Nestled along a Black Country high street stands a remarkable piece of history: The Bell Inn, a 430-year-old pub that has weathered centuries, including a devastating fire in the 1600s. This ancient establishment, which predates the founding of the United States by 186 years, offers a rare glimpse into the past, as it opens its doors only several times each year.
A Glimpse into Rarely Seen History
Located in the heart of Willenhall town centre on Market Place, The Bell Inn is no longer a functioning pub but is meticulously preserved by its co-owners, Wendy Evans and Ralph Jackson, both aged 82. There is no fixed schedule for public access; instead, the pub welcomes visitors on special occasions, such as Victory in Europe (VE) Day on May 8, allowing people to step inside and explore its storied halls.
Surviving the Flames of the Past
Believed to have been originally constructed around 1590, the pub bears a painted date of 1659 above its entrance. This marks the year it partially survived the Great Fire of Willenhall, a catastrophic event that destroyed most buildings in the town. The structure was subsequently rebuilt in 1660, with Mrs. Evans noting, "The pub survived the Great Fire of Willenhall." Mr. Evans added, "I think it's one of the oldest pubs in the country. The fire burnt down half of the building. It was rebuilt in 1660."
Preservation and Restoration Efforts
In 2010, Mrs. Evans and Mr. Jackson acquired the Grade-II listed building for £42,000. Since then, they have invested approximately £50,000 each of their own funds, supplemented by a £170,000 grant from Heritage England, to undertake a comprehensive restoration. This effort has transformed the pub into a time capsule, evoking the ambiance of the Black Country Living Museum.
Stepping Back in Time
Entering The Bell Inn feels like a journey through history, thanks to the meticulous care in its restoration. Key features include:
- A lounge area with a stone hearth, stone floor, and wooden beams across the ceiling, adorned with period-appropriate furniture and decorations.
- An exterior painted in olive green on the front door, window panes, and courtyard gate, with the pub's name highlighted in contrasting yellow.
- A courtyard displaying the Bell Inn's own pub sign, hanging from a pole for passers-by to see.
- Upstairs rooms, including one featuring a woman's mannequin dressed in clothes of the era, complemented by more wooden beams on the walls and ceiling.
The restoration remains an ongoing project, with the owners dedicated to maintaining this historic gem for future generations.
