The Nell of Old Drury, Covent Garden has opened its doors following a £220,000 investment

The Nell of Old Drury, Covent Garden has opened its doors to guests once more, following a £220,000 investment. A pub steeped in theatrical history.

In the heart of London’s West End, a visit to The Nell of Old Drury is a journey into the history of London’s West End. Arranged across two floors, this pub named after Nell Gwyn, famed actress and infamous mistress of Charles II, even refers to its second floor as the Upper Circle. Firmly in the midst of theatreland, enjoy a drink while overlooking the world-famous Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

There has reportedly been a pub on this site since the 1600s and, after a short closure, The Nell of Old Drury reopens with its centuries of magic firmly in place. The classic theatre-style exterior, that could be straight out of central casting, and is only the first delight. The walls of The Nell are still lined with posters and memorabilia from some of London’s best-known theatre productions, old and new. Many are signed by the cast from numerous visits throughout the decades. You could while away many hours, over a drink, simply spotting your favourite star’s autograph. The Nell is, however, not a relic of the past, but a lively, modern pub. An eclectic mix of old and new come together to create a warm, welcoming environment. The perfect place to stop by on your way to or from that long-awaited smash hit show.

The Nell now offers a brand-new drinks menu. They have an exciting range of cocktails. Classics you may know and love such as Aperol Spritz and Espresso Martini to more unusual finds, like the elderflower and apple infused English Garden, that could become new favourites. If you love gin, The Nell is for you. Enjoy their Gin of the Month special or pick from a gin menu that includes everything from a quintessential London Dry to rhubarb and ginger infusions. A carefully curated wine list means there is something for every taste, from the old and new world. For the festive season, why not enjoy a prosecco or even a bottle of Veuve Clicquot for that special occasion. On tap, a wide selection of lagers, beers and ales and alcohol-free options are amongst the selection.

The Nell of Old Drury reopens at the perfect time for the run up to Christmas and the party season. Whatever the occasion, The Nell team guarantee excellent service and a wide range of fabulous drinks. Drinks packages are available throughout the festive season. Buy three, four or six bottles of wine or fizz at a special set price, perfect for that pre-Christmas get-together.

Joe Baillie, General Manager of The Nell of Old Drury, said: “I am so excited about the future of The Nell. The team love the pub’s polished new look and can’t wait to show people around every time a new visitor walks in the door. The new drinks menu truly has something for everybody.

“It is a new chapter in the storied history of The Nell and I cannot wait to see it go from strength to strength. We are delighted to welcome guests and the West End community again.”

The impressive frontage of The Nell of Old Drury features a glorious bay window. Inside, the full-length of the window has a comfortable bench seat that is always in high demand. The perfect vantage point to watch the west-end world go by. Upstairs too, large windows give the perfect vantage point for people watching. In London’s West End, people watching can, of course, also involve star spotting. Look out for theatre’s big names wending their way to their evening performance.