The Ten Bells - Spitalfields - Pub Reviews

The Ten Bells’ Victorian corner facade stands proudly beneath the towering spire of Christ Church on Commercial Street. The Ten Bells is a historic East End pub (located at 84 Commercial Street, London E1 6LY) renowned for its rich Victorian character and notorious connection to the Jack the Ripper story. This Grade II-listed tavern has existed in one guise or another since the mid-18th century and retains many original features – from its ornate tiled interior walls to a famous mural commemorating Spitalfields’ weaving heritage. Stepping inside almost feels like stepping back in time, yet the pub adeptly blends old-world charm with modern hospitality. It’s a popular watering hole for local office workers, Spitalfields market-goers, and curious tourists alike, drawn by its well-kept ales, hearty food, and the palpable sense of East London history in the air. The pub holds a solid customer rating (around 4.0/5.0), reflecting generally positive feedback on its atmosphere, drinks, and character. Opening hours are 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday through Wednesday, with extended late-night hours until 1:00 AM on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Ten Bells keeps things straightforward, focusing on its unique atmosphere rather than modern pub amusements. There is no on-site parking available (standard for central London), and you won’t find dartboards, pool tables, or a wall of big-screen TVs for sports here. In fact, the pub largely eschews those typical pub games and electronic distractions, maintaining an environment oriented more toward conversation and character. Instead, the “entertainment” comes from the pub’s history and lively social scene itself. Patrons often find themselves absorbed in the surroundings – examining old photographs on the walls or discussing the pub’s lore – rather than staring at screens or playing bar games.

One distinctive aspect of The Ten Bells is its multi-level layout. The pub spans three floors, including an upstairs cocktail bar that offers an alternative setting to the bustling main bar. You can wander up to the first-floor lounge for a change of scene: it’s a more intimate space with its own bar, perfect for those seeking a quieter corner or a curated cocktail away from the clamour below. (This upstairs was historically reopened in 2010 as part of a refurbishment, adding a new dimension to the pub’s offerings.) There’s even a smaller second upper floor occasionally used for private functions or overflow on busy nights. Overall, while The Ten Bells lacks modern pub games or televised sports, it compensates with a culturally rich atmosphere and the kind of authentic Victorian pub vibe that you simply can’t manufacture. In essence, the pub itself is the entertainment – a place where the ambience and conversation are the main attractions.

Food on Offer

The food menu at The Ten Bells leans into hearty British pub fare with a modern touch. It’s a concise selection, but it covers the classics that pair well with a pint. Think of comforting staples like a grass-fed beef burger in a brioche bun, crispy fish and chips, or even some shareable bar snacks – unpretentious comfort foods that hit the spot after a day exploring the city. There are usually vegetarian and vegan choices available too (for example, a tasty plant-based burger or a fresh salad), ensuring most visitors will find something to their liking. While the menu isn’t vast, the kitchen occasionally rolls out seasonal specials or twists on traditional dishes, keeping things interesting for regulars. The overall focus is on flavour and warmth rather than haute cuisine, and it aligns well with the pub’s historic, no-nonsense character. You can munch on your meal in the dim glow of antique light fixtures and feel right at home.

One item that has garnered attention here is the sausage roll, a classic pub snack that The Ten Bells has embraced as something of a signature offering. Their version evokes traditional East End fare – a generous roll of seasoned sausage meat wrapped in golden, flaky pastry – and it often arrives at the bar piping hot from the oven. It’s the kind of savoury bite that pairs perfectly with a pint of ale. Opinions on the sausage rolls can be mixed, though: many patrons rave about them as a must-try, praising the rich, nostalgic flavour, while others might shrug and say they’re simply decent pub grub. This split response actually speaks to The Ten Bells’ culinary approach, which balances tradition and innovation. They’re not aiming to be a gourmet gastropub, but they do put care into pub favourites and aren’t afraid to add a little twist or extra heartiness. In sum, you can expect well-executed pub classics here – the kind of food that fills your belly and complements your beer. It’s honest fare served in an honest pub, and for most visitors, that’s more than enough to leave satisfied.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will be happy with the selection at The Ten Bells, which reflects a dedication to quality brews and a thoughtful range of styles. The pub provides an impressive line-up of beers on tap, highlighting both beloved London standards and craft offerings. For instance, you’ll find well-known local names like Camden Hells lager pouring alongside brews from smaller craft outfits. (In fact, The Ten Bells is operated by The London Beer Factory brewery, so you can often enjoy their creations here – a super refreshing Bright Side lager or the dry-hopped Parasol pale, to name a couple.) Traditionalists can usually get a proper pint of ale; it wouldn’t be surprising to spot a hand-pumped cask ale from a regional microbrewery or a staple like Sharp’s Doom Bar making an appearance. At the same time, more adventurous beer drinkers can sample rotating guest taps, which might include anything from a trendy New England IPA to a rich seasonal stout. On any given visit, there’s something for every palate – in total maybe a dozen or more draught options, spanning crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, malty ales, and even a cider or two for good measure.

