Coronavirus: Appeal to save West End pub steeped in theatre history

A fundraising appeal has been launched to save an iconic West End pub opposite the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

One of the oldest pubs in Covent Garden, the Nell of Old Drury has "long associations with London’s literary and theatrical community".

The pub is connected to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane via an underground tunnel, which was allegedly used by Charles II to visit actor Nell Gwynn during the late 1600s.

According to the fundraising page on GoFundMe, the Nell of Old Drury is in "grave danger of coming to an end in these difficult times".

The page states: "The Nell of Old Drury opposite the Theatre Royal Drury Lane has been welcoming Theatreland since the 1700s, with many a famous face sitting in our iconic bay window.

"The history of the pub is well documented, due to our connections with royalty and our famous tunnel.

"We have faced tough times since the Theatre Royal closed for refurbishment in January 2019, and were looking forward to welcoming everyone back when the theatre reopened. Now because of the Covid Pandemic and uncertainty of when theatres will reopen we are asking for everyone’s help."

According to the fundraiser, the pub’s manager Brian Hebblethwaite is facing the prospect of having to close the establishment permanently.

The page adds: "During these very difficult times we are asking for support from our valued friends, old and new. Any and all donations, no matter the amount, will be hugely appreciated.

"It would be a sad day for history and theatre tradition if after all these years the Nell was to stay closed. We can promise a party to end all parties when the doors do open again."

The fundraising page has so far raised more than £2,000, with a target of £80,000.

Donors include Fleabag producer Francesca Moody, who posted on Twitter: "So many well-loved memories have been made here, pre-show, post-show, meetings and all. Save the Nell Of Old Drury."