This is a new edition of English Heritage`s widely acclaimed study of that great British institution, the public house. First published in 2004, this was described as the best history of the pub available. Now updated & corrected, it offers a scholarly, yet accessible history of the origins of the pub & its development since medieval times. Alcoholic beverages have long formed a part of British culture & over the centuries the authorities have made strenuous efforts to control the form & operation of public drinking establishments (with varying degrees of success!). The Golden Age of pub-building was at the end of the nineteenth century & many of the finest examples are illustrated here. It was brought about by a combination of forces which are all explored
- the influence of the Temperance Movement, competition from rival forms of entertainment, & efforts on the part of magistrates & government to improve the pub stock. The book contains a stunning photographic survey of our pub heritage & lists most of the finest & interesting surviving examples. This new edition also explains the changes that have affected pubs, their culture & appearance during the past seven years.