Importantly, the pub takes good care of its beer. The bartenders pour each pint properly with a nice head, and the cask ales (when available) are maintained in prime condition – a fact noted by many a real ale fan. In my experience, the beer tasted fresh, indicating the lines are cleaned regularly and the staff know how to store and handle their kegs. Speaking of the staff, they are quite knowledgeable about what’s on tap and can readily offer recommendations. If you’re unsure which brew to try, don’t hesitate to ask – they might let you taste a sip or will describe the flavour profiles (for example, guiding a newcomer toward a fruity IPA versus a toasty bitter based on your preferences). This kind of expertise makes exploring the menu fun. And if beer isn’t your drink of choice, The Ten Bells still has you covered. The upstairs cocktail bar boasts an extensive cocktail menu, featuring both classics and inventive house creations, so you can easily opt for a well-made Old Fashioned or perhaps their popular Banana Old Fashioned or a chilli-and-cucumber margarita for a spicy kick. There’s also a curated selection of wines and the usual spirits behind the bar. But it’s those well-kept ales and eclectic taps that truly shine here, underscoring the pub’s commitment to catering to casual drinkers and beer aficionados alike.

Price Range & Value

By London standards, The Ten Bells falls into a reasonable mid-range (££) price category. A visit here won’t break the bank, especially considering the location and the historical ambiance on offer. Prices for drinks are about what you’d expect in this part of the city: roughly £5–£6 for a pint of standard beer (with craft or higher ABV beers sometimes a bit more), and around £10–£12 for a crafted cocktail upstairs. These are pretty typical rates for central/East London, and notably, the pub isn’t adding an extra “tourist tax” despite its fame – regulars still find it affordable to make this a go-to spot. As for food, most main dishes sit in the low-to-mid-teens in pounds. For example, a hearty burger with chips is about £11–£13, and even if you add a side or starter, you’re likely looking at £15–£20 per person for a filling meal. Lighter bites and snacks (like that sausage roll or a Scotch egg) are just a few pounds each. In broad terms, the food ranges £15–£25 per head depending on appetite, and drinks about £5–£10 each, which aligns with the pub’s 4.0/5.0 rating – people generally feel the quality matches the cost.

Value for money is a consistent theme in customer feedback. You get what you pay for – in a good way. Portions are satisfying, ingredients are fresh, and the pints are well looked after. There aren’t many gimmicks or unwelcome surprises here; it’s honest pub pricing. Service charge isn’t tacked on automatically when you order at the bar (which is the norm here), and any tipping is left to your discretion. The sense is that you’re paying for both your pint and a bit of history – and most folks are quite okay with that. Considering you could be sipping a beer in a pub that’s over 250 years old, the prices feel justified. Many patrons comment that a visit to The Ten Bells feels like money well spent, not just for the food and drink, but for the overall experience of enjoying them in such an iconic setting. In summary, while you might find slightly cheaper pints in a no-frills chain pub or further out in the suburbs, the consensus is that The Ten Bells offers a satisfying experience at a fair price point. A hearty meal plus a quality ale here comes with intangible extras (ambience, history, location) that make it a solid value for the spend.

