THE county is spoiled for choice when it comes to fascinating old pubs - so here are more to enjoy across Worcestershire this Bank Holiday weekend.
After the list we published last time, here are a few more of Worcestershire's best old world pubs to pique your interest and whet your appetitie.
The previous list featured the Cardinal's Hat, King Charles House and the Fleece Inn in Bretforton, near Evesham to name but a few.
However, it was never meant to be an exhaustive list so this one contains some other gems to conjure up the atmosphere of bygone days whether it be the crackling fireside at the Paul Pry (which would not look out of place in an episode of Peaky Blinders) or the snug timber-framed King's Arms in Ombersley, there is something to suit every taste.
The Paul Pry
This pub in The Butts was built to serve the nearby cattle market and named after a popular theatrical character of the time. The pub is known for its fantastic Sunday Roasts. The pub won the Travellers' Choice award in 2022 and has a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor. It is hard to believe such a beautiful old pub could have been allowed to stand empty for so many years - but the renaissance has well and truly begun now.
A spokesperson for the pub said: "Today, The Paul Pry is a beautiful example of a well-preserved late Victorian pub. Boasting original tiles, flooring and back bar, it is like stepping back to a bygone era."
Paul Pry is known as a comical, idle, meddlesome and mischievous fellow consumed with curiosity who conveniently leaves behind his umbrella in order to have an excuse to return and eavesdrop, often using the catchphrase ‘I hope I don’t intrude’. In the end, however, Pry becomes a hero for rescuing papers from a well.
The Plough
The Plough in Fish Street is a stone's throw from Worcester Cathedral and has a quality all its own and is a great pub to sample local ales. Last month they advertised serving Ledbury Ales including HMS Ledbury and Zwodder pale ale (Beowulf Brewing Company).
The grade II listed building itself is early to mid 18th century with later additions and alterations and has a beer garden, perfect at this time of year to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend. Or, if the weather turns out grim, the Plough has a snug and atmospheric interior. The pub is also known for a great musical tradition, playing host to the likes of Will Killeen.
Oil Basin Brewhouse
This pub in Copenhagen Street, Worcester blends the modern and traditional seamlessly. It is now a popular pub and brewery with a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor.
READ MORE: A guide to the oldest and most interesting pubs in Worcestershire
READ MORE: Best canalside pubs in Worcestershire - a short guide
The grade II listed building dates back to 1558 but was partly rebuilt in 1717 by Charles Green. Later work and renovation followed in 1792 and the 1980s. The building is timber frame with pinkish-red brick facade. Christopher Dighton built this as an investment property, leasing the site from the Dean and Chapter of Worcester Cathedral.
He rented it to Susan Billingham, then to John Hill. In 1640 the house was leased by the Dean and Chapter to Edmond Thomason (d.1697). His widow turned it into an alehouse, The Phoenix. True to form it has risen from the ashes to become one of the city's most popular pubs.
The King's Arms in Ombersley
The timber-framed grade II listed former house, now a public house, dates back to the 15th century. The interior features a floral design, a
mermaid and a Tudor rose. The house is traditionally believed to have received Charles II after the Battle of Worcester. King Charles House in Worcester (featured in the last article) was also said to have formed the backdrop to his escape. The business features 'legendary pub classics with delightfully fresh modern twists, naughty nibbles to mighty mains'.
In terms of drinks there is 'an anthology of expertly crafted cask ales' and 'expertly distilled gins, velvety reds, crisp whites and soft pinks'.
The pub offers Sunday Roasts.
Imperial Tavern, Worcester
With its graceful furnishings and gleaming lanterns, the Imperial Tavern in St Nicholas Street conjures up a bygone age of old world style and elegance which many might imagine had almost vanished entirely from Worcester.
Every wall is covered in large framed black and white photos of the city which celebrate, and indeed make a feature of, its illustrious history.
Royal Oak, Evesham
The Royal Oak in Vine Street, Evesham is a Grade II listed building.
The dog-friendly pub features oak beams, 'rustic decor', and 'cosy fireside nooks'. A spokesperson for the pub said: "Our bar is the perfect place to meet friends for a morning coffee, a lazy lunch, or a family Sunday roast. Where you feel you’re right at home. Rain or shine, for any reason. After work, before work or to do work. For family get-togethers, party nights, or cosy nights. From coffees to cocktails, bubbles to beer. We’ve got food and drink to suit every taste."
Ye Olde Red Horse in Evesham
This pub in Vine Street, Evesham is another building preserving the historic fabric of the town, dating from the 16th century and close to the old Evesham Abbey and the Almonry Museum which itself dates to the 14th century.
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