Ten Bells

The interior is still lit by candles, which is probably to the benefit of the peeling paint and cracking wood. The soft, yellow light doesn't quite make it to cozy, instead settling on gloom, but that's to the benefit of the average patron, who is here for the cheap prices and minimal chit-chat.

If the Depression is blunted in London, it certainly seems to have pooled at the Ten Bells. Of course, the history of the building may have something to do with that...

Purpose / Function

The downstairs bar is a traditional pub, with two upstairs "clubs" that can be reserved for private functions.

Architecture

Most of the building the pub is attached to is brick, but that gives way to a light grey stone where the pub's rooms start. The stone is water-stained and discolored in places, but it definitely stands out from the uniform red-brow of the rest of the building.

History

In the 18th Century, it was called Eight Bells, for the chimes of Christ Church, which is right next door. When the church purchased a new ten-bell set of chimes, the pub updated its name. No doubt, this is what the pub would most like to be remembered for, but the pub's location and clientele have ensured that it has become far more famous, for far grimmer reasons, since 1888.

Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly, two prostitutes, were known to frequent the bar, and both were victims of Jack the Ripper. Mary Kelly was seen at the Ten Bells less than an hour before she was found dead. The owner has occasionally dabbled with the idea of highlighting the position of the pub in Ripper lore, but the fearsome negative reaction of the locals has always dissuaded him.

Alternative Names

Ripper Pub

Type

Pub / Tavern / Restaurant