The Skirrid Inn, Nr Abergavenny, Wales
Posted on 22. Mar, 2010 by Robert Gale in Pubs
The Skirrid Inn is Wales’ oldest pub and can trace its history back to 1110 when a man called James Crowther was hanged there for stealing a sheep. The pub was then known as Millbrook but has been known as the Skirrid Inn for many centuries.
James Crowther wasn’t the only man hanged at the Skirrid. Whilst there are no records of the numbers hanged there, local legend suggests that upwards of 180 persons were hanged between the 12th and 17th centuries when it is believed that the pub was also being used as a court. The last, as was the first, for sheep stealing in the time of Oliver Cromwell. Scorch marks on a beam at the top of a staircase at the rear of the pub suggest that people were hanged there.
The pub, located in Llanvihangel Crucorney, near Abergavenny, contains some original features including the stone structure. The front door of the pub is also old dating back to the 16th century.
The first room you enter is one of the larger rooms in the pub and the bare stone walls and flagstone floor makes it feel like you are walking into the original Millbrook inn. The huge fireplace heats the room and there is a small bar in the corner that was serving Brains Reverend James and Wickwar BOB.
Leading to the right is a small room with a bar used by locals to watch sports and next to that is a wood panelled dining room. The panelling is said to be from a British Man O War ship. To the rear of the pub is a dining room which is more modernly decorated.
Outside the pub is a mounting stone that was used by many kings to board their coaches and may possibly have been used by Owain Glyndwr to rally his troops.
The Skirrid is located on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons, a very picturesque part of the country. Nearby are the castles of Grosmont, Whitecastle and Skenfrith, Llanthony Priory and the old churches of Patrishow, Cwmyoy and Capel y Ffin.
Venue Location
The Skirrid Mountain Inn
Skirrid View
Abergavenny
NP7 8DH
Tel: 01873 890 258
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