Bow Street Tavern: London pub once home to Britain's first police force reopens after major revamp

Bow Street Tavern, once the home of Britain’s first police force, the Bow Street Runners, has reopened following an extensive refurbishment.

Set in the heart of London’s theatreland, the historic pub has undergone a complete transformation, reopening its doors with five floors of dining and event spaces, including a rooftop pub garden and a karaoke room.

Discover the right space for you with each of the five floors offering its distinct character and charm. At the heart is the pub, where traditional British boozer meets modern flair and where perfectly poured pints await.

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The first-floor bar, terrace, and dining space come with a cosy outside terrace covered in twinkling lights, whilst the upper floors play host to three event spaces. There’s an intimate private dining room for up to 20 guests; a covered rooftop terrace for 35 revellers and, for those who fancy a sing-along, the fourth-floor karaoke room hosts up to 20 under a glittering disco ball.

Dating back to 1763, great care has been taken to pay homage to the pub’s history. Subtle nods to the Bow Street Runners are in evidence, from police box memorabilia, policeman's notebook-style drinks menus and artwork to the aptly named private dining room, The Constabulary.

The site’s former prison cells now form the pub’s cellar, with other design details including exposed brick walls, polished brass and dark-stained wood against a palette of plum, burgundy, and purple.

Onto the menu, enjoy comforting yet contemporary dishes ranging from small plates to time-honoured pub favourites, all championing seasonal ingredients with many sourced from local farms and suppliers.

Best shared with friends, small plates blend British produce with global influences. Highlights include Shredded chicken taco with pickled red onion and chilli; Chorizo with jalapeños and hot honey; and Gammon and Ogleshield cheese croquettes with Marmite may,o while pub classics also feature with the likes of a Cumberland Scotch egg with piccalilli relish.

Larger plates follow a more traditional route, with choices of Steak & Young’s ale pie and Fire-charred sirloin steak with wild garlic butter. Finish off with the must-try Rhubarb and custard knickerbocker glory.

Come Sunday, signature roasts take centre stage, all served with an abundance of crispy-yet-fluffy roasties, double egg Yorkshires, seasonal greens, and plenty of gravy. Succulent meats include West Country beef, slow-roasted Dingley Dell pork belly, and a half lemon and thyme Shropshire chicken, while the meat-free Spinach and pea tart ensures there is something for everyone.

Behind the bar, local on-tap, bottled, and cask brews sit alongside Young’s Original. The drinks list also features a concise list of world wines and premium spirits, while signature cocktails shine, including a dedicated margarita flight.

Guilty of serving up a good time, put on your party hat and rediscover the Bow Street Tavern, open now seven days a week, with bookings at www.bowstreettavern.com.