Strand & Fleet Street Undressed

Time for Strandman’s review of the week- a pub called the Old Bank of England. Most high streets suffer from adecline in the number of bank branches and the th oh-so-familiar ‘new’ pub name of ‘Bank’.
This is slightly different and has some redeeming features.
This Grade I listed building was erected in 1888 as the Law Courts Branch of the Bank of England. It was designed in the Italianate style, popular at the time. It was converted in 1995.
Ironically an historic pub, the Cock ( amore atmospheric), was moved across Fleet Street to make way for the new bank.

I have to stay I like the interior; it is solid and sturdy, just what you'd expect of a bank. Fuller's Brewery has spent a small fortune restoring and decorating this fine building, and has commissioned new paintings and murals. Large columns rise up to the high ornate plaster ceiling.
 From this hangs three very large brass chandeliers.
The central bar structure almost reaches the ceiling and is so tall, a ladder has been provided to reach the top shelf. Gold and black curtains frame the huge windows and paint effect decorate the walls. The overall feel is rich and opulent.
I went upstairs to the gallery for a better view and sneaked some photographs.
This is a very popular pub and is often packed at lunchtimes and early evenings.
Bar food is available and there is a restaurant through the door marked 'Club Room'.