The Bear Inn, in its present form as an operational inn, has a history dating back 250 years to its first recording as an inn in 1774. The building it currently occupies is significantly older, dating from 1606, making it 418 years old.
The History and Age of The Bear Inn
The age of The Bear Inn can be understood through different historical milestones, reflecting the longevity of its physical structure and its operational history as a public house.
The Present Building's Age
The existing building that houses The Bear Inn was constructed in 1606. Initially, this structure served as an ostler's house, catering to those who managed horses at an inn.
- Current Age of the Building (as of 2024): 2024 - 1606 = 418 years old.
The Establishment as an Inn
While the building is from the 17th century, it was first formally recorded as an inn, known then as the Jolly Trooper, in 1774. This marks the beginning of its operational history as a public house.
- Current Age as an Operating Inn (as of 2024): 2024 - 1774 = 250 years old.
Later, this establishment adopted the distinguished name "The Bear." This name has a deeper historical lineage, originating from a much larger coaching inn also called The Bear, which was prominent from the 13th century. This ancient coaching inn extended from the current site all the way to the High Street, and while the present Bear Inn carries on this historic name, its current physical structure and its status as an operational inn date from more recent times.
Key Historical Milestones
To summarize the various ages associated with The Bear Inn:
| Event | Year | Age (as of 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Present Building Built | 1606 | 418 years | The year the current physical structure was constructed. |
| First Recorded as an Inn | 1774 | 250 years | Operated under the name "the Jolly Trooper." |
| Original "The Bear" Inn | 13th Century | Over 724 years | The large coaching inn from which the name was adopted. |
It is important to note that while the name "The Bear" connects to a heritage dating back to the 13th century, the exact year for the original coaching inn from that century is not specified. Therefore, a precise, single age for the original "The Bear" cannot be calculated beyond "dating from the 13th century." The "exact answers" provided reflect the precise construction date of the present building and its first recording as an operating inn.
