'Oldest pub in London' celebrates 600th anniversary

By Ellie Bothwell

- Last updated on GMT

The Old Red Lion in Islington has traded continuously since 1415
The Old Red Lion in Islington has traded continuously since 1415
A north London pub, thought to be the oldest surviving boozer in London, has organised a raft of creative events to celebrate its 600th anniversary.

The Old Red Lion in Islington has launched a research project into the pub’s history, which will culminate in an exhibition; a festival of six short plays reflecting on each century of the pub’s existence; and a programme of one-off events, from music and performance to talks on the history of the pub and surrounding area.

The pub, which has traded continuously since 1415, has housed the Old Red Lion Theatre for the past 40 years and claims to have served famous names including Karl Marx, William Hogarth and Charles Dickens.

Punch Taverns tenant Damien Devine said: “Of course we’re throwing a party, but with six centuries of history to celebrate, we wanted to do a whole lot more.

"We want to make this a year to remember, to thank our loyal customers and the artists who make this one of London’s most beloved venues.”

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