Hidden Henley

THIS picture shows the last piece of evidence that the Old Crown Inn in the Skirmett did exist.

It’s difficult to appreciate that parts of this building may be 15th or 16th century and just how quaint and traditional this former Brakspear pub was until comparatively recently.

Like so many Hidden Henley subjects, it’s easy to walk or cycle past what is now a private house and not notice the clues to its past.

The hanging sign may have gone but I remember calling in the pub with my father back in the early Seventies and found it disconcerting as it seemed as if you had accidentally walked into someone’s living room.

The usual pub bar was absent but the landlord appeared and took your order before disappearing down to the cellar and then reappeared with your drinks order.