The Blind Beggar, Historic East End Pub in Whitechapel
Historic East End pub famed for gangster lore, medieval legend, and a vibrant community spirit in Whitechapel, London.
The Blind Beggar is a legendary pub located at 337 Whitechapel Road, London, steeped in East End history and notorious for its gangster and supernatural associations. Established on the site of an inn dating back to the early 1600s, the current building dates from 1894. It is famously known as the site of the 1966 murder of George Cornell by Ronnie Kray, and its name derives from the medieval legend of the Blind Beggar of Bethnal Green. The pub features a large beer garden, koi carp pond, and retains a dark, atmospheric interior that attracts history buffs and ghost hunters alike.
A brief summary to The Blind Beggar
- 337 Whitechapel Rd, London, E1 1BU, GB
- +442072476195
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12:30 am
- Saturday 11 am-12:30 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the large beer garden in summer for live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Explore the koi carp pond at the back, home to impressively large fish.
- Learn about the pub’s gangster history, including the infamous 1966 murder of George Cornell.
- Enjoy a pint of the pub’s own 'Beggars Belief' ale for a local taste.
- Take time to appreciate the medieval legend of the Blind Beggar of Bethnal Green that inspired the pub’s name.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the District or Hammersmith & City Line to Whitechapel Station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to The Blind Beggar. Whitechapel Station is well-serviced with frequent trains and is accessible. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground pricing applies.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes, including 25, 205, and 254, stop near Whitechapel Road. The bus stop closest to The Blind Beggar is Whitechapel Road / Cambridge Heath Road, about a 5-minute walk. Bus fares are standard for London buses, with contactless or Oyster card payment accepted.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at 337 Whitechapel Road. Travel time varies by traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London. Fares depend on distance and time, generally ranging from £10 to £25.
-
Walking
If you are in the Whitechapel or Shoreditch area, walking to The Blind Beggar is straightforward and takes about 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
The Blind Beggar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Blind Beggar
Origins Rooted in Legend and Early History
The Blind Beggar pub stands on Whitechapel Road, London, on a site that hosted an inn since at least the early 1600s. The current building was constructed in 1894 and takes its name from the medieval ballad of the Blind Beggar of Bethnal Green. According to the legend, Henry de Montfort, blinded at the Battle of Evesham in 1265, lived as a beggar to conceal his noble lineage, with his daughter Bessy marrying a knight who loved her for herself rather than her wealth. This story became a symbolic narrative of pride and humility in East End folklore and was adopted in the coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Bethnal Green in 1900.A Pub with a Dark and Notorious Reputation
The Blind Beggar is infamous for its connections to East End gangster history. Most notably, it was the scene of the 1966 murder of George Cornell by notorious gangster Ronnie Kray, who shot Cornell in the head inside the pub. The incident remains one of the most chilling moments in London's criminal past. Earlier, in 1904, a violent stabbing occurred within the pub involving members of a local gang, adding to its sinister reputation. The pub’s dark interior and storied past attract ghost hunters and those intrigued by London's underworld history.A Hub for Brewing and Community Life
Historically, The Blind Beggar served as the brewery tap for the Manns Albion Brewery next door, which was founded in the early 19th century and became one of Britain’s largest breweries by the late 1800s. The pub was closely tied to the brewing industry and was where the first modern Brown Ale was brewed. Though the brewery closed in 1979, the pub remains a community landmark, preserving the spirit of East London’s working-class heritage.Atmosphere and Features Today
Today, The Blind Beggar offers a cozy yet slightly eerie atmosphere with a roaring fire in winter and a welcoming pool table. Its large beer garden is a popular spot during summer, hosting live music events. A standout feature is the koi carp pond at the rear, home to impressively large fish. The pub focuses on quality alcoholic beverages, including its own ale called 'Beggars Belief,' and serves simple pub fare. Despite its dark history, it remains a convivial venue for locals and visitors.Connections to East End Culture and Salvation Army
The pub is also linked to the social history of the East End, notably as the place where William Booth, founder of The Salvation Army, preached his first sermon nearby. The Whitechapel Mission, established by Booth and his wife Catherine, is close by, and a statue commemorates him in the area. This connection highlights the pub’s place not only in criminal lore but in the broader cultural and charitable fabric of East London.Legacy and Continuing Appeal
The Blind Beggar remains a magnet for those fascinated by London's layered history—from medieval legends to gangster folklore and social reform movements. Its enduring presence on Whitechapel Road, combined with its distinctive atmosphere and historical significance, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the East End’s rich and complex heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
0.8 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
0.9 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Arnold Circus
1.4 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Northumbria University - London
1.5 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
1.5 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Execution Dock
1.5 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Devonshire Square
1.6 km
A vibrant historic campus blending heritage, modern workspaces, and lively lifestyle spaces in central London’s City.
