The Seven Stars

Photos and First Impressions

Streetside View

View from Across Carey Street

The Bar

The General

Set for Fine Dining

Behind the Scenes

Chronicling from the Barstool

 

This is easily among my favorites, and for a variety of reasons. First, it’s among the oldest pubs in London. While there are others that were founded prior to 1602, most aren't in the same building. Not so with the Seven Stars. It was one of the few wooden structures in central London to survive the Great Fire.

 

Everything is worn and the floor never feels exactly level in any one spot. The walls are adorned with old photographs and posters, many of them commemorating events or individuals associated with the pub itself, so it feels genuine rather than kitschy. And I love the gaudy, cheap-as-shit table coverings. It feels like a half-drunk bartender just bought the cheapest thing available two stores over. There’s a sense that they don’t take themselves too seriously, which is sadly the case with many of the older establishments. It just feels comfortable.

 

To continue that thought, consider the ratter they “employ.” This black cat, known simply as “The General,” just patrols the pub sporting a very chic ruff. He’s a pretty friendly fellow, though I suppose I would be if too if I had his cushy job.

 

Adding to all that, the atmosphere and clientele are wonderful. I was there in the early afternoon, and things were fairly quiet. Most of the patrons were eccentric pensioners, all personable and just quirky enough that one might call them “characters.” They were all clearly regulars, as I seemed to be the only stranger among them. Nevertheless, they—along with the staff—were more than happy to engage in some small talk with their random American guest.

 

Apparently, after business hours, the Seven Stars serves as a common hangout for lawyers—at least since 1882, when the Royal Courts of Justice opened a block away. Not exactly sad I missed that happy hour, but I do appreciate the comradery the pub seems to foster, even after 400+ years of operation.

 

Also in the pub’s founding year of 1602…

• Elizabeth I rules England.
• Dutch East India Co. founded.
• Bartholomew Gosnold claims Cape Cod for England.
• William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night debuts.
• Oxford University’s Bodleian Library opens.

On Draught

 

Ghost Ship Citrus Pale Ale

Adnams Southwold

4.5% ABV

 

This one reminds me of the session IPAs and APAs common back in the states. It’s very close to Terrapin’s Recreation Ale to my pallet. Very refreshing and flavorful.