Have you ever noticed a coat of arms subtly placed above a pub entrance? The King’s Arms on Newcomen Street boasts just such a detail. It’s more than just a pretty picture though. This isn’t just any pub. The King’s Arms holds a piece of London’s history within its walls.
The King’s Arms isn’t just a place for a pint. It’s a living link to the past. The pub itself may be a later addition. The building stands where once stood an inn. The coat of arms above the door tells the real story. It’s a relic from the old London Bridge. Specifically from the southern gateway of the bridge. It dates back to around 1728. Imagine the bustling scene it once overlooked. The gateway was demolished around 1760. Thankfully the coat of arms was rescued. The King’s Arms became its new home. A testament to this historic landmark’s enduring legacy. The King’s Arms. The name itself suggests a royal connection.
The King’s Arms isn’t just a pub with a coat of arms. Its location adds to its charm. It’s tucked away on Newcomen Street. The street itself has a fascinating history. It was once known as Axe Yard. Later it was called Axe and Bottle Yard. The name changed to King Street in 1774. Finally it became Newcomen Street in 1879. Elizabeth Newcomen a significant figure in the area’s past lent her name to the street.
The King’s Arms has witnessed centuries of change. London Bridge itself has been rebuilt many times. This pub has endured. It is a silent observer of countless stories. Stories of people coming and going. From the days of the old London Bridge to present day London. The King’s Arms has seen it all.
Today the King’s Arms stands as a reminder. A reminder of London’s rich tapestry of history. It serves as a meeting place for locals and visitors. It welcomes everyone. A place to enjoy a drink and reflect on the passage of time. Raise a glass to the King’s Arms. A pub with a story to tell. A story of endurance. A story woven into the fabric of London itself.