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The Blood of The Royalist |
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The town was an important tactical location during the civil war in the 17th Century. The final battle between the Royalists and Parliamentarians is said to have taken place on the street outside the inn, hence its modern name, 'The Royalist'.
The inn has been altered considerably in recent years, though it still retains many of its original features. The bar was once a pit where blood sports would take place.
The pit would have been used for cockfighting and even, according to some, bear-baiting. This gruesome spectacle would often involve setting a pack of dogs on the bear, and the crowd would bet on the outcome.
Spectator sports were encouraged throughout the Tudor period, often coinciding with festivals, and blood sports were particularly popular during the reign of Elizabeth I.
These so-called sports would be unthinkable for many today - obviously the Tudors didn't feel that elements of their culture were barbaric.
Blood sports involving packs of dogs remain a part of national culture, although in recent times these sports have received stiff opposition, both from the public and from government groups.
Today the inn still serves its original purpose. Visitors can enjoy the history of the building and the varied stories linked to it. The Royalist may not see bloody days again.
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