History of The Grapes, Limehouse pub owned by Ian McKellen

The current building dates back to the early 1700s in Narrow Street <i>(Image: Google Maps)</i>
The current building dates back to the early 1700s in Narrow Street (Image: Google Maps)
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We shine a spotlight on one of east London's historic pubs that is owned by one of the country's most famous actors.

Standing tall in Narrow Street, Limehouse, those in search of a drink can find The Grapes, one of London's oldest pubs.

The watering hole is owned by Sir Ian McKellen, star of stage and screen.

It has laid claim on the grounds of 76 Narrow Street since the 16th century, displaying a blue plaque to commemorate its business since 1583. 

At this time, The Grapes was known as The Bunch of Grapes. 

Signage on the side of The Grapes which dates back to at least 1985 has been preserved in place, reading: "The Grapes ale house & upstairs dining room. The upstairs dining room at The Grapes specializes in fresh fish."

The pub is situated overlooking the Thames from the rear, with wooden steps that provided access right onto the banks of the river. 

It is understood that from here, Sir Walter Raleigh set sail on his third voyage to the New World.

The pub has an interesting history in attracting literary greats and people of importance. 

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Samuel Pepys' famed diary records a trip in 1661 to lime kilns from the jetty just along from The Grapes. 

Charles Dickens in the opening chapter of Our Mutual Friend, Oscar Wilde in Dorian Gray and Arthur Conan Doyle in his Sherlock Holmes series are just some who have written of the pub.

The Grapes survived the Blitz bombing in the Second World War.

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