Pandy Inn steeped in 12th-century history
An historic 12th-century freehouse, which is reputed to be the oldest public house in Herefordshire, has been placed on the market.
The Bristol office of Christie & Co is handling the sale of the Pandy Inn, which stands opposite the village green in Dorstone, near Hay-on-Wye in the Herefordshire hills.
Selling agent Matthew Smith says it's believed the inn dates back to 1186.
"It is said that the inn was built by Richard Brito [a knight for King Henry II] one of the murderers of St Thomas à Becket
[the then Archbishop of Canterbury] to house workers building a chapel which he founded nearby in expiation of his crime.
"Oliver Cromwell is known to have taken respite at the Pandy Inn during the English Civil War in the 17th century."
The village of Dorstone is situated just off the B4348, some five miles to the east of Hay-on-Wye and 10 miles west of Hereford.
Local attractions include the earthworks of Dorstone Castle and Arthur's Stone, which covers the entrance to a Neolithic burial chamber.
Smith said the current proprietors, Paul and Marja Gardner, had owned and operated the Pandy Inn since 1998 and decided to sell it in order to move closer to their daughters in London.
"During their time at the inn, they have established an excellent food-led trade and a reputation for good, home-cooked food and real ales.
"The business is recommended by a string of publications, such as The Good Pub Guide, The Good Beer Guide, The AA Pub Guide and The Which?
Guide to Country Pubs."
The Pandy Inn is a detached property of great character with timber-beamed ceilings, flagstone floors and a vast open fireplace.
It comprises public bar and snug, 40-cover dining area, four-bedroom owner's accommodation, car park and trade gardens which overlook Pandy Field and Snod Hill.
Smith said the inn would appeal to buyers seeking a "lifestyle business" that provides a quality business in a sought-after location in the country.
Christie & Co is seeking £425,000 for the freehold interest of the Pandy Inn.
