What's happening to the Royal Albion?

Boards and scaffolding are up around this old pub, which started life in 1689, received its first licence in 1730, was rebuilt in 1831, and reopened as the Albion Hotel in 1832 as a coaching inn. It continued as a hotel until 1894, when it evolved as a public house...

Now, Bob and others are going to reopen this freehouse as a music venue, real ale house, and I'd suspect there will be food available too... Looking forward to it!

Harold Godwinson lived? Update...

I have discussed before amateur historian Peter Burke's theory that Harold didn't die in 1066, but lived for another 40 years. I have been in touch with him again recently, and he confirms that a body was found buried where he was searching at Waltham Abbey, however, English Heritage wouldn't give permission for an excavation.

Peter still believes in his theory and the early 12th century document he found at the British Museum, the Vita Harold, and has had another television documentary recorded, which he expects to be aired on the History Channel, probably next year. For now, though, Harold appears to remain an enigma... 

Yes, 6.5% Kieran!

Sorry to brag, but CHEERS!

By Steve the Beermeister

Indeed! Sorry, but yesterday, I drank the last 2 pints of the excellent Sussex-brewed Dark Star (website) Green Hopped IPA (6.5%) at the Dolphin Inn at Rock-a-Nore. Just great timing, I suppose... Brewed using 'fresh English hops', actually Simcoe hops, to brew this obviously very seasonal ale, ideally, hops are picked on the day of the brew! Yet again, this year, an excellent ale has been produced, with a deep amber hue and fruity aroma, the taste is fruity, but dry, not particularly sweet, then leaving a dry bitter aftertaste, exceptional, indeed, cheers!   

Sunday - All Saints Day

The Black Huts Festival continues at the Electric Palace, High Street, in the old town today, with Timothy Neat at 1pm; a homage to the poet Lynette Roberts from 3.15pm, including contributions from her daughter, Angharad Rhys, Patrick McGuinness and Charles Mundye; and a double bill of films from 8pm, Recluse and Vanished! A Video Seance (website). 

Of course, the Herring Fair continues at 11am (website). Here are a few photographs from the Stade 'Open Space' yesterday, though a bit gloomy.   

 Dignitaries awaiting the opening. 

Though I didn't notice any herring!

There was music too

And people enjoyed the food, despite the gloom, though sunnier today, thankfully!