11th October 2008 - by Ann Coveney
A Guide to Drinking and Thinking in Nottingham
Welcome to the thinking person's guide to Nottingham. Here is a
fun way to find out about some of Nottingham's rich history
whilst having a jolly good time!
Nags head
Start your tour at the Nags Head
public house on Mansfield road. This used to be the 'last' stop
for many unfortunate souls on their way to Gallows Hill.
Prisoners were offered their last drink here. It is reported
that one such prisoner refused his last drink and was duly
hanged just as his reprieve was granted - too late- if only
he'd took his last drink!
Lincolnshire Poacher
Walk a little further
down the road and cross over to reach your next stop. A warm
friendly welcome awaits you at The Lincolnshire Poacher. On
offer are a fine selection of 'real ales' and whiskies in an
atmosphere that encourages conversation - no TV's or thumping
beats here! Originally known as the 'Old Grey Nags Head', there
has been a pub here since 1831.
The Peacock
Onwards to The Peacock. This
pub has a Victorian feel to it. Comprising of two bars complete
with buttons for service - you can get a decent pint of
Guinness here.
Golden Fleece
Ever onwards to the Golden Fleece. You can view the deep
sandstone cellars through the glass floor whilst drinking a
fine malt whiskey or one of twelve polish vodkas on sale.
Nottingham is built on sandstone through which run a labrynth
of caves and tunnels. They were used for all sorts of reasons
including air raid shelters during WW11.
Bell Inn
You will need a bit of a walk
after that - so it's on into the centre of town and the Bell
Inn. This is one of the oldest pubs in England. Originally two
buildings, you can walk down the old alley which separated
them. There are tours available if you want to know more about
the history whilst enjoying a good pint of Refectory Ale.
The Royal Children
Walk towards the Castle and find the Royal Children on Hounds
Gate. It is thought that the pub got its name when the
grandchildren of King James 1 were accommodated here during the
last days of his reign in the seventeenth century. The sign
outside incorporates a whalebone from the days when whale oil
was used as fuel.
The Salutation Inn
A stones throw from the
Royal Children you will find the Salutation Inn. Dating from
the fifteenth century, it is thought to have been a guest house
owned by a religious order. The name refers to the 'Salutation'
given to Mary by the Archangel Gabriel as depicted on the
sign.
Beneath the pub are caves which are said to be haunted. Ghost
walks start from here each week. I've been down there - it
really is quite spooky!
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
If you're still
standing this pub offers a fitting end to your journey. Built
in 1189, this is purportedly the oldest pub in England (if not
the world); it was a favourite of Crusaders en route to
Jerusalem in the times of Richard the Lionheart. Built into the
castle rock the place is steeped in history and legend.
Discover and discuss over one of many hand- pulled ales on
offer - the foods good too!
Finish your tour with a stroll up cobbled streets and view the
floodlit Castle and statue of Robin Hood.
Nottingham also has a lot of hotels in and around the City
centre. Please don't try to sleep-off your pub tour on a park
bench!
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Ann Coveney is a freelance writer and part time
school teacher. She can be hired to write
articles on a wide range of topics. The web
site she uses the most for low cost travel and
hotel booking is http://www.AskVicki.co.uk
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Article Source: http://www.bb-articles.com
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