Customer Service

Walk into The Ten Bells and you’ll likely be greeted with a scene of amiable bustle – it’s the kind of place where the staff are used to a crowd and generally handle it with a smile. Many patrons praise the knowledgeable bartenders and their evident passion for what they serve. It’s not unusual to have a bartender engage you in a quick, friendly chat about the latest guest beer on tap or offer their personal favourite cocktail suggestion if you seem indecisive. This knowledgeable and welcoming approach helps newcomers feel at ease, even in a pub that can get quite busy. When it’s not too packed, staff members have been known to share a bit of the pub’s history or point out something interesting in the decor (they know people are curious about those Jack the Ripper connections!). There’s a palpable sense of pride among the team about working in such a famous venue, and that often translates into them being attentive and helpful in their service.

That said, feedback on service at The Ten Bells isn’t uniformly glowing – it’s generally good, but there have been a few bumps noted. Some patrons have reported less friendly encounters, usually relating to management or the enforcement of pub policies. For example, the pub has certain rules (common in many London pubs) regarding under-18s or children on the premises, especially in the evenings, and a couple of visitors felt these rules were communicated a bit brusquely by a manager. In other instances, during extremely busy periods, the staff’s patience can wear thin – a rare sharp word or rushed interaction has been mentioned in reviews, though it’s often followed by understanding that the pub was heaving with customers at the time. These instances appear to be the exception rather than the rule. On the whole, the day-to-day service is efficient and cordial. Empty glasses don’t linger long on tables, and despite the sometimes intense crowd, the bartenders keep their cool and the queues moving. If you visit during a calmer afternoon, you might even get into a pleasant conversation about the local area or the beers with a staff member. During peak hours, expect service to be swift and a touch transactional (out of necessity), but still polite.

In summary, customer service at The Ten Bells is competent and generally warm, with just the occasional hiccup. Many people leave complimenting the staff’s friendliness and the fact that even in a centuries-old pub that attracts tourists, you’re treated like a regular. The few criticisms suggest that consistency could be improved – basically ensuring every patron gets that same level of welcome – but it’s worth noting that pubs, like any busy venue, can have their off-nights. If you do experience any stiffness, it’s likely circumstantial. Most visitors, especially those who come at non-peak times, report that the staff contributed positively to their Ten Bells experience, whether through excellent drink recommendations or just a nice bit of banter at the bar. With a little more evenness in approach (perhaps smoothing out those rare managerial rough edges), the service here would be as storied an asset as the pub itself.

Events & Special Nights

True to its character, The Ten Bells doesn’t rely heavily on gimmicky theme nights or regular scheduled events to draw a crowd – the historical allure and daily buzz tend to be enough. Unlike some pubs, you won’t find a weekly quiz night or live music every Friday on the calendar. However, the venue certainly knows how to cater to special occasions and private events. In fact, The Ten Bells is a popular spot for private hire gatherings. With its three distinct floors and atmospheric nooks, the pub can accommodate birthday parties, corporate meet-ups, or other celebrations in a memorable setting. Guests who book a section (often an upper floor or the upstairs bar) get the charm of the venue essentially to themselves for the night, and the feedback on these private events is usually great – people love the idea of having such a storied pub as the backdrop for their festivities. The eclectic decor and historic ambiance provide an impressive, conversation-starting scene for any party. The staff are accustomed to coordinating these functions, ensuring that whether it’s a group of 10 or 50, the drinks keep flowing and everyone has a good time. So while you won’t see neon posters for karaoke nights here, The Ten Bells frequently plays host to engagement celebrations, leaving-dos, and other invite-only shindigs that take full advantage of its characterful space.

For the regular visitor, the lack of advertised pub-wide events doesn’t mean the Ten Bells is ever dull. On many evenings, especially towards the end of the week, the pub itself feels like an event. The energy is high, with a mix of locals and tourists chattering away – a kind of spontaneous camaraderie fills the air. Occasionally, the pub will embrace its unique heritage with one-off themed happenings. For example, around Halloween or significant Jack the Ripper anniversaries, there might be informal gatherings or a slight thematic twist (think staff in period costume or a special “Ripper Ale” on tap) that nod to the pub’s grisly claim to fame. Moreover, The Ten Bells is a fixture on the Jack the Ripper walking tour circuit, so you’ll often notice groups of intrigued tourists and a tour guide convening outside, using the pub as a storytelling backdrop. While that’s not an event the pub itself runs, it contributes to the sense that interesting things are always going on. Also, for major national events – say, a big World Cup football match or a royal celebration – the pub has been known to get into the spirit (even if it’s just by being packed with revellers before and after the event, since they don’t show it on TV inside).

