The English pub, a unique social phenomenon, is under threat. Across the country hundreds have closed in recent years due to social and economic factors and government policies. Historically, Ashbourne has always been blessed with a wealth of public houses, due to its location as a market town and as an important staging post. For example in the mid 1850’s with a population of around 3,300 Ashbourne could boast 36 pubs. Where was the Gaping Goose or the Durham Ox? Whilst the number of pubs has certainly dwindled since the mid Victorian period, this last year has actually seen the arrival of a new pub in the town - The Stepping Stones!

This two hour talk/workshop has three elements to it: initially, a historical look at pubs in England, secondly, a historical look at pubs in Ashbourne and finally an information sharing exercise on Ashbourne pubs. Breathing life into History ...

What do we know about the pubs of Ashbourne?

Danny Wells : Breathing Life into History

The George & Dragon Photo Craig Thornber