Brown plaque № 11589
Connection to This Location
# The Ship Tavern at Gate Street Standing before 12 Gate Street in Holborn, you're looking at a building that served as far more than a simple alehouse—it was a sanctuary of secrets and revolution for nearly two centuries. Founded in 1549, The Ship Tavern became a clandestine refuge during the dang...
Location
12, Gate Street, Holborn
Inscription
Founded AD 1549 Rebuilt AD 1923 The Ship Tavern. This tavern was established in the year 1549. During the proscription of the Roman Catholic religion, it was used as a shelter for Priests and Services were held here secretly. The neighbourhood was once notorious for the gambling houses of Whetstone Park. Famous visitors have been Richard Penderell, who aided King Charles' escape, Bayford, shoemaker and antiquarian. The woman Chevalier d'Eon, who lived as a man, and Smeaton the builder of the first Eddystone Lighthouse. It was a centre of Freemasonry and a Lodge with the number 234 was consecrated here by the Grand Master the Earl of Antrim in 1786.