Formerly the Jerusalem Tavern, renamed The Holy Tavern in 2022 but still operating from the same tiny, wonky-floored building on Britton Street that dates to the 1720s and feels like it has been pouring beer for every one of those years. No longer owned by St Peter's Brewery but still serving their Suffolk ales alongside an expanded selection. The space is genuinely old — low ceilings, crooked timber, mismatched furniture — and Clerkenwell provides the context: the butchers of Smithfield, the watchmakers of old Clerkenwell, and the particular character of a neighbourhood that has been working-class, then forgotten, then rediscovered.
Location
Clerkenwell, London
Map
Insider Intel
St Peter's ales remain on tap alongside an expanded beer selection — the staff know what's pouring well. The Best Bitter is the reliable standard. This is a beer pub, so wine and cocktails are beside the point.
Afternoon, before the post-work crowd arrives. The pub is genuinely small, so peak hours mean standing shoulder-to-shoulder. Lunchtime on a weekday is the secret window — Clerkenwell workers who know fill the tables, but there's usually room.
Tiny — perhaps 40 capacity, and that's generous. Britton Street, Clerkenwell, between Farringdon and Barbican tubes. Renamed from Jerusalem Tavern in 2022. St Peter's ales still served alongside others. The building dates to the 1720s and the floor proves it. Cash and cards. No food, or limited snacks. Arrive before 5pm or accept that you're standing.