Ye Olde Mitre pub stands as a cinematic treasure in London’s historic Holborn district, blending five centuries of history with notable appearances in modern filmmaking. The hidden Tudor-style tavern has captured the imagination of directors from Guy Ritchie to Terence Davies, making it a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts seeking the authentic London locations behind their favorite ye olde mitre movie scenes.
Key Takeaways
- Established in 1546 and rebuilt in 1773, this Grade II listed building combines Georgian exterior with Tudor-style interior
- Featured prominently in Guy Ritchie’s crime film “Snatch” as Doug’s diamond store with Brad Pitt filming scenes nearby
- The pub’s historic cherry tree stump allegedly marks where Queen Elizabeth I danced with Sir Christopher Hatton
- Located down a narrow alleyway at 1 Ely Court, its hidden entrance adds to the pub’s mystique and film appeal
- Offers an authentic London pub experience with Fuller’s ales and traditional atmosphere free from music and TVs
Introduction to London’s Hidden Historic Gem
Tucked away in a narrow alleyway near Hatton Garden’s bustling jewelry district sits Ye Olde Mitre, one of London’s most historic hidden pubs. Originally established in 1546 to serve the servants of the Bishop of Ely, this architectural treasure was rebuilt in 1773 and later remodeled in the 1930s. Its location at 1 Ely Court (EC1N 6SJ) places it just a short 0.2-mile walk from Farringdon tube station, making it accessible yet delightfully secluded.
The pub earned its Grade II listed status in 1985, recognizing its significant historical and architectural importance. It’s also proudly featured on CAMRA’s National Inventory for historic pub interiors, cementing its place among London’s most cherished drinking establishments. For those planning to explore London’s best sightseeing tours, this cinematic landmark consistently ranks among the Evening Standard’s top London pubs and offers a perfect glimpse into the capital’s rich heritage.
A Walk Through Five Centuries of History
The story of Ye Olde Mitre begins with its original construction to serve the Bishop of Ely’s London residence. Perhaps its most famous historical artifact is the cherry tree stump preserved in the front bar, which allegedly marks the boundary between Hatton Garden and Ely Place. Local legend claims Queen Elizabeth I danced around this very tree with Sir Christopher Hatton, adding royal flair to the pub’s colorful history.
What makes this establishment particularly remarkable is its survival through centuries of urban development, particularly the significant redevelopment of London in the 18th century that claimed many historic buildings. The pub maintains curious ties to Cambridge through the Diocese of Ely’s jurisdiction, creating an unusual legal status that persists to this day.
In terms of historical significance, Ye Olde Mitre stands alongside other venerable London establishments like The Prospect of Whitby, though its intimate size and hidden location give it a distinct character. The pub’s proximity to important historic churches in London further enhances its appeal for history enthusiasts.
Architectural Marvels: Georgian Exterior, Tudor Interior
Ye Olde Mitre presents a fascinating architectural juxtaposition, with its Georgian exterior features including stock brick, elegant sash windows, and decorative Corinthian pilasters. Step inside, however, and you’re transported to a different era entirely, as the interior showcases charming Tudor-style paneling from the 1930s remodeling that gives the space its distinctive character.
The pub’s compact layout includes two intimate lounge bars and a snug aptly named “Ye Closet.” The Bishop’s Room, added in 1990, now hosts private events in keeping with the establishment’s historical theme. One particularly unique architectural quirk: the gents’ toilets remain accessible only from outside – a rare feature in modern London that speaks to the building’s age and original design.
This intimate layout creates a distinctly different atmosphere from larger Victorian pubs like The Viaduct Tavern, making Ye Olde Mitre feel like a genuine step back in time. The preservation of these historical elements has earned the pub recognition from Historic England for maintaining its early 20th-century fittings with remarkable authenticity.
Star-Studded Film Appearances
Ye Olde Mitre’s cinematic fame comes primarily from its prominent appearance in Guy Ritchie’s hit crime film “Snatch” (2000), where it served as Doug’s diamond store. Brad Pitt, who starred in the film, appeared in scenes filmed at and near the pub, cementing its place in modern film history. According to the Evening Standard, this location choice perfectly captured the historic, secretive atmosphere of London’s diamond district.
