Historic Sunderland Pub with Dickens Connection Reopens

The Bridge Hotel Vaults, a pub on Sunderland’s High Street West where Charles Dickens once lodged, has been revitalized through a £250,000 renovation. Constructed in 1792, the establishment had not functioned as a pub for over three decades, having most recently served as office premises. Vaux Brewery and music venue Pop Recs have now assumed control, aiming to contribute to the city’s regeneration initiatives. According to pub manager Steve Smith, the Grade II listed structure possesses a rich history, having hosted “famous clientele.” Smith stated, “There’s been all sorts of high jinks here, it was first set up as hotel and pub in 1797 and Charles Dickens stopped here when he came to town back in 1852.” Dickens, the renowned author, was performing at the adjacent Lyceum Theatre during his 1852 visit. Ulysses S Grant, an American Civil War hero and the 18th US president, is also thought to have stayed overnight at the venue during his 1877 tour of the North East. Mr Smith expressed, “To be a part of the story of this amazing building is really exciting and we can’t wait to welcome back customers.” He noted that while the interior’s original features had largely disappeared after three decades as office space, “the original mosaic tiles” on the exterior were still present. Dan Shannon, co-manager of the pub and owner of Pop Recs, described it as “amazing to help guide the pub into the future.” He further commented, “Pop Recs is just over the road so we’ve been admiring this building for years, I think it’s going to really help revitalise this end of the city centre.” Vaux Brewery has crafted a speciality lager specifically for the establishment, and there are intentions to incorporate a restaurant in the near future. Mr Smith additionally stated, “We’re definitely one of the oldest pubs in the city, but we think it it can be one of the best pubs in the city too.”