The White Hart

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.