The Free Trade in Berwick still retains many of its traditional features
The Free Trade in Berwick.(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
Punters who step into this Northumberland pub may feel like they are stepping back in time. Located on the Castlegate in Berwick, the Free Trade is unique with its stain glass window and tiled frontage.
Dating back to 1847, the Free Trade is the town’s oldest pub and still retains many of traditional features. Inside you will find a wood panelled interior to the front along with its originally bar counter, while the back was once the smoke room it is now used for pool.
The room has bell pushes and an attractive brick and tile fireplace. The pub is one of CAMRA’s Historic pub interiors of national importance and was refitted around 1910.
The CAMRA website states: “Built in 1847 and with no major alterations since 1910 this is one of only two pubs in the huge county of Northumberland currently on CAMRA’s National Inventory of Pub Interiors of Outstanding Historic Interest.
“An absolutely marvellous family-run gem of a pub and still “Berwick’s Bonniest Boozer”. Full of character and characters happily returned to the real ale fold in spring 2012.”
Celebrating the Free Trade era, it has been a popular spot for tourists and workers due to its location near the railway station. The name has less to do with it being a free trade zone and is reflection of years conflict and shifting control between Scotland and England.
Earlier this year the pub was also named one of the Best England by The Telegraph. The list highlighted venues which have stood out for their charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and award-winning beer.
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