Historic guide to our hostelries

Frequenting pubs and quaffing ale has always been a popular pastime.
Luton-born author James MooreLuton-born author James Moore
Luton-born author James Moore

Now Luton-born author James Moore and co-writer Paul Nero have brought out the definitive directory to this most British of institutions.

Titled Ye Olde Good Inn Guide, it lists more than 250 of our oldest pubs and hotels - including Luton’s Red Lion and The White Horse in Dunstable – together with fascinating facts about drinking habits in times gone by.

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Although three or four pints was the usual intake, it wasn’t uncommon for some thirsty regulars to down a gallon of ale – eight pints – in a day.

It makes today’s figures seem modest in comparison – the average adult drinks around 11.5 units a week, the equivalent of four pints.

Freelance journalist James, 41, who has five books under his belt, said: “It’s important to remember the vital role pubs played in our communities.”

His favourite is The Ostrich in Colnbrook where the landlord did away with 60 of his guests by releasing a trapdoor under their beds.

> Learn more by visiting www.historicpubguide.com

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