These snaps of historic Northampton pubs have been dug up from the archives by local historian Dave Knibb
So many fondly-remembered Northampton pubs have shut their doors over the years but are still in the memories of their customers.
These photos - researched by Dave Knibb, the author of 'Last Orders: A History and Directory of Northampton Pubs' - show some of Northampton's historic stomping grounds.
Dave's self-published book has sold more than 2,000 copies. Call 07939990790 or email [email protected] to buy a copy.
Dave's self-published book has sold more than 2,000 copies. Call 07939990790 or email [email protected] to buy a copy.
5. Pedestrian Tavern in Woolmonger Street
Dave said: "The first purchases made by the Northampton Brewery Company (NBC) in 1859 included the Pedestrian Tavern when it was run by John Payne. As Mr Payne had only started getting mentions in the press in the same year, it’s likely that the pub had either only just opened or had just been given a ‘sign’. It was on the corner of St James Place and Woolmonger Street and enjoyed a loyal, if occasionally rowdy clientele. After a fairly lively century of business, it closed around the end of the 1950s." Photo: Dave Knibb
Dave said: "Great Billing was owned largely by the Elwes family for a hundred years or so, the village falling within the estate of Billing Hall. The Stag’s Head, its former name, was presumably owned by the family and the earliest date I can find for it was from 1817. During the 19th Century it appeared a lot more than other village pubs and inns in the local press. To a large extent it was because of the frequent auctions that it held for timber and produce, but also for the amount of inquests that were held there. Apart from a rash of cases of drunken and unruly after hours drinking being reported in the 1870s and 80s from and one or two drunken and unruly landlords, the Elwes has continued with its low ceilings and ‘village’ feel to the present day." Photo: Dave Knibb