The Blackfriar: London's Art Nouveau Pub on Historic Grounds
Discover The Blackfriar, an Art Nouveau gem on historic monastic grounds, blending rich heritage with vibrant pub culture in central London.
The Blackfriar is a remarkable wedge-shaped pub located at 174 Queen Victoria Street, London, built in 1875 on the site of a medieval Dominican friary. Renowned for its exquisite Art Nouveau interiors, featuring bronze reliefs, mosaics, stained glass, and intricate carvings depicting friars' daily lives, it combines rich history with a cozy atmosphere. Saved from demolition in the 1960s by poet Sir John Betjeman, this Grade II* listed pub remains a cultural gem and a living museum of London's heritage.
A brief summary to The Blackfriar
- 174 Queen Victoria St, Greater, London, EC4V 4EG, GB
- +442072365474
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday lunchtimes or early evenings for a more relaxed atmosphere and to enjoy the detailed interior artwork without crowds.
- Take time to admire the bronze reliefs and mosaics depicting friars’ daily lives and the Seven Deadly Sins scattered throughout the pub.
- Try dining in the Grotto, a unique vaulted dining room excavated from the railway vault, for a cozy and atmospheric experience.
- Raise a glass to Sir John Betjeman, whose campaign saved the pub from demolition in the 1960s, preserving this cultural treasure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Blackfriars station, located approximately 120 meters from the pub. The station is served by the Circle and District lines, with trains running every 3-5 minutes during peak hours. The walk from the station to the pub takes about 3 minutes on flat, paved streets. No entrance fees apply for the tube.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Queen Victoria Street, including routes 4, 11, and 15. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a typical journey time of 15-25 minutes from central London areas. The nearest bus stop is about 2 minutes’ walk from the pub. Single bus fares cost approximately £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber can drop you directly at 174 Queen Victoria Street. Travel time varies from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8 to £15 from central London locations. Note that traffic congestion may affect travel times during peak hours.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to The Blackfriar is a pleasant option. From St Paul’s Cathedral, it is approximately a 7-minute walk (about 600 meters) along well-maintained pavements. The route is flat and accessible for most mobility levels.
The Blackfriar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Blackfriar
A Legacy Rooted in Medieval Monastic Life
The Blackfriar stands on the historic site of a Dominican friary established in 1180, whose monks were known as Black Friars due to their distinctive black habits. This medieval monastery was a center of religious life until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. The pub itself was constructed in 1875, paying homage to this heritage by adopting the Black Friar name and incorporating thematic elements that reflect the friars' legacy. The site’s monastic past is vividly brought to life through the pub’s design, which celebrates the daily routines and jovial spirit of the friars.An Art Nouveau Masterpiece of Design and Craftsmanship
The Blackfriar is an outstanding example of Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau architecture, remodeled extensively between 1905 and 1917 by architect Herbert Fuller-Clark and sculptor Henry Poole. Its wedge-shaped exterior, squeezed between busy roads and a railway bridge near Blackfriars station, conceals a richly decorated interior filled with bronze bas-reliefs, mosaics, stained glass windows, and carved wooden reliefs. These artworks depict scenes of friars fishing, harvesting, singing, and celebrating, creating an immersive environment that feels like a museum dedicated to monastic life. The lavish use of marble, mother-of-pearl, and intricate brass details amplify the pub’s unique aesthetic.A Sanctuary of Warmth and Character in the Heart of London
Inside, the Blackfriar offers a cozy yet impressive atmosphere with low lighting, intimate nooks, and a vaulted dining room ceiling that continues the medieval theme. The space is divided into a lounge-like bar area, a front room with low tables, and a separate dining room adorned with arches and friar motifs. The pub’s character is further enriched by playful details such as sculptures of devils engaging in amusing activities, and representations of the Seven Deadly Sins portrayed as friars’ heads on the ceiling. This blend of historical reverence and whimsical artistry makes the Blackfriar a truly captivating place to relax and enjoy.A Storied Survival and Cultural Significance
In the 1960s, the Blackfriar faced demolition amid urban redevelopment plans, as its location conflicted with proposed railway expansions. The pub was saved through a passionate campaign led by poet Sir John Betjeman, who recognized its architectural and cultural value. Thanks to these efforts, it was granted Grade II* listed status in 1972, ensuring its preservation as one of London’s finest historic pubs. Today, it stands not only as a vibrant neighborhood pub but also as a cultural institution and a living museum showcasing Victorian and Edwardian craftsmanship.Culinary Offerings and Visitor Experience
The Blackfriar serves food daily from lunchtime, offering a menu that complements its historic ambiance. Visitors can enjoy classic pub fare in the uniquely decorated surroundings, including the cozy Grotto dining area excavated from a railway vault. The pub’s blend of art, history, and hospitality makes it a favored destination for locals and tourists alike seeking an authentic London pub experience steeped in heritage.Location and Surroundings
