Historic Revival: Inside the Restoration of London’s Former Simpson’s Tavern

London’s streets are layered with history, but few buildings carry the weight of social and cultural memory quite like the former Simpson’s Tavern in Cornhill. Established in 1757, it was widely regarded as London’s oldest chop-house – a place where generations of City workers, writers and thinkers gathered for nearly 300 years.

When the original pub and restaurant closed its doors in 2022, its future was uncertain. Today, that future is taking shape once again, with a sensitive revival under way as the building becomes Cloth Cornhill – a new restaurant breathing fresh life into this remarkable historic setting.

At E2, we’re proud to be part of this next chapter.

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

A Landmark with Deep Cultural Significance

The former Simpson’s Tavern is far more than just a building. It is part of London’s social fabric – a place that witnessed centuries of change while retaining its character, atmosphere and purpose.

As a listed building in one of the City’s most historically rich areas, any proposals for change demand a careful, considered approach.

Preserving what makes this place special, while allowing it to function for contemporary use, is exactly the kind of challenge where conservation-led architecture matters most.

(Proposed 3D Lined Drawing by E2 Architecture | View of ground floor with grill room seating at the rear – looking out the bay windows into Ball Court)

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

Our Role: Contemporary Conservation in Action

It’s now official that a lease has been signed for the site, and work is progressing behind the scenes to prepare a detailed submission for listed building consent. Our role is to guide the transformation of the former tavern with the lightest possible touch – retaining the character, craftsmanship and historic detailing that define the building, while carefully adapting it for its future as Cloth Cornhill.

Every decision is being shaped by the building’s significance: from historic joinery and interior details through to the materials, layout and spatial relationships that give the tavern its distinctive identity. As with all our heritage projects, the aim is not to freeze the building in time, but to allow it to evolve in a way that feels respectful, natural and enduring.

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

What Happens Next

As the listed building consent process moves forward, we’ll continue to work closely with the wider project team to ensure that the building’s historic fabric is protected, enhanced and celebrated.

When Cloth Cornhill opens its doors, it will do so with its heritage intact – carrying forward the story of a place that has served London for centuries.

Thinking About a Heritage Building Yourself?

Projects like Cloth Cornhill at the former Simpson’s Tavern often come to us with complex planning histories, high expectations and considerable constraints, but also huge potential.

With the right conservation-led approach, even the most sensitive buildings can be successfully adapted for modern use.

If you’re considering changes to a listed or heritage property, we’d be happy to discuss how we can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Get in touch with E2 to start the conversation