Pub in London WC1
Museum Tavern
49 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3BAClosest station: Tottenham Court Road, about 7 min walk4.4out of 5 on Google, from 2,350 ratings
Details last checked October 2024. Things may have changed since.
About Museum Tavern
Cask ale, global wines and pub grub in a Victorian interior with carved wood and etched glass.
A magnificent Victorian pub opposite the British Museum, a CAMRA Heritage Pub. Originally the Dog and Duck stood on this site, signifying local duck hunting. John Creed became landlord in 1762 and initiated the name British Museum Tavern, to identify the pub with the nearby collection, which was being developed from specimens collected by Sir Hans Sloane. William Finch Hill designed the 1855 redevelopment with the ground floor front and classic mahogany back bar fitting being evident today.
1889 saw another redesign of the interior by architects Wylson and Long. Finch's classical style was partly preserved as five separate bars were created, with partitions and decorations of stained glass. Two rare examples of these stained glass windows survive in the bar today, an essential part of any visit. Five bars were reduced to three in 1935 becoming one in the 1960s. The five sets of entrance doors are all that remains of this arrangement today.
Traditional pub food is served. Pre pandemic this was a rare regular outlet for Old Peculier but as at Nov 2021 it has not come back and neither have any guest beers. Ciders such as Weston's no longer meet CAMRA's definition of "real cider".
Description from WhatPub, CAMRA’s pub guide, with a summary from Google Maps.
Features
- Dog Friendly
- Outdoor Seating: Pavement seating
- Family Friendly
- Serves Food
- Serves Lunch
- Serves Dinner
- Real Ale
- Cask Marque
- Real Heritage Pub
- Disabled Access: To pub only
- WiFi
- Reservable
- Good for Groups
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Accepts Debit Cards
- Accepts NFC
Opening times
- Monday
- 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday
- 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
As listed in October 2024. Hours change, and bank holidays differ: check with the pub.
Good to know
- Operator
- Greene King
- Price
- 2 out of 4 (Google’s price level)
- Phone
- 020 7242 8987
Photos
Photos from Google Maps contributors, stored when the pub was last checked.
Google rating and reviews
4.4out of 5 on Google, from 2,350 ratings
5 out of 5Vahid Shahanion Google, August 2024
Had a great experience at the Museum Tavern in London. The steak sandwich was delicious—juicy and flavorful, and the pie was outstanding with its rich filling and flaky crust. The cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to unwind. Definitely recommend it for a satisfying mea and drink! Thank you 😊
4 out of 5Tommy Suthon Google, September 2024
The Museum Tavern was very busy, which is always a good start. We soon found a table and perused the menu. The menu had something for everyone. With our food and drink choices complete, I went to the bar to place the order. The order was dealt with very quickly. It seemed the barman was very familiar with his menu. Drinks were soon prepared and back on our table. The pub has a nice atmosphere and a decor which reflects how pubs used to be 40 years ago. Minus the food of course. Our food order came in an acceptable time. The food was very hot and extremely tasty. Using the rest room is a bit…
4 out of 5C Yageron Google, August 2024
A little nice old pub. A small but nice variety of beers on tap, including cask beers. Friendly service, typical prices for tourists area. Indoor and outdoor seating.
5 out of 5Chonticha Sawangjangon Google, June 2024
Sunday roast with Berries cider is a great combination. I enjoy it. The location is quite busy, but the pub is cosy inside. P.S. Staff is very friendly.
5 out of 5Big bear Daddyon Google, October 2024
Enjoyed our visit. The bartenders were very helpful and friendly, lovely customer service. The food is just amazing! I enjoyed my duck hash, very well cooked. Good gin range. Great atmosphere and it’s just in front of the British Museum
Rating and reviews are from Google Maps, as they stood in October 2024. See the latest on Google Maps.