Owl & Pussycat, Bethnal Green

Has an early 19th century classical style façade to probably an 18th century three-storey building. It is pleasing to see that the ground floor exterior of green tiles in recent years has been re-exposed having been painted over in gastro grey-blue paint in modern times. The three front doors indicate it was divided by partitions into three (or four?) rooms in the past. The pubs entry on the inventory for its splendid mahogany bar back which may date back to early Victorian times making it one of the oldest in the country?

There is a lovely two-bay curved section on the left with a small enamel makers label ‘Mudd 1 King St. Hackney Rd.’ situated above a clock – presumably the fitter of the whole bar back. It has a plain mirrored backing and wooden shelving. Unusually, there is a tiled fireplace under the clock with a floral fringe around the hearth, possibly dating from the 1920s.

To the right of a staff access door is the main section of the bar back is of more plain mirrors and has two distinctive parts – the left hand one of one bay having columns at each end with foliage capitals and volutes (?) and the right hand section set slightly further back of two bays with the top section held up by large console brackets. Note the two brass plates on the pilasters (right one lost?) with the wording “Cognac Brandy’ and ‘Jamaica Rum’ with holes indicating the existence of spirits cocks originally which dispensed drinks stored (and blended?) on the first floor. Other examples can be found at the Cock & Bottle, Notting Hill.

In contrast to the bar back, the counter is very plain with recessed panels – all painted a pale green colour – and the top is a later addition. Dado panelling on the left wall is dated? - also painted a pale green colour. Another fireplace on the right with a stone surround painted black is possibly from the 1920s but the overmantle is an import. The odd piece of fixed seating might be old.