One of London's oldest pubs is set to pour pints once again, marking the end of its temporary life as a building site office. The Hoop & Grapes on Farringdon Street, a Grade II-listed establishment, will reopen its doors in February 2026 following an extensive £1.8 million transformation.
From Office Space to Pub Place
The historic five-storey building, which dates back to around 1720, was closed to the public in 2021. During the ongoing development of the surrounding Stonecutter Court, it served as administrative and construction space. Its owner, the Kent-based brewer Shepherd Neame, has now completed a three-month restoration project designed to honour the site's "rich history" while giving it a contemporary upgrade.
Operations Manager Ryan Torrie expressed the team's excitement: "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."
A Pub with a Colourful Past
The building's history is as rich as a stout. Originally built for a wine merchant, it was converted into a public house around 1832 and earned its Grade II listed status in 1991. It also holds a more notorious chapter in its past, having been a venue for clandestine 'Fleet marriages' – illicit ceremonies linked to the nearby Fleet Prison.
In a nod to this colourful history, a swing sign depicting a wedding scene will hang outside the newly restored pub, a detail confirmed by Shepherd Neame.
Three Distinct Experiences Await
The £1.8 million makeover promises more than just a fresh coat of paint. Patrons can look forward to three distinct areas within the revamped venue:
- A courtyard garden for al fresco socialising.
- A covered, heated terrace for year-round comfort.
- A dedicated piano room for more intimate gatherings.
The culinary offering will focus on shareable plates and locally-sourced produce, with a speciality in oysters served freshly shucked or grilled. The drinks menu will be equally impressive, featuring a long list of ales, lagers, English wines, and a curated cocktail selection.
This multi-million-pound investment in The Hoop & Grapes is part of Shepherd Neame's broader commitment to its London estate, following recent major refurbishments at other iconic venues like Soho's Tom Cribb and the Westminster Arms.
