One of Covent Garden's most recognisable and long-standing bars has poured its final drink, marking the end of a 45-year chapter in London's social history.
The End of an Era for a Market Hall Pioneer
The Crusting Pipe, a popular bar and restaurant located on the lower ground floor of Covent Garden's market hall, shut its doors for good on December 21, 2025. For decades, visitors to the bustling market would often peer down from the upper levels to see its patrons enjoying wine and meals below. The venue was a founding tenant of the transformed market complex, having moved in during 1980 when the former fruit and vegetable market was redeveloped into a hub for entertainment and hospitality.
Why Did The Crusting Pipe Close?
The closure has been attributed to significant shifts in the commercial landscape and how customers now choose to spend their leisure time. Davy's, the wine merchant group which operated the bar, confirmed the permanent shutdown. A statement on the company's website explained the decision, noting: 'As trading environments and customer habits have evolved, this chapter has now come to a close.' The statement also expressed gratitude to the staff and customers who contributed to the venue's unique character and success over nearly half a century.
A Wider Trend of London Pub Closures
The loss of The Crusting Pipe is not an isolated incident. The year 2025 saw several other cherished London drinking establishments close permanently. These included The Gun in Hackney, the iconic bar G-A-Y, and the historic pub Ye Olde Swiss Cottage. This trend highlights the ongoing challenges facing the capital's hospitality sector, from rising costs to changing consumer behaviours post-pandemic.
While London continues to welcome new venues, the departure of such an integral part of Covent Garden's fabric since the 1980s signifies a poignant shift for the area. The Crusting Pipe's distinctive presence, once a constant amidst the market's evolution, is now a memory.
