The Duke of York, Lichfield
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Published June 17th 2015
Step back in time to enjoy a great pub visit
A visit to the Duke of York is like stepping back in time.
This ancient pub is regarded as the oldest inn within the historic cathedral city of Lichfield.
And traditional beer drinkers, as well as history buffs, will be delighted to know that it retains much of its olde worlde features and charm.
Visitors to the Duke of York, which sits at the top of the city, on Greenhill, are greeted by a brief history of the pub in the front bar which has remained pretty much unchanged over the centuries.
In fact, the pub is said to trace its origins to the mid 17th century, and was supposedly named during the celebrations to mark Prince James (later to become King James II) being created the Duke of York.
A lower bar was added some 200 years ago by converting a neighbouring cottage, but little else has changed over the years, with the ancient oak beams a special reminder of times past.
Today, the main thing that time travellers may notice is that the rear of the pub sits directly opposite a giant Tesco supermarket.
But fortunately there is a better than usual beer garden, lovingly stocked with colourful plants, to hide the view of the store and its car park.
Today, the Grade II listed Duke of York is owned by the Joule's Brewery and, as such, sells its equally popular Joule's Pale Ale, Joule's Blonde, and Joule's Slumbering Monk ales, as well as a regular guest beer and cider.
The enclosed beer garden is particularly pleasant during the summer months, but winter visitors will no doubt be greeted by a welcoming real fire in the front bar which also boasts a large inglenook, oak benches, and oak timber floor.
The rear bar, which used to be the coaching stables and now backs onto the beer garden. provides a separate area away from the main bar for people to enjoy a meal.
There is also a separate multi-purpose room called the Courtyard which also has a real fire.
Among the culinary delights on offer are a range of sandwiches, as well homemade soup, ploughman's and pork pie platters all day.
And, for something a little bit different, the Duke also has its own bowling green next door. But try not to have too many pints of Joule's before you give it a try.
Visitors should also note that the Duke of York is a pub for adults only and operates a strict No Under 18's Policy.
This ancient pub is regarded as the oldest inn within the historic cathedral city of Lichfield.
And traditional beer drinkers, as well as history buffs, will be delighted to know that it retains much of its olde worlde features and charm.
In fact, the pub is said to trace its origins to the mid 17th century, and was supposedly named during the celebrations to mark Prince James (later to become King James II) being created the Duke of York.
A lower bar was added some 200 years ago by converting a neighbouring cottage, but little else has changed over the years, with the ancient oak beams a special reminder of times past.
Today, the main thing that time travellers may notice is that the rear of the pub sits directly opposite a giant Tesco supermarket.
But fortunately there is a better than usual beer garden, lovingly stocked with colourful plants, to hide the view of the store and its car park.
Today, the Grade II listed Duke of York is owned by the Joule's Brewery and, as such, sells its equally popular Joule's Pale Ale, Joule's Blonde, and Joule's Slumbering Monk ales, as well as a regular guest beer and cider.
The enclosed beer garden is particularly pleasant during the summer months, but winter visitors will no doubt be greeted by a welcoming real fire in the front bar which also boasts a large inglenook, oak benches, and oak timber floor.
The rear bar, which used to be the coaching stables and now backs onto the beer garden. provides a separate area away from the main bar for people to enjoy a meal.
There is also a separate multi-purpose room called the Courtyard which also has a real fire.
Among the culinary delights on offer are a range of sandwiches, as well homemade soup, ploughman's and pork pie platters all day.
And, for something a little bit different, the Duke also has its own bowling green next door. But try not to have too many pints of Joule's before you give it a try.
Visitors should also note that the Duke of York is a pub for adults only and operates a strict No Under 18's Policy.
Why? A delightful pint in delightful, olde worlde surroundings
When: Every day
Phone: 01543 300 386
Where: 23/25 Greenhill, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6DY
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