The Fountain Inn, Gloucester facts for kids
The Fountain Inn is a really old and special pub located at 53 Westgate Street in Gloucester, England. It's not just any building; it's officially recognized as a "grade II listed" place. This means it's protected because of its important history and unique design.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Fountain Inn has a very long history! It was first mentioned in a special document from 1455. This document was like an old record book from the Abbey (a type of monastery) that listed properties. Imagine, people were visiting this spot even before many famous historical events happened!
The building you see today has changed over many years. Some parts of it are from the late 1500s, which is the 16th century. But most of the pub was rebuilt in the late 1600s (the 17th century). It was then changed a bit in the 1700s (18th century) and got a new look around 1900. Each change adds to its long story!
What is a Grade II Listed Building?
When a building is "grade II listed," it means it's considered very important and special. The government protects these buildings to make sure they are looked after for future generations. It's like saying, "This building is a piece of history, and we want to keep it safe!"
There are different grades for listed buildings:
- Grade I: These are buildings of exceptional interest. They are the most important.
- Grade II*: These are particularly important buildings of more than special interest.
- Grade II: These are buildings of special interest, which warrant every effort to preserve them. The Fountain Inn falls into this category.
Being listed means that if anyone wants to make big changes to the building, they need special permission. This helps to keep its historic features and character safe. The Fountain Inn is a great example of how old buildings can still be used and enjoyed today, while also preserving their amazing past.