The pub also played a key role in “The Deep Blue Sea” (2011), a romantic drama featuring Tom Hiddleston. Its Tudor aesthetics made it an ideal setting for period dramas, allowing filmmakers to capture authentic historical ambiance without elaborate set construction. This versatility explains why the location continues to attract filmmakers seeking both gritty criminal underworld settings and romantic historical backdrops.
What makes Ye Olde Mitre particularly interesting to film buffs is the contrast between its roles in different genres – from the fast-paced, humorous crime world of “Snatch” to the emotional, character-driven drama of “The Deep Blue Sea.” For fans plotting a tour of London’s iconic sightseeing spots, this pub offers a chance to stand where famous scenes were filmed.
The Authentic London Pub Experience
Visitors to Ye Olde Mitre can expect a genuinely traditional pub atmosphere that feels increasingly rare in modern London. Open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM (closed Sundays), the pub serves a selection of Fuller’s ales, traditional cider, and classic pub snacks like toasties – perfect fare after exploring nearby attractions.
What many patrons appreciate most is the authentic environment with no music or TVs to distract from conversation and the historic surroundings. This commitment to preserving a traditional pub experience has earned Ye Olde Mitre recognition from Historic England and a feature in The Guardian’s “Hidden London” series.
The pub maintains a delicate balance between serving as a tourist attraction and remaining a beloved local haunt. Unlike some historic pubs that have become overly commercialized, Ye Olde Mitre retains its character and charm through thoughtful preservation of both its physical features and its traditional pub atmosphere.
Finding the Hidden Entrance
Part of Ye Olde Mitre’s enduring appeal lies in the adventure of finding its entrance. Located down a narrow alleyway near Hatton Garden’s jewelry shops, the pub doesn’t announce itself loudly to passersby. Its address at 1 Ely Court (EC1N 6SJ) places it a short walk from Farringdon tube station (approximately 0.2 miles), but first-time visitors should be prepared for a bit of a treasure hunt.
Potential visitors should note some accessibility challenges, including narrow passageways and steps that reflect the building’s age and original design. Look for the small pub sign on the main street directing visitors to the alley – this discreet signage is your first clue that you’re on the right track.
This hidden nature contributes significantly to the pub’s charm and mystique, making the discovery all the more rewarding. The sense of having found a secret spot in the heart of London adds to the experience and explains why filmmakers find the location so compelling for storytelling.
Curious Facts and Legends
Beyond its cinematic fame, Ye Olde Mitre harbors fascinating stories and unusual historical connections. The cherry tree where Queen Elizabeth I allegedly danced with Sir Christopher Hatton remains the pub’s most famous legend, connecting this humble establishment to Tudor royal history in a tangible way.
The pub sits at an interesting jurisdictional boundary between the City of London and Camden, creating a unique legal status that dates back centuries. Its historical ties to the Diocese of Ely have created an unusual legal position that persists into the modern era, making it a fascinating case study in London’s complex administrative history.
For those interested in London’s darker history, William Wallace was executed near Smithfield Market, just a 10-minute walk away. Nearby St. Etheldreda’s Church (the oldest Catholic church in England) and the Old Bailey courthouse provide additional historical context, making the area a rich tapestry of London’s past.
A Perfect Film History Walking Tour
Visiting Ye Olde Mitre offers the perfect starting point for a self-guided film history tour of central London. Combine your pub visit with exploration of Hatton Garden’s jewelry district, following the “Snatch” filming locations in the immediate vicinity as documented by film location enthusiasts.
From there, you can visit nearby Smithfield Market, which has featured in numerous films and television productions. The area’s legal landmarks and historic architecture provide an excellent backdrop for understanding the cinematic appeal of this district.
St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Museum of London lie within walking distance, offering opportunities to expand your exploration of London’s history both on and off screen. The route also provides excellent photographic opportunities to capture the striking contrast between modern skyscrapers and historic architecture that makes London such a visually compelling film location.
Sources:
Evening Standard – London pubs in film from Snatch to The Long Good Friday