The Seven Stars: London's Historic Legal Pub

A Legacy Surviving Centuries

The Seven Stars stands as a remarkable survivor of London's turbulent history, with origins tracing back to 1602 during the reign of Elizabeth I. Unlike many establishments, it escaped the devastation of the Great Fire of London in 1666, preserving its place in the city's heritage. Originally named "The League of Seven Stars," the pub's name referenced the seven provinces of the Netherlands, a nod to its early Dutch sailor patrons. Over time, the name was shortened to The Seven Stars, reflecting changing political and commercial realities in Anglo-Dutch relations.

Historic Connections and Cultural Ties

Situated near the legal heart of London, opposite the Royal Courts of Justice, The Seven Stars has long attracted a clientele connected to the law. Its proximity to Middle Temple also linked it to Shakespearean history, with performances of his plays occurring nearby. The novelist Charles Dickens is believed to have drawn inspiration from this pub for his depiction of The Magpie & Stump in "The Pickwick Papers." The pub's interior echoes its storied past, featuring Victorian bar-backs, etched and gilded glass doors, and distinctive brewery mirrors from the late 19th century.

Atmosphere and Interior Character

Inside, The Seven Stars offers an eclectic and intimate ambiance, contrasting with the grandeur of its legal surroundings. The snug known as the Wig Box, once a wig maker’s shop, still displays bewigged dummies, adding a quirky charm. The ceiling is adorned with dried hops, and the wood-paneled walls are decorated with photographs and film posters related to legal dramas and famous barristers. The pub blends traditional pub seating with bistro-style tables covered in vintage gingham plastic, creating a casual yet historic environment.

Gastronomy and Management

Under the stewardship of Roxy Beaujolais, a celebrated landlady and former private caterer, The Seven Stars serves a varied menu that defies easy categorization. British classics such as roast chicken and chicken liver pâté share space with more unusual dishes like dill-cured herring and dahl salad with tortilla. The pub is also known for its excellent selection of cask ales, including the historically significant Pilsner Urquell drawn from casks. Roxy’s management has been credited with revitalizing the pub, maintaining its reputation for quality food and a welcoming atmosphere.

Architectural Evolution and Preservation

While the pub's frontage bears the date 1602, much of the building dates from the 1680s, with an extension added in 1878. The Victorian elements, including the bar counters and advertising panels, reflect the pub’s 19th-century modifications. Despite numerous changes over the centuries, The Seven Stars retains its Grade II listed status, preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. Its unique layout, with separate "private" and "general" counters, is a rare feature that speaks to historical class distinctions within London pubs.

Community and Legal Hub

Today, The Seven Stars remains a beloved free house and a hub for the legal community, locals, tourists, and tradespeople alike. Its location in Holborn places it at the crossroads of London's legal and cultural life. The pub’s blend of history, character, and quality hospitality offers visitors a tangible connection to London's past and a vibrant venue for present-day socializing.