The George Inn confirmed as England's oldest pub

The George Inn in Norton St Philip, Somerset, has been officially recognized as the oldest continually licensed drinking establishment in England. The determination was made by Historic England following an investigation by building archaeologist Dr. James Wright.

To settle long-standing disputes among various establishments, Dr. Wright utilized dendrochronology—the scientific dating of timber through tree-ring analysis—alongside physical and documentary evidence. The analysis of the building's wooden beams confirmed that its fabrics date back to the late 14th century.

The inn was originally commissioned by Carthusian monks from the nearby Hinton Priory to serve merchants visiting the monastery's markets and fairs. It played a significant role in the local wool trade, providing overnight stays and storage for goods.