England's Oldest Pub
In Middleton lies a bit of history as the country's oldest pub sits here: The Olde Boar's Head.
We take a trip to Middleton to tour England’s oldest pub – The Olde Boar's Head. Built in 1632, and still situated on Long Street and as time goes on and buildings are moved or destroyed, this has stayed for so long.
Its incredible longevity means it claims the title of England’s oldest pub. The pub has many notable features and stories that make it unique amongst most in the country.
We were welcomed to take a tour of the grand old pub and to speak to landlady Alex Worsley about her ‘historic’ venue.
The Unique Features
One of the interesting features comes in the Fisherman’s Room, where several different REAL fish lie that date back to the early 20th century:
Amazingly, there is original woodwork and fireplaces which have been preserved here since the building was first built:
The pub’s Sessions Room, now used for functions, was used to try criminals during the 17th and 18th centuries (left) and held in the holding cell (right) before they were sent to prison:
Famous Faces
19th-century English writer and poet Sam Bamford is a notable name in Middleton and has a room named after him in the pub, with many of his works depicted there in his honour:
One of the most notable criminals in English history was a highwayman Dick Turpin who famously executed in the 17th century for horse theft and while on the run would take a regularly stop here.
It is still said that his ghost haunts the pub today.
New Landlady, Same Pressures.
The pub has undergone some changes in recent months, with a new landlady and manager taking over in February, and Alex Worsley (middle) spoke about the pressures of running the pub.
Furthermore she added: “It’s a historic landmark, it’s a Grade 2 star listed building, so for example, if I were to drill into a wall or anything of the like in this pub, you better believe I’m going to get a knock on my door from some sort of local authority.”
A Grade 2* listed building in the UK is defined as a building or structure that is a ‘particularly important building of more than special interest.’ Only 5.8% of buildings in the UK are listed under that category, with the likes of Manchester Central Library being listed under the same.
You can learn more about Grade II listed buildings here
Alex gave us some of the notable names who have been spotted in the pub: “I know Steve Coogan has been here, The Hairy Bikers made an appearance once upon a time too, when they had a TV show, and they came in and had some food.”
“It (the pub) means so much to the people of Middleton, and I’ve always loved this pub, having worked here previously on the bar, so I have a special affinity.”
“The Olde Boars Head has been here before me and it’ll remain an iconic landmark long after I am gone,” she added, “I love it here though, not planning on going anywhere soon.”
“Long live the Olde Boars Head!”