The White Hart, Whitechapel: A Historic London Pub with Dark Mystique
Historic Whitechapel pub blending centuries-old charm with Jack the Ripper lore and vibrant East London culture.
The White Hart at 89 Whitechapel High Street is one of London's oldest surviving pubs, dating back to at least 1721. Renowned for its rich history and close ties to the infamous Jack the Ripper murders, it retains much of its 19th-century character, including a Tudor-style interior and period features. The pub offers a traditional yet lively atmosphere with a menu featuring British and Thai dishes, making it a fascinating blend of heritage and contemporary East London culture.
A brief summary to The White Hart
- 89 Whitechapel High St, London, E1 7RA, GB
- +442072471546
- 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-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter atmosphere to appreciate the historic interior and artwork.
- Try the pub’s unique Thai dishes alongside traditional British fare for a taste of East London's multicultural vibe.
- Explore the nearby George Yard and Gunthorpe Street to connect with the Jack the Ripper history surrounding the pub.
- Check out the upstairs room for live music events or private hire opportunities.
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 London Underground to Aldgate East station, approximately a 5-minute walk from The White Hart. The station is served by the District and Hammersmith & City lines, with trains running frequently. A single journey fare typically ranges from £2.50 to £4.90 depending on peak times and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Whitechapel High Street, including routes 25, 205, and 254. Bus frequency varies but generally runs every 10-15 minutes during the day. A standard Oyster or contactless payment fare applies, usually around £1.75 per trip.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at 89 Whitechapel High Street. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £20 depending on distance and demand.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to The White Hart offers a chance to soak in the historic Whitechapel surroundings. The terrain is flat and accessible, with walking times ranging from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
The White Hart location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The White Hart
Enduring Legacy on Whitechapel High Street
The White Hart stands as the sole long-standing pub on the north side of Whitechapel High Street, with claims of establishment dating to 1721. Though the exact founding date is uncertain, records confirm its existence by 1723. The current building largely dates from the 19th century, with significant rebuilding in 1774 and later alterations in the 1830s and early 20th century. Its façade, once adorned with Corinthian pilasters, reflects Victorian-era styling, while the interior showcases a Brewers’ Tudor design featuring dark-stained wood panelling and a distinctive leaded-glass roof light, evoking a historic pub ambiance preserved through decades of change.Jack the Ripper Connections and Local Lore
The White Hart is deeply entwined with the grim history of the Jack the Ripper murders of 1888. Notably, sex worker Martha Tabram, considered by some as the Ripper’s first victim, had her last drink here before her murder nearby. The pub’s basement once housed a barber shop run by Severin Klosowski, alias George Chapman, a prime suspect in the Ripper case who later was convicted of poisoning three wives. This dark association is commemorated within the pub through murals and plaques, adding a chilling layer to its historic character and drawing visitors intrigued by East London's notorious past.Architectural and Interior Features
Despite alterations in the 1930s and 1960s, The White Hart retains much of its traditional layout with a public bar at the front and a saloon bar to the rear. The interior’s Tudor-style panelling and period art create an atmospheric setting that transports visitors back to Victorian London. The rear yard, once an open space, has been covered and designated as a smokers’ area. Upstairs, the pub offers a space for music performances and private events, maintaining its role as a community hub while preserving its historic charm.Contemporary Experience and Offerings
Today, The White Hart operates as a free house serving a mix of traditional British fare and Thai cuisine, reflecting the multicultural fabric of modern East London. It offers a relaxed yet characterful atmosphere popular with locals and visitors alike. The pub hosts weekly quizzes and private functions upstairs, blending historic ambiance with contemporary social life. Its location near Whitechapel station and proximity to landmarks like the Whitechapel Gallery and Tower of London make it a vibrant stop for those exploring the area.Preservation Amid Urban Change
The White Hart has witnessed Whitechapel’s transformation over centuries, surviving urban redevelopment and social shifts. It remains a rare architectural and cultural survivor from the 18th and 19th centuries in a district once notorious for poverty and crime. The pub’s preservation of historic elements alongside modern hospitality exemplifies the layered history of East London, offering a tangible link to the past amid the city’s ongoing evolution.Atmosphere and Cultural Significance
Stepping inside The White Hart, one encounters a unique blend of eerie historical resonance and lively pub culture. The dim lighting, period décor, and evocative artwork create a mood that is both somber and inviting. The pub’s association with one of history’s most infamous unsolved mysteries adds a compelling narrative, making it a destination not only for a pint but also for immersion in London’s rich and complex heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Casual
- Lively
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
