Nell Gwynne, London WC2

About us

Built on the site of the Old Bull Inn, the Nell Gwynne Tavern was named after the infamous mistress of Charles II. Nell, born and raised in the locality at St Martin in the Fields, sold fruit in the nearby Covent Garden market before gaining fame as an actress on the Drury Lane stage. Samuel Pepys describes seeing “the mighty pretty Nell” on his way to the Strand in 1667.

Nothing if not a den of iniquity, in 1897, William Terris, a well-known actor of the day, was murdered yards from the pub by a stage hand from the neighbouring Adelphi Theatre. While in the 60s the notorious Richardson Gang were reputed to have frequented The Nell.

Today, ‘the Nell’ is one of London’s most charming and historic hidden treasures, offering a great selection of local beers, wines and spirits and a lively but cosy setting just yards from the hustle and bustle of the Strand. The Nell boasts one of London’s best jukeboxes packed with classics for the discerning ear.

AirconDogs allowedFamily friendlyReal aleReal fireSmoking areaWiFi freeDartboardCricketFootballRugbyTerrestrial TVCask Marque

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Reviews

1,207 reviews

4.5/5

Eric Kmetz

1 year ago

Hidden away down a small alleyway, it’s a small pub that provides a great space for a pint or two. Admittedly I’m a tourist but was looking for a proper boozer that wasn’t owned by spoons or Greene king. This place did not disappoint.

Irena Savchenko

2 years ago

Cute little pub with great selection of drinks.. no food though, only crisps. Such a shame about the loudly blasting music which was overpowering any conversation... Couldn't even order a drink without having to shout twice. Also the smell of bleach was quite strong when we visited. The toilets are downstairs, so might not be suitable for those with accessibility needs.

Daniel Muggeridge

2 years ago

Solid selection of cheeses, beers but you're not here for that - the atmosphere of what must be one of the smallest pubs in the UK is awesome. Genuine traditional English pub, great wee spot.

Kevin Bird

2 years ago

Great pub but stairs down to the toilet are so dangerous. Way too steep and limited head hight. Be careful if you have been drinking as you could end up in a pile at the botoom. Shame as great pub with lovely atmosphere. Superb beers. Gin served in a tall glass which is wrong. Should be a bowl glass. We had a superb time in here. Will be back soon

J. Q

2 years ago

It is a bar that hidden in a little alleyway near Charing Cross station. Lots of people standing in front of the bar drinking, the atmosphere is very light and casual, people are chatting happily and also smoking. There are quite a lot draft beers selections. There are some pickled eggs at the bar. The bartender said that it is a tradition of this pub however I didn’t get to try it.