Pub owned by Sir Ian McKellen faces backlash after barring nearly 30 locals
The group of regulars say they've been banned from the 500-year-old pub despite not causing trouble.
A PUB owned by Lord of the Rings star Sir Ian McKellen is facing a backlash from locals after nearly 30 were barred.
A group of regular drinkers say they have suddenly been turned away despite not causing trouble.
The Grapes — which overlooks the Thames — has been part-owned by the Gandalf actor since 2011.
Sir Ian, 79, bought the 500-year-old pub in Limehouse, East London, with two business partners, having been a regular himself.
One of the pub’s co-owners is his former partner Sean Mathias. It is thought Sean’s husband Paul de Lange now manages the pub day to day.
Its website promises “a friendly greeting in your local pub”.
But some nearby residents claim is only interested in tourists.
On the Limehouse Matters Facebook group, John Sharp said: “They like ‘passing tourist trade’ only in that pub — ‘locals’ are just too much hassle despite what their website laughably says.”
Tony Perry, wrote: “Over the last few days I’ve received loads of PMs from people who have been banned without any explanation. The common denominator being local and regulars.”
James Dodman added: “26 locals barred. Interesting business model, banning your local customers just before Christmas.”
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