Shepherd Neame pub recreates Disney's Up

A pub in Farringdon has been given the Disney treatment by owner Shepherd Neame to celebrate the venue's reopening.

A display of more than 1,000 balloons floating above The Hoop and Grapes in London transformed the five-storey building into a real-life version of the house from Disney film 'Up', marking the return of one of the area’s most distinctive pubs.

Shepherd Neame has invested £1.8m in restoring the Grade II-listed landmark, which had been closed since 2019 during redevelopment of the surrounding area.

“Seeing more than 1,000 balloons billow above The Hoop and Grapes was a truly magical moment - a joyful way to mark the return of a pub with such a remarkable history," says operations manager Ryan Torrie. 

Up, up and away 

Shepherd Neame says the renewed pub now offers three "distinct experiences".

The ground floor retains the character of a classic London pub, opening onto a courtyard terrace. Upstairs, customers can visit the first-floor Terrace Bar or retreat to the Parson’s Parlour at the top of the building, designed for private dining and gatherings. The space features a black lacquered self-playing piano, along with a darts board and games table.

"We’ve worked hard to create a space that showcases the building’s heritage while offering a contemporary, welcoming experience, and the response from our team and customers has been incredible," adds Torrie. "The energy and excitement in Farringdon on opening day really reflected the care and creativity that has gone into this transformation. We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to enjoy this special place for years to come."

​The pub is led by general manager Phil McAree, whose relationship with Shepherd Neame spans more than 20 years, including managing the Coach & Horses in Mayfair and the Cock & Woolpack in Bank. McAree is working alongside new head chef Aleksandrs Voroncovs.  

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