The Crosse Keys
Cocktail Bar | London | England | United Kingdom
The cocktail bar "The Crosse Keys" in London is a large, impressive pub that belongs to the well-known J D Wetherspoon chain and is located in the heart of the financial district, the so-called City of London. It is housed in a former bank building of the Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation, designed and opened in 1913 by the architect W. Campbell Jones. The name of the pub is reminiscent of a historic inn of the same name that stood nearby since the 1550s, with its origins traced back to the "Keys of Heaven," traditionally associated with Saint Peter. This original "Crosse Keys" was a significant coaching inn used by Shakespeare's theater troupe, the Chamberlain's Men, for performances, before being destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. It was later rebuilt, burned down again in 1734, and rebuilt once more, becoming a bustling hub for over 40 coaches daily in the early 19th century.
The current building impresses with its architecture: high coffered ceilings, marble columns, and a Victorian Baroque facade give it a majestic atmosphere, reminding of its past as a bank. The interior is huge – large enough to accommodate a fleet of double-decker buses – and offers a variety of seating, including tables in the main room and quieter alcoves in a balcony area at the back, from where one can observe the hustle and bustle below. This size is a great advantage in the busy City, where space is often limited, making it a place where one can find a seat even during peak times. The decor is functional but with a touch of historical charm, with old wooden barrels on the ceiling recalling the time of beer storage.
The drinks offering is typical of Wetherspoon pubs: an impressive selection of real ales, regularly expanded at beer festivals – such as the 12-day event in spring with up to 30 different ales. Favorites include craft beers like Punk IPA or Theakston's Old Peculiar, as well as international options like Italian Poretti. Cocktails play a minor role but are available, including simple classics that can be quickly served – a convenient offering in a pub designed for high volumes of visitors. The offering is complemented by wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages, with prices remarkably affordable for central London standards. Many dishes also include a drink in the price, making the visit even more attractive.
Culinarily, The Crosse Keys offers an extensive menu of traditional British pub dishes. Popular options include Fish and Chips, Pies like Steak & Ale, and Burgers served in generous portions. There are also lighter alternatives like salads, as well as vegetarian and vegan options to cater to a wide audience. The kitchen is designed for speed and consistency, with solid quality without claiming gourmet status. Special promotions like "Steak Tuesday" or "Curry Thursday" offer affordable combinations of food and drink that are popular with regulars. The breakfast offering includes classics like a full English breakfast, often available for less than £5.
The atmosphere at The Crosse Keys is lively and varies greatly depending on the time of day. During the week, the pub is a meeting point for bankers and office workers from the City who enjoy a pint after work – especially on Fridays, it can get extremely crowded, with long queues at the bar and a high noise level. On weekends, it becomes quieter and attracts more tourists who take advantage of the proximity to sights like Leadenhall Market or St. Paul's Cathedral. The audience is mixed: suits dominate on weekdays, while families and visitors prevail on weekends. Children are welcome, and ordering is done classicall...
