00:00The Tipperary, located at 66 Fleet Street, is one of London's oldest and most iconic Irish pubs.
00:08Originally opened in 1605 as the Boar's Head, it survived the Great Fire of London thanks to its iconic sturdy stone and brick construction.
00:18Over the centuries, it became a hub for journalists, tradespeople and lawyers from nearby Fleet Street, which was once the heart of British journalism.
00:30In 1895, Dublin's JG Mooney & Co bought the pub, transforming it into Mooney's Irish house and adding the famous shamrock mosaic tiles and distinctive step that still welcomes visitors to this day.
00:49The pub took on the name The Tipperary around 1968, carrying on a proud tradition as one of London's oldest Irish pubs and famously one of the first places in London to serve Guinness.
01:06Though some do debate that claim, the Guinness is still well and truly served today.
01:11Like many historic pubs, The Tipperary faced challenges in recent years.
01:16It closed in 2020 due to the pandemic and threats from redevelopment, but a successful community campaign saved it.
01:24In March of 2024, after careful restoration led by property developer Dominius, the pub reopened with its original green facade, polished wood, panelling and classic Guinness taps fully restored.
01:42Now, James Tunbridge, chairman of the City of London Corporation Licensing Committee, has emphasised the importance of protecting such places like old Irish pubs.
01:56The City of London is more than a place to work, it's a place to socialise and build friendships, and that is why the protection of pubs like The Tipperary are an asset to both the community value and historic significance, and it's a key priority for the City Corporation.
02:15Those were the words spoken by him.
02:18Shavran Joshi, chairman of the City of London's Corporation Planning and Transportation Committee, added that they were delighted to see The Tipperary back open for city workers and visitors to enjoy.
02:33The pub has always been a vital asset to the City of London, and it continues to play an important role in making The Square Mile an attractive place to develop.
02:44Walking through its green doors is now stepping into over 400 years of London's social and cultural story.
02:53Now, obviously, there are many old Irish pubs across the city that are also just as special.
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