You often hear the question ‘what’s the best pub in Bristol?’ But what’s the oldest?
We took a dive into Bristol Archives to discover some fascinating pictures of pubs from years gone by, from a closed pub mentioned in The Pickwick Papers to a haunted pub which thankfully reopened two years ago.
But going back to that question. We believe The Hatchet Inn in Frogmore Street, which opened in 1606 is the oldest, pipping the Llandoger Trow which opened just over 50 years later. Think we’re wrong, let us know by emailing [email protected]. Meanwhile, take a look through some of these old pictures:
1. Bush Tavern, city centre
One of the most famous coaching inn in the country, the Bush Tavern was located opposite the Corn Exchange. Its claim to fame was being mentioned in The Pickwick Papers, published in 1837. The pub served as a coach office where passengers booked their journeys.
2. Ye Shakespeare, Redcliffe - unknown date
Ye Shakespeare is one of the city’s oldest pubs with parts of the building dating back to 1636. It was first used as a dairy before being converted into a pub in the mid-1800s. In 2020 it benefited from a refurbishment.
3. Hatchet Inn, city centre - 1900
Despite the years which have gone by, you can still easily recognise the frontage of this pub which is still in existence today. Situated on Frogmore Street, some of the building dates back to 1606, and in the 1700s there was a rat pit at the rear of the site. In 2006, the pub marked 400 years with surrounding streets closed and regulars turning up in historical costumes.
4. Lamb Inn, Bedminster - 1920s
Positioned between Lawford Street and Gloucester Lane on West Street, this triple gabled house appeared to be in bad condition during the time of this picture. It as a coaching inn with stables and a courtyard - but was demolished in the 1920s and replaced with shops.