The Blind Beggar

The Blind Beggar - Whitechapel - E1

The Blind Beggar is a public house located on 337 Whitechapel Road, Whitechapel, in the East End of London, England. It is notable for its association with East End gangsters, the Kray twins, and for its role in London's history as the site of a murder committed by one of the twins. The pub's history, however, stretches back much further and is rich with social and cultural significance, making it a landmark in the East End.

History

The Blind Beggar was built in 1894, but the site it occupies has been used for licensed premises since the 17th century. The pub's name is derived from the legend of Henry de Montfort, a son of Simon de Montfort, who was supposedly blinded at the Battle of Evesham and later became a beggar in the area. This story, while popular, is considered apocryphal by historians.

In the 1960s, the pub gained notoriety as a regular meeting place for the Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, who were leading figures in organized crime in London at the time. On March 9, 1966, Ronnie Kray shot and killed George Cornell, a member of a rival gang, inside the Blind Beggar, an event that contributed to the Krays' eventual arrest and conviction.

Cultural Significance

The Blind Beggar is not only known for its criminal associations but also for its place in London's cultural and social history. It has been featured in literature, films, and songs that depict the East End's complex character. The pub is a popular destination for those interested in the history of London, the East End, and the Kray twins.

Architecture

The current building, constructed in 1894, reflects the Victorian architectural style prevalent at the time. Its facade and interior have been preserved and restored over the years, maintaining much of its historical character and charm.

Today

Today, The Blind Beggar continues to operate as a pub, attracting locals and tourists alike. It offers a range of beers, ales, and traditional English pub food. The pub also hosts live music and events, contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the East End.

In Popular Culture

The Blind Beggar has been referenced in various works of fiction and non-fiction, including films, books, and music that explore the darker aspects of London's history and the infamous Kray twins. It remains a symbol of the East End's enduring spirit and complex history.