In short, The Ten Bells doesn’t need a weekly pub quiz to make its mark. Its regular operation is engaging enough, and it offers flexibility for those who do want to create a special event within its walls. If you’re keen on organised entertainment, this might not be your go-to, but if you appreciate a lively pub that feels like an ongoing East End street party and historic salon rolled into one, The Ten Bells delivers that vibe nightly. And if you have something to celebrate, renting out a piece of this pub’s history for an evening is an experience your guests won’t soon forget.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Ten Bells – the moment you step through the doors, you’re surrounded by Victorian charm and a dash of East End grit. The interior is famous for its floor-to-ceiling Victorian tiling and the two large pictorial tile murals that dominate opposite corners of the pub. One mural, entitled “Spitalfields in Ye Olden Time – Visiting a Weaver’s Shop,” dates back to the late 19th century and depicts a wealthy family visiting a silk weaver, commemorating the area’s historic weaving industry. This original mural was created by the renowned ceramics firm W.B. Simpson & Sons, and it still gleams with vibrant colours after restoration – a true centrepiece that practically transports you to 1880s Spitalfields. On the other side, there’s a newer mural (added in 2010) titled “Spitalfields in Modern Times,” painted by artist Ian Harper, which cleverly mirrors the style of the old one but features contemporary local figures (including the artists Gilbert & George, who are neighbourhood icons). Together, these murals and the surrounding patterned tiles give the pub a uniquely ornate and historic aesthetic – it’s not often you see walls that tell a story. High, weathered ceilings and an antique wood bar (reportedly repositioned to the centre of the room during renovations to better show off the tiles) complete the scene. It can honestly take a few minutes to absorb all the details inside – faded Victorian advertisements, decorative mouldings, old Truman’s Brewery signs uncovered during refurbishment – it’s a feast for history lovers. One particularly striking (and some might say macabre) feature is a large board listing Jack the Ripper’s victims mounted on a wall, accompanied by Victorian newspaper clippings and illustrations about the murders. It’s a grim reminder of the pub’s infamous association, but it inevitably draws interest and sparks conversation among visitors. Despite these museum-worthy elements, the pub doesn’t feel like a museum – it’s lively and a bit rough-around-the-edges in the way a proper East End pub should be. The floors are scuffed from over a century of foot traffic, the dark wood bar bears the patina of thousands of pints slid across it, and there’s often classic rock or indie music playing at a conversational volume. The ambiance is candle-lit and cosy come evening (the phrase “bustling candle-lit East London boozer” is a perfect descriptor), with the light reflecting off those tiled walls to create a warm, almost sepia glow. In colder months, a heater or two might be glowing, and in summer, the doors are propped open to let in the sounds of Spitalfields. All in all, the atmosphere is steeped in character – you feel the history around you, but you also feel the current of daily life and good cheer that keeps the pub feeling very much alive.

The clientele here is as eclectic as the decor. The Ten Bells draws in a diverse crowd, which significantly contributes to its lively atmosphere. On a given night, you might find yourself standing at the bar next to a group of local office workers in suits, unwinding after work; at the same time, a cluster of trendy East End creatives (think beards, vintage jackets, and a couple of tote bags) might be laughing in the corner over craft beers. There are the history buffs and tourists, easy to spot with their cameras or guidebooks, ticking off a bucket-list pub, and often they’re mingling with curious Londoners who’ve popped in to show visiting friends a “proper pub with history.” Amazingly, all these different types seem to mix with ease. The vibe is welcoming and all-inclusive – nobody feels out of place whether they’re discussing the latest financial news or the ghost stories linked to the pub. The background music sets a pleasant tone without overpowering conversation; you’ll typically hear a rock ‘n’ roll classics playlist or some indie tunes (a nod to the pub’s slightly alternative spirit) but at a volume that sits beneath the chatter. As the evening progresses, the noise level naturally rises – it becomes a cheerful cacophony of clinking glasses, international accents, and East London slang all blending together. Yet it rarely tips into rowdy territory; there’s a mutual understanding that people come here to socialise and soak up the atmosphere, not to cause trouble. In fact, strangers striking up conversations is not uncommon. You might bond with someone over the unique beer you’re trying or the history on the walls – it’s that kind of place. Tourists often find locals surprisingly ready to share a bit of trivia or recommend other spots, and locals in turn enjoy the fresh perspective visitors bring. The overall mood is spirited and convivial, like a living room of London’s past and present where everyone’s invited.

