The Crown Tavern: Historic Victorian Pub at Clerkenwell Green
Step into The Crown Tavern, a historic Victorian pub where revolutionary history meets classic London charm on Clerkenwell Green.
The Crown Tavern is a charming Victorian-era pub located at 43 Clerkenwell Green in Central London. Known for its historic interiors and political legacy, it is reputedly the site where Lenin and Stalin first met in 1903. The pub retains many original late 19th-century features, including a bar back and etched glass, and offers a welcoming atmosphere overlooking the former village green. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a blend of history, culture, and quality drinks in a lively yet relaxed setting.
A brief summary to The Crown Tavern
- 43 Clerkenwell Grn, Greater, London, EC1R 0EG, GB
- +442072534973
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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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-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday evenings to experience the lively atmosphere when locals gather after work.
- Take time to admire the original Victorian etched glass and bar back inside the pub.
- Enjoy outdoor seating in warmer months overlooking Clerkenwell Green for a quintessential London experience.
- Explore nearby historic sites like St James Church and the Marx Memorial Library to deepen your visit.
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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London Underground
Take the Central Line to the Chancery Lane station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through central Clerkenwell to reach The Crown Tavern. The walk involves urban streets with some cobblestones. No cost beyond standard Tube fare, approximately £2.50–£5 depending on travel card.
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Bus
Catch buses 55 or 243, which stop near Clerkenwell Green. Bus frequency is every 10–15 minutes during the day. The stop is about a 3-minute walk from the pub. A single bus fare costs around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8–£15. Note that traffic congestion and parking restrictions apply in Clerkenwell.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking is a pleasant option. From Farringdon station, the walk takes about 10 minutes through a mix of historic and modern streets. The terrain is flat and accessible for most travelers.
The Crown Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Crown Tavern
Architectural Heritage and Atmosphere
The Crown Tavern stands prominently on Clerkenwell Green, an area that once served as a village green but is now an open urban space in Central London. Built in the early 19th century, the pub underwent a significant Victorian refurbishment in the 1890s, which introduced characteristic features such as a finely crafted bar back, original etched glass doors, and cut glass windows advertising spirits like gin, rum, and vodka. Inside, the pub is divided into separate drinking areas by original partitions, preserving the intimate ambiance typical of Victorian public houses. The pub’s exterior and interior architecture reflect a rich heritage, offering visitors a genuine experience of London’s historic tavern culture.Political and Cultural Significance
The Crown Tavern holds a unique place in political history, reputed as the meeting place of two pivotal figures of the 20th century: Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin. While official records suggest their first meeting was in Finland in 1905, local lore claims they met here in 1903 when Stalin visited London to study Bolshevism. This connection situates the pub within the broader narrative of revolutionary politics and leftist movements in London’s Clerkenwell district, which was a hub for socialist and communist activity. Nearby landmarks such as the Marx Memorial Library and the Middlesex Sessions House enhance this historical context, making the pub a symbolic site for political enthusiasts.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 43 Clerkenwell Green, the Crown Tavern benefits from its proximity to notable historic sites. The eighteenth-century Grade II* listed St James Church stands just behind the pub, adding to the area's architectural interest. Clerkenwell Green itself, though no longer grassy, retains the character of a preserved village center within London, surrounded by a mix of housing, offices, and other pubs. The pub’s outdoor seating overlooks this space, providing a pleasant setting for socializing and people-watching. The location is well integrated into the vibrant Clerkenwell neighborhood, known for its creative industries and cultural venues.Entertainment and Media Appearances
The Crown Tavern has also featured in popular culture, notably appearing in the 2006 film "Notes On A Scandal," starring Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett. Historically, the pub’s upstairs Apollo Lounge was once the Apollo Concert Hall, a venue for nightly music hall entertainment during the Victorian era. Today, it continues to attract a diverse crowd, from local workers enjoying after-hours drinks to visitors drawn by its storied past and authentic Victorian pub atmosphere.Drinks and Dining Experience
The Crown Tavern offers a moderate price range for its food and drink, serving a selection of quality ales, spirits, and pub fare. The pub’s reputation for quality and atmosphere makes it a favored spot for both casual visits and special occasions. Its well-preserved Victorian features complement the experience, providing a setting that is both historic and welcoming. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular in warmer months, allowing patrons to enjoy the ambiance of Clerkenwell Green.Community and Legacy
Beyond its historical and architectural significance, the Crown Tavern remains a vital part of the Clerkenwell community. It serves as a social hub where history and modern life intersect, reflecting the evolving character of the neighborhood. The pub’s connection to revolutionary figures and London’s political heritage adds depth to its identity, making it more than just a place to drink—it is a living monument to the city’s rich cultural tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir William Wallace Memorial
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Holborn Viaduct
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London City wall
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London City Wall - Bastion 14
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Ludgate Circus
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Fleet St
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Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Marx Memorial Library & Workers School
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Well Court
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Discover Well Court, a captivating Victorian alley blending historic charm and modern life in the heart of London’s City.
Museum of the Order of Saint John
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St John's Gate
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Discover the medieval gateway of St John's Gate, home to the Knights Hospitaller and the origins of St John Ambulance in historic Clerkenwell.
St. Peter's Italian Catholic Church
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The Chocolate Cocktail Club
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Islington Museum
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Explore Islington’s rich local history and vibrant community stories in this engaging, accessible museum beneath Finsbury Library.
Exmouth Market
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Discover Exmouth Market, London’s vibrant street of diverse cuisines, historic charm, and lively cultural spirit in the heart of Clerkenwell.
Hatton Garden
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The Charterhouse
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Bleeding Heart Yard
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Smithfield Market
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London dragon
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Essential places to dine
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St. John
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Madison
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Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Ikoyi Restaurant
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Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
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Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
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Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Balthazar
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Sea Containers Restaurant
1.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.7 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
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A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
Circus
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Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
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Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Gifts
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Pop Up Luxury Shop
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Barbican Shop
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Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
not just a shop
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Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Twinings - The Strand
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One New Change
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The Old Curiosity Shop
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Camden Passage, Islington
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The Brunswick Centre
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The Store X
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Fancy That of London
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The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Old Fountain
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Princess Louise
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Fitz's Russell Sq.
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Roxy
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The Hoxton Pony
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Trafik
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The Ivy Club
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La Capannina Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Historic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
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
