Its friendly atmosphere makes it a great choice for those looking to unwind.

Things to know before visiting

Reservations are recommended for larger groups.
Check for special events or promotions.
Be aware of potential noise during peak hours.

Overall impression

The Bell stands out as a quintessential London pub, blending traditional charm with a lively atmosphere. While it has its drawbacks, such as occasional service issues and noise, the welcoming vibe and unique offerings make it a worthwhile visit for anyone in the area.

4.2