It has been a year since the tragic fire that engulfed The Crooked House, Britain’s wonkiest pub, on August 5, 2023. The iconic pub, in Himley, near Dudley, known for its distinctive sloping walls and floors, was a beloved landmark in the West Midlands, attracting visitors from far and wide.
The fire, which is being treated as arson, led to the pub’s demolition just days later, sparking outrage and sadness among the local community.
On the night of August 5, 2023, emergency services received a call around 10 PM reporting that The Crooked House was ablaze. Despite the efforts of up to 30 firefighters, the fire rapidly consumed the historic building, and access to the site was hindered by mounds of soil.
Within 48 hours of the blaze, the pub was unexpectedly demolished , a move that many locals found deeply upsetting. The demolition was carried out without the necessary permissions from South Staffordshire Council, which had only permitted partial demolition for safety reasons. This led to an investigation into the legality of the demolition and calls for enforcement action against the owners
The Crooked House, originally built in 1765 as a farmhouse, gained its unique appearance due to mining subsidence in the early 19th century. Over the years, it became a popular destination, not just for its quirky architecture but also for the optical illusions it created, such as coins and marbles appearing to roll uphill along the bar.
In the aftermath of the fire, there has been a strong push from the community and local politicians to rebuild the pub "brick by brick". South Staffordshire Council has even issued an enforcement notice to the owners, requiring them to restore the pub to its former glory. The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has also called for action to protect pubs and prevent such tragedies from happening again.
As we mark the one-year anniversary of the fire, here’s a look back of The Crooked House:
1. A look back on the West Midlands' most beloved wonky pub, 'The Crooked House'
A crooked public house and outbuildings, leaning due to subsidence and soil erosion at Himley Street. Originally named The Glynne Arms, it later became known as the iconic 'The Crooked House'. | Getty Images
2. A look back on the West Midlands' most beloved wonky pub, 'The Crooked House'
Over the years, it became a popular destination, not just for its quirky architecture but also for the optical illusions it created | Getty Images
3. A look back on the West Midlands' most beloved wonky pub, 'The Crooked House'
A charming view of the iconic pub in modern day with its distinctive sloping walls. | Flickr
4. A look back on the West Midlands' most beloved wonky pub, 'The Crooked House'
The quirky interior where coins and marbles appeared to roll uphill. | SWNS