No, you’re not seeing things. This pub really is that wonky. The Crooked House near Birmingham is legendary for its slanted lean to the side. It’s disorientating enough when sober. After a couple of real ales? You’ll struggle to stand straight! But now Britain’s wonkiest pub is up for sale.
The Crooked House has stood in the West Midlands village of Himley – on the outskirts of Dudley – for 192 years. Originally built as a country house in 1765, it transformed into a pub in the 1830s. Its crooked nature was later caused by mining in the nineteenth century – and only remains upright thanks to structural supports made from brick and metal.
But locals are worried this might be the end for The Crooked House. Marston’s, the pub company that currently owns this wonky pub, have announced many of its non-core venues are to be sold off. The group has placed 61 of its pubs on the market – of which The Crooked House is one.
“The pub sector has been very resilient over the last few years and has adapted well to the challenges and despite interest in the sector there is a lack of properties on the market,” said Noel Moffitt, senior director of corporate pubs and restaurants at Christie & Co (which is looking after the sale). “This portfolio offers new entrants and existing operators a wonderful opportunity to acquire investments or operate their own businesses.”
It has been listed with a guide price of £675,000. According to its listing, it comes with three trading areas including a separate restaurant, as well as an external car parking with 20 spaces, a children’s play area, a beer garden and allotments.
The Crooked House might be funny to look at, but to the people of Himley, it’s a huge part of the community. (The venue has even hosted several weddings!) So we pray someone steps in quickly. Because The Crooked House to continue it will need a buyer.
To learn more about the pub head here.