The Cockpit has long been the site of unique and historic places; although it’s most famously known as one of Shakespeare’s former homes.
It also just recently found itself named one of the best pubs in England by The Telegraph and writer Will Hawkes, so you know a visit was in order.
A grade II listed building, The Cockpit was formerly known as “The Cock Pit” (drastically different, we know) and later “The Three Castles”, it can be found hidden in-between the winding back streets on St Andrew’s Hill, next to Ireland Yard.
It dates back to the 1800s – anywhere from 1825 to 1860 we’ve seen – although evidence suggests there’s been a pub there since at least the 16th century. And yes, the name is very literal, it was once known for cockfights.
It’s known that Shakespeare had a home in the area, although whether this is the exact location of his home remains questionable, but it was almost certainly within a stone’s throw of the location.
The word is he paid a steep £140 for his home, although at just around £50,000 in 2025, that certainly seems like a bargain. And for keen readers of The Bard you may just recognise the pub’s name from Henry V…
Plaque highlighting the location of Shakespeare's Gatehouse © City of London Corporation
I would describe The Cockpit as a pub’s pub. You’ll notice we didn’t take photos of the interior, and frankly, it’s because it just didn’t fit the vibe!
We were immediately greeted upon entering the door to the narrow space. It’s intimate, and you could tell that this pub has its fair share of regulars, and we didn’t want to interrupt their drinks by pulling out a camera.
There are more beers than food here, which shouldn’t surprise anyone. The head of the pub kindly recommended nearby venues to us when we enquired about what was good to eat. Very much giving that community spirit.
The front of the Cockpit Pub
In terms of decoration, it’s relatively simple and tasteful, nothing too distracting in the space, it’s very much about enjoying the banter, the yarns, the tall tales, etc. Red carpets, wood panelling, those beautiful but awkward to open glass doors… we’ve all been somewhere like this.
That said, I doubt you’ve been to a pub with quite so many cockerel decorations. And if you happen to be visiting St Paul’s, it’s less than five minutes away, perfect to stop by for a quick pint.
Now, would we personally call it the best pub in the Square Mile? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a Sunday Roast or the football? Probably not. But if you just want a tall glass and a long conversation, it’s certainly in contention.
Practical info
You can venture down and find the Cockpit pub at 7 St Andrew’s Hill, City of London, London EC4V 5BY.