In terms of layout and comfort, The Ten Bells is a classic corner pub and isn’t particularly large, especially on the main floor. The ground floor is essentially one open room with a roughly rectangular shape; a central bar counter allows service from all sides, which helps with crowd distribution. There are a handful of small wooden tables and stools around the perimeter and by the windows, but much of the space is for standing and mingling – a deliberate design choice that harks back to an era when packing the pub was the norm. On busy nights, it can indeed pack out; you’ll find people shoulder-to-shoulder around the bar, and a healthy overflow often spills just outside onto the pavement, pints in hand. (On a warm evening, you might even prefer to stand outside – the pub sits on a historic street corner under the glow of old gaslamp-style street lights, which only adds to the charm.) If you venture upstairs, the first floor cocktail bar offers a change of pace: it’s outfitted with a mix of vintage chairs, plus some plush sofas and dimmer lighting, giving it a speakeasy-meets-Victorian-parlor vibe. This area tends to be calmer – a refuge if the main bar is frenetic – and is sometimes only partially open (like on quieter afternoons or reserved for a private group). Another set of stairs leads up to a second upper floor which is more sparsely furnished and mainly used for private events or extra seating when the pub is extremely full. It has unique views of the surrounding streets and the church next door, which can be quite special if you get to sneak up there. Because of the building’s age and layout, cosiness is a defining feature – in quieter moments you can easily tuck into a corner and feel snug, but in peak times it can be a tight squeeze moving about. If you require a table, it’s best to arrive early in the day or not mind standing; many people simply lean against the bar or find a spot near one of the tiled walls to perch with their drink. The management has wisely preserved all those original alcoves and odd angles in the interior, which means there are little pockets of space that groups often claim. Some might see it as cramped, but many regulars see it as intimate – the kind of setting that encourages interactions. And despite the crowds, service somehow remains brisk; staff weave through collecting empties, and the wait at the bar for a refill is rarely as long as it looks like it should be. The lack of modern screens or machines means your eyes wander to the details – the etched glass panels above the bar, the old Truman’s Beer mirror – and that in itself contributes to a richer experience. Essentially, if you embrace the controlled chaos of a historic pub, you’ll find The Ten Bells comfortable in its own authentic way.

When it comes to accessibility, there are some challenges due to the pub’s historic nature. The main entrance has a small step up from street level (just a few inches), and the doorway, while not extremely narrow, might be a tight fit for a wheelchair without assistance. Once inside, the ground floor is all one level, which is a plus, but it can quickly become congested, which could make navigation with a wheelchair or stroller difficult when it’s busy. Unfortunately, there is no lift to the upper floors – accessing the cocktail lounge or any event upstairs requires climbing a steep, winding staircase that is original to the building. This obviously isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues. Additionally, the restrooms are located upstairs (a very common setup in older pubs), which means that even patrons on the ground floor will need to tackle a flight of stairs at some point. The management hasn’t advertised any fully accessible facilities, so if mobility is a concern, it may be best to plan accordingly (perhaps visit at a quieter time when staff can more easily assist, or limit the stay to what’s comfortable). On the bright side, public transport access is excellent (as detailed in the next section), so getting to and from the pub is easy without a car. For those arriving with prams or lots of luggage, it might be tricky to keep those inside during peak hours, simply due to space. The staff, however, are generally helpful – if they see someone who needs a hand, they’ll often come over (for instance, I observed a bartender help an older gentleman carry his drinks to a table, navigating the crowd for him). Also worth noting, The Ten Bells is dog-friendly. It’s not uncommon to see a well-behaved dog or two curled up under a table or enjoying a few head pats from strangers; the pub’s laid-back policy on pets adds to that community feel and homey atmosphere. In summary, while The Ten Bells might not score top marks for disability access or spacious seating, it offers an atmospheric, historic setting that many find well worth the minor inconveniences. It’s the kind of place where a little bit of jostling and climbing feels like part of the authentic experience of drinking in a true London original.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated in the heart of Spitalfields (East London’s vibrant historic district), The Ten Bells couldn’t be in a more fitting location. It’s on the corner of Commercial Street and Fournier Street – a spot it’s occupied in one form or another since the 18th century. Directly next door is Nicholas Hawksmoor’s Christ Church, Spitalfields, an imposing Baroque church that’s one of the area’s landmarks (in fact, the pub’s name “Ten Bells” originally referred to the church’s bells). This proximity means when you step outside the pub, you’re literally at the foot of a piece of London’s architectural heritage, and the church’s silhouette adds drama to the pub’s curbside scene at night. Across the street you’ll find Old Spitalfields Market, a bustling covered market that dates back to 1638 and today is a hotspot for fashion stalls, artisan goods, and street food. Many visitors pair a trip to the market with a pint at The Ten Bells – it’s a perfect one-two punch of Spitalfields history and contemporary culture. On Sundays especially, the area teems with market-goers, and The Ten Bells fills up with shoppers taking a break or locals enjoying the weekend scene.