Shoreditch Church
1.6 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Mitre Square
1.6 km
Mitre Square: A serene retreat in London’s financial district, blending rich history with beautiful landscapes for an unforgettable city experience.
182 Bishopsgate
1.6 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
1.6 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
1.7 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
1.7 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
London Wall
1.7 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Tower Hill
1.8 km
Explore Tower Hill in London, where history meets stunning views and vibrant culture in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spitalfields City Farm
0.8 km
A free-entry city farm in East London where rare-breed animals, organic gardens and a community tea hut create a peaceful rural escape in the heart of the city.
Whitechapel Bell Foundry
0.8 km
Discover the historic Whitechapel Bell Foundry, London's legendary birthplace of iconic bells like Big Ben and the Liberty Bell.
Nomadic community
0.9 km
A hidden creative sanctuary off Brick Lane, blending street art, community spirit, and sustainable urban gardening in East London.
Altab Ali Park
0.9 km
A historic East London park honoring Altab Ali’s legacy, blending cultural heritage, community activism, and peaceful green space.
Backyard Market
1.0 km
Discover East London's vibrant creative scene at Backyard Market, a weekend hotspot for unique art, fashion, and artisanal treasures in the historic Old Truman Brewery.
Young V&A
1.0 km
A vibrant, free museum in East London where children and families ignite creativity through play, design, and imagination.
Cable Street Mural
1.0 km
A vivid, monumental mural in East London commemorating the 1936 Battle of Cable Street and the community’s defiant stand against fascism.
Whitechapel Gallery
1.0 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and historic masterpieces in East London’s iconic Whitechapel Gallery, a century-old cultural landmark.
Princelet St
1.0 km
Step back into London’s rich immigrant past on Princelet Street, where Georgian heritage meets vibrant cultural history in Spitalfields.
Brick Lane Mosque
1.0 km
Brick Lane Jamme Masjid: A historic mosque embodying centuries of faith, migration, and community in East London’s vibrant Spitalfields.
Upmarket Brick Lane Food Hall
1.0 km
Discover a lively indoor market in East London offering diverse global street food and a vibrant cultural atmosphere at Brick Lane.
Brick Ln
1.0 km
Discover Brick Lane: London's vibrant street filled with rich history, eclectic shops, and tantalizing food from around the world.
The Truman Brewery
1.1 km
Historic East London brewery turned vibrant creative hub, blending rich heritage with markets, art, and culture on iconic Brick Lane.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
1.1 km
Explore the UK's largest vintage market in East London, a vibrant hub for retro fashion, unique collectibles, and cultural energy seven days a week.
The Jack the Ripper Tour
1.1 km
Step into Victorian London’s eerie East End on a gripping walking tour tracing Jack the Ripper’s chilling footsteps and stories.
Essential places to dine
Da Terra Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Brawn
1.4 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Lyle's
1.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.5 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
The Clove Club
1.7 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.8 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
La Dame de Pic London
1.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
1.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Behind Restaurant
2.1 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Restaurant Story
2.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Madison
2.8 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
George
2.9 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Hackney Church Brew Co.
3.1 km
A vibrant brewery and taproom in Hackney Central blending craft beers, open-flame cooking, and a welcoming community spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Brick Lane Souvenirs
1.0 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.1 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Middlesex Textiles
1.4 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Luna & Curious
1.5 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Broadway Market
1.9 km
A lively Victorian street market in East London offering global street food, unique crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere every weekend.
Traders Gate
1.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
2.0 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Tower of London Shop
2.0 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
2.1 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
2.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
The Royal Exchange
2.2 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Hay's Galleria
2.4 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
1 Poultry
2.4 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Barbican Shop
2.6 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
One New Change
2.8 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sun Tavern
0.8 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Satan's Whiskers
1.1 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
1.2 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Discount Suit Company
1.3 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Bell
1.4 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.5 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.5 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
1.6 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
1.6 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
1.7 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.7 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Old Blue Last
1.7 km
Historic Shoreditch pub and iconic live music venue where London’s grassroots artists rise amid a raw, vibrant atmosphere.
Callooh Callay
1.7 km
Discover the quirky charm and inventive cocktails of Callooh Callay, Shoreditch’s hidden gem with a secret lounge and playful spirit.
Ballie Ballerson London
1.7 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E1
1.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Hoxton Pony
1.7 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.8 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Trafik
1.8 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
2.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Steel Yard
2.6 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
3.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Ministry of Sound
3.9 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Club 701
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Corsica Studios
4.1 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
4.3 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Proud Late
4.4 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
4.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
4.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
4.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- 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
