Old Fountain: Historic Freehouse and Craft Beer Haven in Old Street, London
Historic family-run freehouse in Old Street, London, famed for award-winning ales, hearty British food, and a stylish rooftop terrace.
The Old Fountain is a cherished family-run pub located at 3 Baldwin Street, London, known for its rich history dating back to 1964 and its award-winning selection of cask ales and craft beers. This welcoming freehouse combines traditional British pub charm with a modern rooftop terrace, serving hearty classic dishes alongside a varied beer menu, making it a standout destination in the EC1V postcode.
A brief summary to Old Fountain
- 3 Baldwin St, London, EC1V 9NU, GB
- +442072532970
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Try the rotating selection of cask ales and craft keg beers, including local brewery favourites.
- Visit the rooftop terrace for a bright and relaxed dining experience with classic pub dishes.
- Come on Saturdays to enjoy live music alongside your drinks.
- Be prepared for a lively atmosphere downstairs, especially during peak hours.
- Reserve some time to explore both the traditional bar and the modern rooftop spaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Old Fountain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Old Fountain
A Legacy of Family and Community
The Old Fountain has been a cornerstone of the Old Street area since the Durrant family took over in 1964. Originally a Whitbread house, it evolved from a traditional community pub where locals gathered for meals, celebrations, and socialising, into a celebrated freehouse that embraces both its heritage and the modern craft beer movement. The Durrants' stewardship reflects a deep commitment to preserving the pub's character and quality, resisting lucrative offers to sell and instead focusing on a way of life that values community and craft.Exceptional Beer Selection and Brewing Philosophy
The pub is renowned for its expertly curated beer selection, featuring eight perfectly kept cask ales and a dozen keg lines, including favourites from British craft breweries like Kernel, Siren, and local Five Points Brewery. This dedication earned the Old Fountain a CAMRA award in 2013, highlighting its status as one of London’s premier beer destinations. The bar atmosphere downstairs is convivial and welcoming, attracting both seasoned beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.Atmosphere and Unique Spaces
Inside, the Old Fountain offers two distinct experiences: the classic, old-school British boozer downstairs with its friendly, bustling vibe, and an upstairs stylish roof terrace with light wood panelling and a relaxed ambiance. The terrace provides a bright, airy space ideal for enjoying food and drinks in the rare London sunshine, contrasting delightfully with the cozy traditional bar below.Culinary Offerings Rooted in Tradition
Food at the Old Fountain is hearty and classic, with dishes like sausage and mash, beef burgers, and sticky toffee pudding served from an open kitchen. The menu balances quality and value, offering substantial portions at prices notably lower than many nearby options. The pub’s food complements its beer selection, making it a full dining and drinking experience.Enduring Appeal and Cultural Significance
Despite the rapid modernization of the Old Street area, the Old Fountain remains a rare gem, maintaining a sense of strange tranquility amid the urban bustle. It continues to attract a diverse clientele, from local regulars to visitors seeking authentic London pub culture. The pub also hosts live music events on Saturdays, further enriching its community role and entertainment offerings.Commitment to Craft and Continuity
The current publican, Jim Durrant, and his son David, who is preparing to take over, embody the pub’s enduring spirit. Their support for the British brewing revolution and dedication to quality ensure the Old Fountain remains a vital and vibrant part of London’s pub scene, blending tradition with innovation in a way few other establishments can match.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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London City wall
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182 Bishopsgate
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Guildhall
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St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
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Sir William Wallace Memorial
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Northumbria University - London
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Guildhall Library
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Unmissable attractions to see
Westland Place Studios
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City Unscripted
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Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
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Explore the tranquil Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a historic cemetery in London housing the graves of literary giants and influential figures, amidst beautiful greenery.
Museum of Methodism
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Floripa
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Hoxton Square
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Trafik
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Sunset Bar
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Shoreditch Balls
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
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Callooh Callay
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The Hoxton Pony
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Essential places to dine
Nest Restaurant Old Street
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The Clove Club
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Lyle's
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Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
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St. John
1.1 km
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Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.3 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.
Brawn
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Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Nomadic community
1.5 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Madison
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Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
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Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
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14 Hills
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La Dame de Pic London
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Da Terra Restaurant
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Sea Containers Restaurant
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Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
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Unique Gifts
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A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
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Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
Luna & Curious
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Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Spitalfields Market
1.2 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Sclater Street Market
1.2 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
The Truman Brewery Markets
1.3 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.3 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
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Commercial St
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Camden Passage, Islington
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The Brick Lane Vintage Market
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Backyard Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Ballie Ballerson London
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Aviary
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TT
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The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
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Dirty Dicks
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The Astronomer, EC1
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Demon, Wise & Partners
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Steel Yard
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Carwash Nightclub
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The Roxy
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Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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The Ivy Club
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Covent Garden Social Club
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Heaven
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Club49Soho
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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