Walk a few minutes north and you hit Brick Lane, famous for its curry houses, street art, vintage shops, and the Sunday UpMarket. Brick Lane has long been a cultural melting pot and remains one of London’s trendiest stretches – having The Ten Bells as your starting or ending point for a Brick Lane adventure is extremely convenient. You’re also only a short stroll from other attractions: the Truman Brewery complex, which often hosts events, food fairs, and art exhibits, is just around the corner; the Whitechapel Art Gallery (a renowned public gallery for contemporary art) is about a 10-minute walk away; and if you’re intrigued by the area’s darker history, many key Jack the Ripper sites are in the surrounding streets of Whitechapel. In fact, The Ten Bells is regularly featured on Jack the Ripper walking tours – it’s often either a meeting point or a highlight stop where guides regale tour groups with the pub’s connection to the murders. Being in Spitalfields, you’re also not far from Shoreditch nightlife (trendy bars and clubs lie just to the north) and the edge of London’s financial district (the City) to the south and west. This unique position means the pub draws people from all walks: City professionals, artists from Shoreditch, and tourists doing the East End circuit.

Accessibility to this location is excellent. Liverpool Street Station – one of London’s major transport hubs (serving multiple Underground lines, the Elizabeth Line, and national rail trains, including the Stansted Airport Express) – is roughly a 5-minute walk from The Ten Bells. Simply put, you can get here easily from almost anywhere in London or even directly from an airport or another city. The closest tube exit at Liverpool Street will have you emerge near Bishopsgate; from there it’s a straight walk east through Bishopsgate and into Commercial Street. There are also bus routes running along Commercial Street and Bishopsgate that stop within a stone’s throw of the pub (buses are frequent and connect to areas like London Bridge, Kings Cross, Waterloo, etc.). Another nearby station is Aldgate East (serving the District and Hammersmith & City lines), which is about a 7-8 minute walk, convenient if you’re coming from the Tower of London direction or the western end of Whitechapel. For those exploring on foot, the location is ideal as a meeting point – it’s on the fringe of central London, roughly equidistant from the tourist-heavy West End and the more easterly neighbourhoods.

If you’re considering driving, be aware that this is central London so traffic and parking are tough. There’s no dedicated parking for the pub, and street parking in Spitalfields is extremely limited (and often not available due to restrictions). There are a few commercial car parks in the vicinity (such as near Brick Lane or by Shoreditch High Street) but they can be expensive. Luckily, with public transport so robust, driving isn’t necessary. Cyclists will find bike lanes on some nearby streets and a Santander Cycles bike-share docking station not far away (at Shoreditch High Street or by Spitalfields Market), so biking is also a viable option if you’re comfortable cycling in the city.

