“Fancy a pint in a place where Shakespeare might have pondered his plays?” That is The George Inn. It stands before you. This isn’t just any pub. It’s a portal to London’s past. The George Inn is Southwark’s gem.
Let’s step back in time to the medieval period. The George Inn first emerged. It was then known as the George and Dragon. The name celebrated Saint George’s triumph over the dragon. Imagine travelers arriving here centuries ago. They sought rest and refreshment. They needed respite from their journeys.
The George Inn boasts a unique title. It is London’s only surviving galleried coaching inn. Picture this. Open-air galleries line the courtyard. They offer a glimpse into a bygone era. These galleries once bustled with activity. Guests could access their rooms directly from the courtyard.
In 1676 disaster struck. A fire ravaged Southwark. The George Inn was consumed. Yet from the ashes rose a new George Inn. It was rebuilt in 1677. It retained its distinctive timber-framed structure. The George Inn became a symbol of resilience.
Did you know that The George Inn has literary connections? Charles Dickens frequented this very spot. He immortalized it in “Little Dorrit” and “Our Mutual Friend”. Imagine Dickens sitting in the Coffee Room. He observed the characters around him. He gathered inspiration for his novels. The Middle Bar was once the Coffee Room.
The Great Northern Railway once owned The George Inn. They planned to demolish parts of it for warehousing. Thankfully, they recognized its historical value. The railway sold it to the National Trust in 1937. The National Trust safeguards it for future generations.
The George Inn has unique architectural features. The Parliament Bar was a waiting room for coach passengers. The bedrooms upstairs are now a restaurant. It still echoes with stories of travelers.
The George Inn is more than just a pub. It is a Grade I listed building. It is recognized for its historic interiors. The George Inn stands as a testament to London’s rich history. It invites you to step inside. Enjoy a pint. Soak up the atmosphere. Become part of its ongoing story.