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Picture source: Tony Boon

The Bow Bell was situated at 45 Cheapside.

The house is part of the Bank of England extension building and stands on the corner, where Bread Street joins Cheapside. Built in 1962 the previous history is not known, the present structure is however still interesting inside, having an up to date charm of its own. The Chimes Bar is very modern, with one wall completely covered with drapes. The other wall, along with the entrance and stairway, is plastered with decorative bottles sunk into the plaster. The room is split into two, one part being used for a snack or buffet bar and the other part a beer bar, the seating is upholstered in black leather and is modern and comfortable. Downstairs is the Bow Bar which again is modern in design, with facilities for dancing, indeed this bar is often used for private functions such as dinner dances and as a discotheque on Thursdays and Fridays. Luncheon is served from 12.00 noon until 3.00 pm with the exception of Saturday and Sunday. The menu in the Bow Bell Restaurant is well chosen with specialities such as Shepherds Pie and Steak and Kidney Pie among the list of appetising dishes. To mention a few, there are Vol-au-Vent of Chicken, Grilled Sirloin or Porterhouse Steaks and various omelettes. The wine list, though not extensive, is adequate. Salads and various sandwiches and hot snacks are also served in the Chimes Bar, though in the evening this is limited to cold snacks only.

Review of City of London Pubs, 1960s

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