The old lady of Tamworth

The Globe Inn is one of the oldest names in Tamworth pubs. It's been rebuilt and restored over the years, and the latest refurb was just five years ago (curiously, the official history of the pub does not mention this fact).  But it still has the appearance and character of a Victorian pub.

It's a good ol' boozer.

Princess Royal in Dresden

Princess Victoria? Yes indeed, this pub is named after her; and the pub-sign shows a likeness of this Victoria Princess Royal.
However, this is not the lady whom we know as Queen Victoria, but her daughter - who had the same name.
The man who built this pub (in the 1850s) in the Dresden district of Stoke-on-Trent was clearly of a monarchist turn of mind, and clearly was determined to tie in his fortunes with royalty.

However, the pub (and its sign) only confirm in my own mind that walking through parts of Stoke-on-Trent is like going back in time. Where else would a pub not only retain the name of a long-forgotten princess, but still have her portrait hanging outside?

(If you enjoy such facts, you'll be pleased to know the pub-sign picture is based on the work by the painter Winterhalter).

Hollybush welcomes the sun

The sun's back!!
It seems a bit odd to celebrate a sight of the sun in MID-JUNE (less than a week away from MidSummer Day) - but it has been a solidly grey few weeks until today.

The best place to celebrate the sun is at a country pub, preferably by water, having lunch. The Hollybush (at Denford) suited the bill.

Link: Hollybush Pub