The Fleur de Lys: A Historic Pub with a World-Famous Pie Legacy
Nestled in the quiet village of Lowsonford, near Hockley Heath in Warwickshire, The Fleur de Lys pub stands as a testament to culinary heritage, boasting a pie-making tradition that has gained international acclaim. This historic inn, originally a row of three 15th-century cottages, has evolved from canal workers' accommodation to a beloved tavern, with its pie legacy now revived through the award-winning Lowsonford Pie Company.
From Medieval Origins to Modern Artisan Creations
The story of pies at The Fleur de Lys dates back centuries, with roots in the Middle Ages when such dishes were known as 'coffyns.' The pub's own pie journey began in the early 20th century when it first opened as a tavern, pioneering the idea of serving food to patrons. By the 1930s, the licensee had installed a bread oven—still visible today—and started cooking the now-famous Steak & Kidney and Chicken & Mushroom pies.
During the 1950s, the pub began serving pies through a kitchen hatch, drawing crowds from across the Midlands. It supplied chip shops throughout the county, becoming a staple treat. Under licensee Mr. Brookes from 1950 to 1958, production expanded to Emscote Mill in Warwick, which became the home of Fleur de Lys pie production, distributing nationwide.
Preserving Tradition Through the Lowsonford Pie Company
In 1964, the original recipe was sold, and the factory was eventually demolished in 1993. However, determined to keep the legacy alive, current landlords Emma and Nick Woodhouse launched The Lowsonford Pie Company in 2018. This venture ensures that handmade pies, encased in shortcrust pastry with a puff pastry lid, are once again sought after, served fresh from The Fleur de Lys kitchen.
Today, the pub offers 11 flavours of artisan pies, accompanied by chunky chips, seasonal vegetables, and gravy. Pies are available to take away, chilled or frozen, for just £6. The Lowsonford Pie Company has received national recognition, with success at The National Pie Awards in 2021, 2023, and 2024.
A Cozy, Family-Focused Pub with Deep Roots
Emma and Nick Woodhouse took over the pub from Greene King nearly 12 years ago, transforming it into a family-focused establishment while honouring its character. Emma recalls, "We knew immediately this place could be an absolute treasure chest. It's the perfect location and exactly what you think an Old English country pub would be like."
The pub features log fires in winter and a beautiful canal-side garden in summer, creating a cozy atmosphere. Emma adds, "We strive to make people feel like they’re home away from home, so that whenever you're here, there's nowhere else you’d rather be."
The Fleur de Lys, named after the heraldic symbol of a lily flower, continues to be a cherished part of West Midlands heritage, blending history with modern culinary excellence.
