THE GEORGE INN

On my recent trip to London I found myself wondering what it must have been like to go for a drink in London on a typical night out in the earlier, simpler times. After a quick Google search, luck would have it that such a place still exists today as a National Trust protected site! (this is also occurring after I accidentally travelled about an hour in the wrong direction, to the Prospect of Whitby which will get its own honourable mention later on) by excitement peaked as I approached the large green gates also a costumed greeter by the door, looking for those participating in the tour. The timely outfit he donned was an excellent choice, with the personality to match. With my first glance before being able to enter, I could already see a glow coming from the lovely lighting inside.

Dating from the 17th century, this public house (leased to a private company) is London's last remaining galleried inn. - National Trust

Walking into the courtyard over the cobbled stones, I found myself surrounded by metal beer kegs stacked in pretty fashion, in different spots around the open plan space. Bold green plaques on the wall told the story of the in and how it was rebuilt after devastating fire in 1676. This was also the first time I'd heard of something called a coaching inn. I imagined patrons coming in and enjoying a light meal before setting off all the journeys down the only southern route out of London at the time.

I looked up at what was left of the old coaching inn and its galleries, you could see the joy of everyone having fun in each window, whether it was the bar or restaurant. I treated myself to a cider from the tap of a hole in the wall courtside bar, to sip under the George Inn sign adorning its side.

There are many original features inside the pub, dating back to the 19th, 18th and 17th centuries, and there is possible reuse of medieval beams and stone. - alondoninheritance.com

I took a small staircase that led me up to the first gallery and restaurant, where they had laid out a few tables with chairs on the gallery balcony. I sought out a comfy stool and sipped my crisp cider, while looking out among the growing evening crowd, the restaurant behind me filled with patrons and surrounded by decorations of the 70s. If you're looking for a calm but vibrant way to see in the weekend at the end of a long week, this is definitely your place.

Happy historical dining! T x