The name of this pub recalls the early years in the history of Hereford. The central area around the cathedral was the Bishop’s Fee (or property) and the rest (within the city walls) was the King’s Fee. Hereford’s ancient cathedral is dedicated to the city’s patron saint Ethelbert, the Saxon king murdered at the behest of King Offa on the outskirts of Hereford in AD794. During Offa’s reign, the city expanded. The extended area became known as the King’s Fee, the eastern part including the ancient priory of Saint Guthlac.
A print of Butchers’ Row.
A print of the Town Hall.
A print of David Garrick as Richard the Third.
A print of Nell Gwynne and her sons.
A print and text about theatrical connections.
The text reads: A plaque in Gwynne Street, by the cathedral, claims to mark the birthplace of actress Eleanor Gwyn. Better known as Nell Gwynne, she was the mistress of King Charles II. Their grandson, James Beauclerk, became Bishop of Hereford in 1746.
A plaque on the wall of the Angel Inn, in Widemarsh Street, records the birth there in 1717 of the renowned actor and stage manager David Garrick. He is best remembered for his thirty years in charge Drury Lane, where he set the tone of English theatrical taste.
External photograph of the building – main entrance.
If you have information on the history of this pub, then we’d like you to share it with us. Please e-mail all information to: pubhistories@jdwetherspoon.co.uk