New Wetherspoons Pub Opening in Former London Dungeon Location
JD Wetherspoon is set to breathe new life into the former London Dungeon location with the opening of a new pub. The Sun Wharf pub will be situated inside the arches at 50 Tooley Street and will welcome patrons from 6.30 am to 12.30 am daily. The name is said to be a nod to one of the historic wharves east of London Bridge where imports from Australia once docked.
The space that will house the new pub was previously home to The London Dungeon, an iconic attraction owned by Merlin Entertainments until 2013. Following its closure, The London Dungeon relocated to County Hall on the South Bank as part of the redevelopment of London Bridge Station. The final Tooley Street tour took place on January 31, 2013, offering visitors a chilling experience with sections such as The Great Plague, Blood and Guts, Boat Ride to Hell, and the infamous Sweeney Todd.
Network Rail had expressed difficulties in finding a suitable tenant for the space, citing its poor quality environment. In 2017, the rail provider stated, “The residual premises provide a very poor quality environment. The former user (London Dungeon) was somewhat unusual in so far as the poor quality environment was its main attraction. NR Commercial Property has been unable to identify other potential D2 users willing to lease the residual space in its current state.”
The announcement of the new Wetherspoon’s pub at London Bridge comes on the heels of the recent opening of The Lion & The Unicorn at Waterloo Station, further solidifying the chain’s presence in key transport hubs across the city.
Reviving a Historic Location
The decision to transform the former London Dungeon site into a pub reflects a growing trend of repurposing historic buildings and landmarks for contemporary use. By breathing new life into these spaces, businesses like JD Wetherspoon are not only preserving the heritage of the area but also creating vibrant social hubs for locals and visitors alike.
The Sun Wharf pub is poised to become a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a drink or meal in a unique setting steeped in history. With its convenient location near London Bridge and a range of transport links, the pub is expected to attract a diverse crowd of commuters, tourists, and residents.
Preserving the Legacy of The London Dungeon
While The London Dungeon may have bid farewell to its Tooley Street location, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its spine-chilling exhibits. From the gruesome tales of the Great Plague to the hair-raising boat ride through hell, the attraction offered a glimpse into London’s dark and mysterious past.
As the new pub takes shape within the former dungeon walls, visitors can expect to see subtle nods to its eerie history incorporated into the decor and ambiance. Perhaps a corner of the pub will pay homage to Sweeney Todd, or a themed cocktail menu will feature drinks inspired by the attraction’s most infamous characters.
In conclusion, the transformation of the former London Dungeon site into a Wetherspoon’s pub marks a new chapter in the history of this iconic location. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the Sun Wharf pub is poised to become a beloved gathering spot for Londoners and tourists alike.