Why The Punch Tavern Is Worth Walking Into
You may have spotted The Punch Tavern while exploring Fleet Street, or perhaps you’ve come looking for the historic gin palace associated with London’s famous Punch magazine.
The Punch Tavern is easy to walk past, so look for the figure of Mr. Punch above the entrance. A narrow tiled corridor leads into the main bar, where the room opens up beneath two beautiful glass skylights. You’ll find traditional seating around the room, with additional space toward the rear.
Know Before You Go
The Punch Tavern attracts a mix of visitors and Fleet Street workers, particularly during weekday lunch hours and after work. Arriving earlier gives you a better chance of finding a comfortable seat and enjoying the Victorian atmosphere. If you’re staying for a meal, expect traditional British pub favorites, including fish and chips and savory pies.
What’s the Pint Pick?
Order a pint of Harvey’s Sussex Bitter if it’s available. This traditional 4% cask ale from Sussex has a balanced, malty character with a pleasantly dry, hoppy finish. It’s a classic English bitter and a fitting choice for a historic Fleet Street pub.
Order your pint or half-pint at the bar and pay when you order. If the card machine prompts you for a tip, you can press skip. Digital prompts are increasingly common these days, but tipping is still not customary when buying drinks at a London pub bar counter.
The History Behind The Punch Tavern
On either side of the inner doors, you’ll find two large Victorian paintings of Mr. and Mrs. Punch. Their rather sinister expressions are an unexpected welcome to a pub named after Punch, the famous British satirical magazine founded in 1841.
Fleet Street was once the heart of London’s publishing industry, and the tavern’s name reflects its association with Punch, the famous satirical magazine. The magazine took its name from the mischievous puppet character of traditional Punch and Judy shows.
Before leaving, take another look at the corridor’s elaborate wall tiles, mirrors and mosaic floor. Inside the bar, the etched mirrors and decorative woodwork recall the pub’s transformation into an elaborate Victorian gin palace during the 1890s.
Address: 99 Fleet Street, London EC4Y 1DE
Nearest Station: Blackfriars or Chancery Lane
Website: The Punch Tavern