Dick Turpin hideout The Cock Inn could reopen with ‘sympathetic upgrade’
A VILLAGE pub associated with highwayman Dick Turpin could soon relaunch with a “major refurbishment”.
Grade II-listed The Cock Inn, in Sibson, was shut down in November 2019, to the disappointment of many.
The pub dates back more than 750 years and Dick Turpin is said to have once sought refuge there from the authorities.
Star Pubs and Bars, part of the Heineken group, owns the idyllic thatched pub and is hoping to give it a “sympathetic upgrade”, subject to recruiting a new operator.
A spokesman said: “At almost 800 years old, The Cock Inn is a listed building.
“It is blessed with original features including exposed beams, open fireplaces, and cosy rooms.
“The refurbishment will retain these features and highlight the pub’s traditional character and charm, whilst sympathetically upgrading it, making it more welcoming and comfortable and adding new contemporary furniture. An alfresco area will also be added at the rear of the pub.
“This site offers fabulous potential to a licensee looking to create a great pub known for its food and drink.”
Inside the distinctive rural pub was a wooden board which detailed its history.
On it was inscribed: “One of the oldest inns in England built in about 1250 AD, it witnessed the preparation and aftermath of the Battle of Bosworth Field and the death of Richard III and the start of the Tudor reign.
“The notorious highwayman Dick Turpin would return here after working the Watling Street, taking refuge in the bar chimney, stabling his horse in the cellar when pursuit was close at hand.
“The lawn at the rear was the site of a cock pit as recently as 1870.
“The inn owned by the church with a six-day licence was sold in 1935. A seven-day licence was granted in 1954.
“Existing stabling was converted in 1960 into the stable grill.”
If you are interested in taking on the pub, more details are available on the Star Pubs and Bars website, or by calling 08085 949 596.