It was constructed on a corner site in 1886 by Sir Arthur Blomfield in a grand Italianate style, the interior having three large chandeliers with a detailed plaster ceiling.

[1][2] The building was occupied by the Law Courts branch of the Bank of England from 1888 to 1975 before it was refurbished and put to its current use in 1994.

[3][4] The vaults beneath the pub once contained gold bullion, and are said to have held the Crown Jewels for a period as well.

[5] The pub is close to where the fictional Sweeney Todd is said to have plied his trade.

[6] The pub is currently operated by McMullen's Brewery.