Situated near Blackfriars station and just a short walk from St Paul’s Cathedral, the Blackfriar benefits from excellent urban connectivity while offering a tranquil retreat from the bustle of central London. Its proximity to the River Thames and other historic landmarks adds to its appeal as a cultural stopover. The pub’s distinctive wedge shape and ornate signage make it an iconic visual landmark in the cityscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Victoria Embankment
0.1 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Ludgate Circus
0.2 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.3 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.3 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.4 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.4 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Hare Pl
0.4 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
South Bank Community Area
0.5 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Prince Henry's Room
0.5 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Holborn Viaduct
0.6 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.6 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
St Clement Danes Church
0.7 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.1 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
Apothecaries' Hall
0.1 km
Historic 17th-century livery hall near St Paul’s, blending rich heritage with elegant event spaces and timeless charm.
Church Entry
0.2 km
Discover Church Entry, a narrow medieval alley in Blackfriars tracing the ancient Blackfriars Priory’s sacred church line beneath modern London.
City of London Distillery & Bar
0.2 km
Discover London’s historic gin distillery and cocktail bar, blending tradition, innovation, and over 130 gins in a stylish subterranean setting.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.2 km
Discover the historic heart of Fleet Street, where journalism, printing, and London’s past converge in a stunning Wren-designed church.
Punch Tavern
0.2 km
Discover The Punch Tavern, a historic pub on Fleet Street, serving traditional British fare and a vast selection of drinks in a charming atmosphere.
St Martin Ludgate
0.3 km
Discover St Martin Ludgate, a serene Wren church blending Roman history and 17th-century elegance in the heart of London’s ancient city.
Stationers' Hall
0.3 km
Historic Grade I listed venue near St Paul’s Cathedral offering elegant event spaces and a secluded garden for weddings and corporate events.
College of Arms
0.3 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
Fleet St
0.4 km
Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.4 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
Dr Johnson's House
0.5 km
Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
Millennium Bridge
0.5 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.5 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.5 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.6 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
St. John
0.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Wahaca Southbank
1.0 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.1 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Sarastro
1.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.2 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
The Archduke
1.2 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Strada Southbank
1.2 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
1.2 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.4 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.5 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.5 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.6 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Twinings - The Strand
0.6 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Sugar And Style
0.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Store X
0.8 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
London Silver Vaults
0.8 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
1 Poultry
0.9 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.0 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
not just a shop
1.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Barbican Shop
1.1 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
The Royal Exchange
1.1 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.2 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.4 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.5 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Understudy
0.8 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.1 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.1 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.1 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
1.1 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Plume Wine Bar
1.1 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Beaufort Bar
1.2 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
1.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Be At One - Russell Street
1.2 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.2 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.2 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.3 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
1.0 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Proud Late
1.0 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
London Best Night Clubs
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Cirque Du Soul
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
1.5 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Roxy
1.6 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Ministry of Sound
1.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.6 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
1.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
