Historic Fitzrovia pub the Newman Arms reopens after major refurbishment blending heritage with modern flair

The Newman Arms, a historic public house situated on Rathbone Street in Fitzrovia, reopened to the public late this summer following a significant refurbishment. Managed by Experience Capital Group, the pub has been welcoming guests again after undergoing a modern update designed to preserve its rich heritage while introducing contemporary elements.

Originally established as a pub in 1860, The Newman Arms has a varied history, having previously operated as a candle-maker’s shop, an ironmonger’s, a picture framer’s, and, reportedly, a brothel. These layers of history have contributed to its reputation as a cultural fixture in the area. A mural of a 19th-century prostitute still adorns a bricked-up upstairs window, and a tongue-in-cheek plaque commemorates a former landlord, reading: “Joe Jenkins, ex-proprietor, poet, bon viveur, and Old Git, regularly swore at everybody on these premises.”

The refurbishment has retained many historical features while integrating new design elements. The downstairs area nods to the building’s past, maintaining a traditional pub atmosphere with references to its more colourful former uses.  The bar and social spaces are styled to reflect the industrial aesthetic of the blacksmiths who once frequented the establishment.

One of the pub’s key features is its upstairs pie room, which has been preserved and updated. It now offers a menu focused on traditional British pies made from organic, sustainably sourced ingredients provided by English farmers. Among them, the classic Chicken, Ham Hock and Creamed Leek is a must, together with the Aged Beef Shin & Rib, served with Murphy’s stout gravy, creamy mash and roasted hispi cabbage. Before the speciality of the house, it is recommended to also select one or two items from the starter selection, which includes delicious Crispy Lamb Belly Scrumpets and Chestnut Mushroom Paté. As for the drinks, the Black Velvet, made with Crémant and Murphy’s Stout, proposes a twist on Winston Churchill’s favourite drink, whereas the Limoncello Spritz and the Negroni hip flask delivers refreshed versions of some great classics. 

The relaunch is part of a broader initiative by Experience Capital Group, led by hospitality entrepreneurs William St John and Callum Murphy. St John is the former Operations Director of TRAMP, a private members’ club in London. The group aims to modernise the traditional British pub while maintaining its cultural and architectural heritage.

Food Desk

For further information and reservations, visit The Newman Arms’ website here.