We should never forget that, in many cases, inns were the bus stations of the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Coaching inns would have a stables and a cobbled yard where, on cold and misty mornings, horses would snort and sweat, leather trunks would be hoisted, passengers would take their leave and think of what would await them at the end of their journey. The Castle Inn, Skipton is one such early nineteenth century coaching inn which huddles up to Holy Trinity Church as if looking for protection. Back in 1853, it offered little protection when lightning struck the church and falling masonry almost demolished the old inn. But all old inns have stories to tell to those who are willing to listen whilst they sip their pints.
That is what is so special about England. Pubs and their history.
ReplyDeleteLooka like a great spot for a quiet pint.
ReplyDeleteThere are benefits to the top of the hill. Good it survived the onslaught and rebuilt.
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ReplyDeleteIt's always interesting that there are remains of these very old establishments.
Two things I miss about England are the rain -- yes, a nice warm summery rain. (We have only had a spritz since April.) and the wonderful inns and tea rooms.
ReplyDeleteYes, I like the way this one snuggles up to the church. Church and pub being equally important to the community for most of their history.
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