The Hearth was established shortly after the founding of Candlekeep by a retired adventurer and scholar named Alaric the Quiet. He desired a sanctuary where the pursuit of knowledge could be paired with quiet contemplation and good company. This vision offered a welcome respite from the dust and silence of the libraries.

The tavern’s namesake and centerpiece, its enormous fireplace, was built with stones salvaged from a ruin predating the Shadow War. These ancient stones are rumored to possess faint, dormant magical properties. They are said to create a pervasive sense of peace and warmth throughout the establishment.

Over the centuries, The Hearth has evolved into an unofficial repository of unique information. It collects a rich tapestry of oral histories, travelers' tales, and intricate hand-drawn maps. Many patrons have contributed their own stories and discoveries to this growing collection, which is meticulously preserved in a series of leather-bound volumes kept securely behind the bar.