Saint Katharine Docks is a pretty special place. The roots of the buildings, including the building that houses Rainmaking Loft, can be traced back to the 10th Century when King Edgar gave 13 acres of land to 13 Knights (yes, really).

Pimms by the glass and jug

To accommodate the pace of trade during the Industrial Revolution, civil engineer Thomas Telford and architect Philip Hardwick were tasked with designing six storey warehouses, with cast iron window frames and extensive vaults. The vaults were necessary to store casks of wine and other luxury goods flowing into the docks. 

The warehouses, all but one, were victims of The Blitz. From their ruins the buildings that now line the marina were built, mirroring the architecture of the old warehouses.

Which brings me to the point of this story. I was wandering around International House, the building that houses Rainmaking Loft. In the basement there is a small artefact from the old days - a sign that reads: Pimms by the glass and jug

There are also old storage rooms for casks.

Now. I’m a firm believer that a good story should not be spoiled by too much concern for the truth. This said, I think it’s only right to mention that International House, until 2009, was the home to The Vineyard Ale & Port House - a Davy’s establishment - which is probably the original creator of the sign.

This discovery worked up quite a thirst in the Loft and we decided to make this sunny Friday a Pimms day. Oh, and that means we can also inaugurate our new Rainmaking Loft coasters! 

Cheers!