Hoop & Grapes, Aldgate, EC3

A genuinely old building with a modern extension to the rear that has used old beams from other buildings to maintain some sort of architectural consistency. There are some nice old chairs (or reproduction - I'm no expert) and slightly rougher tables. There were seven beers on the bar at the time of my visit - possibly the most I'd seen in a Nicholsons pub this year - and my half of Hophead was in good condition. I liked it here - apart from the background music. Date of visit: 17th March 2022

Historic and wonky wooden framed exterior which (just) survived the Great Fire of London. This gives way to a long and narrow interior which retains a bit of (injected) character with mid-range decor, nothing too offensive. There are a number of discrete drinking areas including a large glassed paned quasi-booth, which are welcome. Split in two most of the way by a supporting wall, the bar is to the rear left and sported a good number of ales (8?) with a selection which befitted the pub’s current status as a Nicholsons. My Fyne Ales Jarl was decent (NBSS 3). A quick mention of the impressive subterranean toilets, which were like something out of an episode of Knightmare. It's a fair bet for the area and I’d have no problem returning.

The best place to appreciate the age of this pub is from the front entrance where the very well worn steps and distorted ,sloping front window attest to many centuries of use.Inside it's all rather Nicholson's chain pub,but the front section with a bench seat below said window is by far the calmest spot.The interior is long and thin,with a side opening for a long bar,while opposite a glazed dividing panel creates a mini snug below a sloping glazed roof light.At the rear is a wait to be seated dining area,with Fish House wall sign indicating the menu bias.However bar snacks can be consumed anywhere else in the interior,at what looked like reasonable prices. Sadly the chain vibe is never far away and the muzak was much too loud and the bar was staffed with an inexperienced crew who took no notice of how long someone may have been waiting for service. However the ale selection was decent on my trip with Nicholsons Pale,Hogs Back TEA,Doom Bar,London Pride ,Sharps Atlantic,Purity Bunny Hop,Siren Broken Dream (on top form) and a real cider from the 8 pumps. It's worth a squint ,plus real ale outlets close to Aldgate are limited but not quiet enough to justify a long session here despite some historic interest.