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 Northampton author of 'Last Orders: A History and Directory of Northampton Pubs' - show some of Northampton's old stomping grounds.Dave's self-published book has sold more than 2,000 copies. Call 07939990790 or email [email protected] to buy a copy.
5. The Foundryman's Arms in St James' Road
Dave said: "It’s always a pleasure to report about a pub that’s still with us. It first appeared in 1864 and must have opened at about this time as when it was being sold in 1867 it was described as a ‘newly built’ public house. It had the odd arrest and fight over the years but there wasn’t anything out of the ordinary although a couple of waist high floods would distinguish it from a lot of places in the book." Photo: Logan MacLeod
6. The Blue Anchor
Dave said: "The Blue Anchor was at the end of Castle Street, by the junction of Horsemarket. The earliest mention I could find was in 1841, although when it was being sold in 1858, it was described as being in business for nineteen years, which takes us to 1839, which is quite satisfying. So often it’s difficult to find a definitive opening date for pubs, there are times when they have been open for years before they acquired a ‘sign’ so this was a rare result. It was yet another place which had its licence taken away, this one in 1908. It’s total trade for 1907 was a mere £85 so I’m surprised it was still trading at all." Photo: Logan MacLeod