Page 54 - Ian Marshall - London Coffe Houses - Standing Display January 2016
P. 54
Guildhall Coffee House
23, King Street, Cheapside
(1685-1861)
Its earliest mention is in 1685. In 1798 it was reported that "these
premises much frequented by gentlemen from all parts ofEngland and
having lately undergone a thorough repair with the addition ofthree
houses which being situated in the most centrical and quiet part ofthe
city, render it a most eligible residence for country gentlemen who
frequent the metropolis". It was situated on the comer of King Street and
Cateaton Street (re-named Gresham Street in 1848).
One ofthe covers displayed clearly shows that John Smith was running
his business from the premises using pre-printed and numbered reply
envelopes. By 1867 it was being listed as the Guildhall Tavern.
A wrapper which arrived in London on 18th October 1841.
56~2
_JOHN SMITH, Esq.,
,Guildhall Coffee House,
r ....
Gresham St1·eet,
Cheapside, E .C.
- -'If I 7
A printed and numbered envelope posted in Sandown, Isle of Wight, on
22°~ September 1861 which passed through Southampton the same day
' on its way to London where it arrived the next day.
