From the rolling hills of the Mendips and Exmoor, to the wildlife-rich parkland of the Levels and Moors, Somerset (Land of the Summer People) is indeed a breathtaking sight to behold. Rich in history and folklore, this area is ideal for the visitor or tourist.
Somerset County, located in the southwest region of England, is the site of the last civil war fought in England. It is also home to Glastonbury Abbey, which, according to legend, is the birthplace of Christianity in this country. Other “must-see” sights in Somerset include the village of Cheddar - birthplace of Cheddar cheese and site of the famous Cheddar Gorge - and Wells, the smallest “city” in England. This picturesque city is home to the magnificent Wells Cathedral, and it has one of the most pristine high streets in Europe. For those who would like to see the sites on foot, walking trails are abundant in Somerset County.
Somerset villages large and small have something wonderful in common: the famous English public house, or “pub.” For hundreds of years the word “pub” has meant food, beer and other beverages served in comfortable surroundings. Pubs are believed to have originated in the English speaking countries of England and Ireland. Travelers on pilgrimages in medieval times would seek lodging in various monasteries along their way. As more people started traveling from place to place, pubs began to offer overnight lodging too. Today it is very common to have pubs or inns offer accommodations to visitors on their travels.
In the 1300’s, the government required that all pubs hang a sign on the front of their establishment so that inspectors could identify where ale was being sold. As many people could not read, it became customary that these signs contain a picture representing the identity of the pub.
In more recent years, the typical village pub has evolved into a social gathering place for villagers or townspeople. The pub is the place to find celebrations for marriages, christenings, anniversaries and birthdays. Locals regularly stop by looking for a pint of ale and some good conversation, or a friendly game of skittles, darts, Shove ha’penny or a pub quiz. Patrons enjoy bar snacks such as crisps, pickled eggs and peanuts as they watch football or rugby on large screen televisions with their friends.
Full-service pubs typically offer lodging including cottage accommodations to let, function rooms and one or more skittle alleys. Meals for special occasions such as Christmas or family events are often available. Some pubs have mobile equipment such as marquees or tents that can be set up outdoors for serving beverages on those special occasions.
Indeed, the village pub is an important part of English culture. Residents who grow up in the area know how important the pubs are; visitors and tourists from other countries can get the same feeling themselves by visiting one or more pubs during their stay. They’ll experience the warmth of the English people, the history of the area and the comfort these establishments offer to all who drop by.
Sadly, the village pub is a bit of an endangered species. Three years ago pubs were closing down at a rate of one per day. Today, an average of four pubs closes every day due to the high costs associated with running a pub, made worse by excessive taxes on everything from licenses to alcohol products. After a recent budget announcement, the rate of pub closures is expected to rise to six or more every day! As taxes increase the cost of running a pub, more and more of them are expected to close their doors as the publican can no longer make a profit in the trade. With the increase in property values, it is becoming a more viable option for publicans to close down and then sell off, because their property is worth more as residential housing than as a public house. This most beloved of English traditions is being defeated by its own worst enemy…the British government.
So, residents of England, make sure you support your local pub! And if you’re visiting the area on holiday, make sure you experience a bit of English tradition by patronizing one of Somerset’s legendary pubs! Cheers!
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