Cloth Cornhill - Update on former "Simpsons Tavern"

(Historic Research | A watercolour painting of former “Simpson’s Tavern” by William Luker circa. 19th Century (1895).

It’s official – the historic Cornhill chop house, former “Simpson’s Tavern” a cornerstone of London’s social life since 1757, is set for a new chapter as our client, Cloth Restaurant, prepares to open next year. Friends and colleagues across The City were quick to react when I shared a glimpse of our project a few months ago, and excitement is already building.

The lease is now signed, and our plans are advancing with a submission for listed building consent in the works. Every detail matters in a building with such rich history, and our team has been meticulously cataloguing, analyzing, and scheduling repairs for each piece of joinery, every brass fitting, and all the distinctive architectural features that make this building truly special.

This project is about more than restoration – it’s about combining craftsmanship, innovation, and respect for heritage to ensure the building continues to thrive as a vibrant part of the City for generations to come.

Special thanks to Ben Butterworth and David Obaro for their extraordinary attention to detail.

(Proposed 3D Line Drawing by E2 Architecture | View as seen in watercolour image above of Ground Floor, Grill Room seating at the rear benches looking out through the bay window unto Ball Court.)

(Proposed 3D Line Drawing by E2 Architecture | External View of Ball Court. Original features retained with improvements to bay window.)

(Proposed 3D Line Drawing by E2 Architecture | External View of Castle Court.)

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