As for nearby attractions to complement your pub visit, you have plenty of choices. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, Columbia Road Flower Market (a famous outdoor flower market) is a pleasant 15-minute walk away through Shoreditch – a great morning activity before a Sunday roast or pint. Petticoat Lane Market (known for clothing bargains) is a few blocks south, harking back to the area’s market heritage. For history enthusiasts, Dennis Severs’ House on Folgate Street (essentially across Spitalfields Market) is a fascinating “living museum” that recreates life in an 18th-century Huguenot silk weaver’s house – quite relevant given The Ten Bells’ weavers’ mural and the Huguenot history of Spitalfields. And of course, being so close to the City means landmarks like the Tower of London or Tower Bridge are just a short bus or tube ride (or a longer walk) away to the south. In essence, The Ten Bells sits amid one of London’s most interesting quarters: you can immerse yourself in East End culture, food, art, and history all within a few blocks. For many, the pub itself is a highlight of the area – a living link between all these elements. If you’re coming from central tourist spots, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary; and if you’re staying in the Shoreditch/Spitalfields area, it may well become your local haunt during your visit.

Overall Impression

The Ten Bells offers a truly unique pub experience, seamlessly combining the best of London’s past with the vibrancy of its present. In a city filled with historic pubs, this one still manages to stand out. There’s an undeniable thrill to enjoying a drink in a place where centuries of East Enders have done the same – where the very walls are adorned with the stories of the neighbourhood. Few pubs allow you to sip a modern craft beer while literally leaning on Victorian tiles and pondering infamous 19th-century happenings. Yet despite this almost museum-like pedigree, The Ten Bells is anything but stuffy or old-fashioned in its hospitality. It’s a lively, unpretentious, and thoroughly enjoyable spot to spend time, whether you’re there for one pint or an entire evening. The pub has character in spades: from the moment you see its traditionally painted sign hanging on the corner (a bit weather-worn, as it should be) and step onto its tiled floors, you feel you’re in for more than just a drink – you’re getting an experience. It’s the kind of place where a casual stop can turn into an impromptu history lesson or a friendly chat with a stranger, and that’s the magic of it.

Of course, like any establishment with a long legacy and big popularity, The Ten Bells isn’t without a few quirks. Its charm comes partly from its cosiness, which, in practical terms, means it can get very crowded and a little chaotic during peak times. If you’re someone who prefers quiet, spacious pubs, you’ll need to time your visit carefully (weekday afternoons are your friend) or brace yourself for the bustle. The pub doesn’t offer the modern comforts some might expect – there are no widescreen TVs for sports, no extensive cocktail mixology show on the main floor (that’s upstairs), and no table service delivering nachos to you while you watch the game. But that’s kind of the point: The Ten Bells isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It knows what it is – a historic, character-rich pub – and it plays that role confidently. The few criticisms that pop up (occasional brusque service moments, tricky accessibility, etc.) are relatively minor in the grand scheme and, importantly, seem to be things the management can work on. They don’t overshadow the overwhelmingly positive aspects of the pub, but it’s good for prospective visitors to be aware: temper your expectations in terms of comfort and service to typical pub standards, and then prepare to be delighted by all the intangibles.

Most people walk away from The Ten Bells with a story to tell and a desire to return. It’s a must-visit for pub enthusiasts and a memorable stop for anyone interested in London’s social history. The pub encapsulates the spirit of Spitalfields – resilient, welcoming, a bit mysterious, and very proud of its roots. Whether you come for the Jack the Ripper lore, the craft beers, the architectural beauty, or just because your friend said “you have to check this place out,” you’ll find a lot to love. Standing there with your drink, amidst the chatter and clink in a room that looks frozen in Victorian time, you can’t help but feel connected to the generations of patrons before you. And yet, you’re also very much a part of its present – contributing your own laughter or quiet reflections to the ambiance. In a rapidly changing city, The Ten Bells is a reassuring constant, proving that a great pub doesn’t fade away – it only accumulates more character. I would wholeheartedly recommend a visit to The Ten Bells for anyone seeking an authentic London pub experience. Embrace the crowds, soak in the history, and enjoy a pint where legend and local life intertwine. It’s an experience that truly encapsulates what’s special about London’s pub culture, leaving you with the feeling that you’ve not just had a drink, but participated in a little slice of London’s living history.