The George Inn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids George Inn |
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Public House | |
George Inn galleries
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Country | England |
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Municipality | London |
Location | Southwark, High Borough Street |
Style | Georgian era |
Material | Wood |
Founded | 17th Century |
Date | 1667 |
Visitation | Owned by the National Trust |
The George Inn is a very old and famous public house (which people often call a pub) located in Southwark, London. It stands on the east side of Borough High Street, not far from London Bridge. This historic building is special because it is the very last "galleried inn" left in London. A galleried inn is a type of old hotel with open walkways, or galleries, on the upper floors.
People say that the famous writer William Shakespeare might have even acted in a similar galleried inn that used to be on this same spot! The George Inn you see today was built in 1677. In the past, it was a very important stop for coaches and travelers. The famous author Charles Dickens even wrote about this inn in his book Little Dorrit.
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What Makes The George Inn Special?
The George Inn is famous for its long, wooden exterior galleries. These walkways are the only way to get from one room to another on the first and second floors. Imagine walking outside to get to your room!
Inside, you can find different areas. Downstairs, there is a "Victorian coffee room." This means it was designed in the style popular during Queen Victoria's time. Upstairs, there is a large dining room with wooden panels on the walls.
Who Owns The George Inn?
Today, The George Inn is owned by the National Trust. This is a special organization in the United Kingdom. Their job is to protect and preserve historic places and natural beauty for everyone to enjoy. They make sure that important places like The George Inn are kept safe and open for visitors.
A Journey Through Time
The George Inn has a long and interesting history. It has been a pub and a place for travelers for hundreds of years.
The Great Fire and Rebuilding
The original inn on this site was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. This huge fire burned down much of the city. After the fire, the current George Inn was built in 1677. It was rebuilt quickly because it was so important for travel and business.
A Hub for Travelers
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the George Inn was a busy "coaching inn." This meant it was a place where horse-drawn coaches would stop. Travelers could rest, eat, and change horses. It was like a modern-day rest stop and hotel all in one! Mail and goods were also transported by these coaches, making the inn a vital part of London's transport network.
Images for kids
References
- Fedden, Robin and Rosemary Joekes. 1973. The National Trust Guide to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. 3rd edition. Norton. pgs. 339-340. ISBN: 0-393-01876-8.