Old Fountain

A Family Legacy of Authenticity

The Old Fountain stands as a rare survivor in rapidly modernised East London, a testament to the vision and determination of the Durrant family. Since 1964, when Jim Durrant's father took over what was then a Whitbread house pub, the establishment has evolved from a traditional community local into one of London's most respected beer destinations. The pub's journey reflects broader changes in British pub culture—from the 1960s when pubs served as community hubs for warmth, meals, and social occasions, through the 1970s and 1980s when quick lunchtime pints dominated, to today's craft beer revolution. In the early 2000s, when Whitbread offered Jim a lucrative deal worth millions to relinquish the lease, he refused outright. His steely resolve reflects a philosophy that transcends commerce: this is a way of life, not a business transaction. That defiance has preserved something increasingly rare in London's ever-changing landscape.

Two Pubs in One

The Old Fountain's physical layout mirrors its dual nature. Two separate entrances on different streets lead to two distinct experiences. Downstairs, the original bar retains the soul of a traditional London boozer—intimate, atmospheric, and lined with handpumps serving an ever-rotating selection of exceptional ales. The front and back bars create natural gathering points, while a dartboard and fish tank add character. Upstairs, a stylish roof terrace with light-wood panelling and modern furnishings provides a contemporary counterpoint, popular on fine days and hosting live music on Saturdays. This architectural duality allows the pub to serve both the hardened real ale enthusiast seeking quiet contemplation and the social drinker wanting vibrant atmosphere.

A Revolution in Beer Selection

The transformation of Old Fountain's beer programme represents the pub's most dramatic evolution. Once limited to Whitbread's narrow range as a tied house, the pub became a freehouse and embraced the British brewing revolution with genuine passion. Today, nine handpulls and twenty taps showcase an extraordinary diversity: eight permanent real ale lines including Kernel Pale Ale, Siren Suspended In, and Camden Town offerings, complemented by six rotational cask lines covering pale ales, IPAs, stouts, and porters. The keg selection spans independent breweries from across the UK and beyond—Pressure Drop from Tottenham, Anspach & Hobday from Bermondsey, Gipsy Hill, Northern Monk, and international selections from Estonia and beyond. Staff actively encourage exploratory drinking, offering third-measure tastings before purchase. Vegan and gluten-free options are always available, reflecting conscientious approach to inclusivity.

Food That Matches the Beer

While beer is the primary focus, the kitchen deserves equal recognition. Open from 12–3pm and 5–9:30pm on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends, the menu balances classic British pub fare with contemporary touches. Signature dishes include sausage and mash, beef burgers, sticky toffee pudding, and the celebrated Sunday roast featuring roast beef, pork belly, and ribs with crispy potatoes. Pulled pork, ham and eggs, and vegan options receive particular praise. Prices remain reasonable for the area—roughly £43 for two people including drinks—making quality food and exceptional beer genuinely accessible.

Community and Character

The pub's atmosphere reflects its ownership philosophy. Despite frequent queues five-deep at the bar, the space maintains an unhurried, welcoming character. Jim Durrant and his son David, who is preparing to take over, have cultivated a venue where regulars and visitors coexist naturally. The pub has been featured in the Good Beer Guide continuously since 2005 and won a CAMRA award for beer in 2013. Its reputation extends far beyond Old Street—beer enthusiasts from across London make pilgrimages here specifically for the selection and atmosphere. The pub's two entrances have spawned a local legend: a drunk thrown out one door allegedly reappeared through the other two minutes later, convinced he'd entered a different pub.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on Baldwin Street at the eastern end of City Road, the Old Fountain sits mere steps from Old Street tube station, making it easily accessible from across London. The location places it within the creative and commercial heart of Shoreditch, yet the pub maintains a distinctly local character despite surrounding modernisation. Free Wi-Fi is available, though connectivity can be unreliable; the adjacent Moorfields Eye Hospital's signal sometimes penetrates the pub more effectively.