The Cockpit, London: Former Cockpit Transformed
The Cockpit is a historic pub on St Andrew's Hill in London.
This pub was built around 1860, but there’s been a pub on the site since at least the 16th century.
Once upon a time, the Cockpit served its literal purpose – as a venue for cockfighting.
This barbaric spectacle, where male chickens battled until death while spectators placed hefty bets, captivated England until its prohibition in 1835.
Audiences would gather in the gallery above the Cockpit, now off-limits to spectators, to maintain a safe distance from the chaos of feathers and blood, preserving the cleanliness of their attire.
Coincidentally, Shakespeare employed the term "Cockpit" in Henry V to depict the vicinity surrounding a theater's stage.
Adding to this intrigue, reports suggest a curious connection between this obscure pub and the enigmatic bard himself.
The Cockpit stands on the approximate location where Shakespeare purportedly purchased a house for the considerable sum of £140.
Evidence, including a plaque outside the establishment, suggests its historical significance.
This revelation is particularly thrilling considering the limited knowledge we possess about the iconic playwright.
Perhaps the pub's previous life as a cockpit has influenced its peculiar layout, with most seats arranged in a semi-circle facing the bar.
Surprisingly, this arrangement seems to harmonise well.
The classic interior, featuring red carpets and wooden paneling, is enhanced by glass doors and ample windows, creating an inviting, open atmosphere.
What truly sets the Cockpit apart is its warm, familial ambiance – patrons in work attire casually leaning against the bar, engaging in lively conversations with the approachable landlady as if they were lifelong friends.
Someone who recently visited the pub said: “Old school and proper pub. I love the carpet and the vibe of this place. I don't live in London but I have visited this pub three times over the last six months.
”I go to the pub to have a few drinks, not to sit down and dine so this is a place for me. Upon my last visit, they had three hand-pulled ales on. All good quality. I really recommend this place for any pub aficionado.”
Another person added: “But of a step back in time, no frills, no modern makeover, maybe a tad tatty to some. But not me, just how I like a boozer and of course it's fascinating history.
”Can just imagine how it was back in the day, a cauldron of rowdiness during the cock fights no doubt. Bet there were plenty of fights.”
If you’d like to visit, the address is: Gateforth Street, London NW8 8EH.
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