London’s wine scene is about to gain a truly extraordinary new address. Humble Grape, the independent wine bar and importer known for championing small-batch, sustainable producers, has announced the opening of its seventh location — and it might just be its most remarkable yet.
Set within the 11th-century crypt of St. Mary-le-Bow, the new Humble Grape Bow Lane brings together a millennium of history, exquisite architecture, and a modern passion for exceptional wine. Tucked quietly beneath the iconic Bow Bells of Cheapside, this unique bar promises a rare fusion of heritage and hospitality — an intimate refuge where ancient stone meets the contemporary joy of a perfectly poured glass.
A Venue Steeped in a Millennium of Stories
The crypt itself is a marvel. Spanning three bays and featuring original Norman arches and a groined vault, it radiates quiet grandeur — a space that has witnessed the city’s evolution from medieval marketplace to modern metropolis.
Above it stands Sir Christopher Wren’s rebuilt St. Mary-le-Bow, restored after the Great Fire of London and long celebrated as a symbol of resilience. To be “born within the sound of Bow Bells” is to be a true Cockney — a piece of folklore that ties the site intimately to London’s cultural identity.
Now, this ancient crypt finds new life as a place of connection, conversation, and discovery. Designed to accommodate 60 guests inside and 40 on the terrace, Humble Grape Bow Lane transforms centuries-old stone into a welcoming, softly lit haven — perfect for after-work gatherings, romantic evenings, or quiet contemplation over a glass of red.
“A Place of Gathering and Community”
For James Dawson, founder of Humble Grape, this opening represents more than just expansion — it’s a continuation of a shared ethos.
“Opening our doors within such an extraordinary setting is both humbling and inspiring,” says Dawson. “St. Mary-le-Bow has stood for centuries as a place of gathering and community — values that resonate deeply with Humble Grape. We want Bow Lane to be more than a wine bar; it’s a place where people can connect, discover wines made with integrity, and feel part of something timeless.”
It’s an ambition that feels right at home beneath the church’s vaulted stone.
Fighting the Good Wine Fight
Founded in 2009, Humble Grape has grown from a single pop-up into a beloved family of London wine bars — each one united by Dawson’s simple but radical mission: to fight the good wine fight.
That means no mass production, no chemicals, and no pretense. The brand directly imports wines from 26 countries, working exclusively with independent, sustainable producers who craft bottles with authenticity and care.
But while sustainability is at the heart of the business, so too is accessibility. Humble Grape aims to strip away the jargon and intimidation that often cloud the world of wine, replacing it with warmth, creativity, and genuine enthusiasm. Friendly, knowledgeable staff guide guests through tasting notes written in plain English — and, most importantly, help people find wines they truly love.
Wine, Food, and Fellowship
The Bow Lane location will follow the brand’s beloved wine-bar-meets-restaurant-meets-shop format. The list will feature over 500 bottles, available by the glass or to take home, alongside a menu of European-inspired sharing plates.
Expect signature favourites such as the baked Camembert, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and seasonal small plates that pair beautifully with the ever-changing wine list. For heartier appetites, there will be perfectly cooked steaks, house breads, and rotating specials crafted around seasonal British produce.
Each dish is designed to complement the wine — not overshadow it — creating an experience that celebrates balance, flavour, and simplicity.
Where Past and Present Pour Together
With six successful locations already across the capital, Humble Grape’s newest venue is both a return to roots and a bold new chapter. It embraces history not as a backdrop but as part of the experience — inviting guests to pause, to sip, and to connect in a place that has been quietly holding London’s stories for nearly a thousand years.
In an age of instant experiences, there’s something deeply grounding about a setting that reminds us of time itself — the slow craftsmanship of winemaking mirrored in the centuries-old stone that surrounds it.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply someone seeking beauty and calm amid the city’s bustle, Humble Grape Bow Lane promises an encounter that feels both timeless and new.
Humble Grape Bow Lane opens November 2025 within the crypt of St. Mary-le-Bow, Cheapside (EC2).
For more information, visit www.humblegrape.co.uk
