Have you heard the one about the Sunderland pub? Eleven Wearside hostelries with curious histories

Have you heard the one about the Sunderland pub inside a cinema? Or the pub which had its own ‘lion’?

By Chris Cordner

Published 3rd Sep 2020, 07:00 BST

We have 11 more curious tales of Wearside hostelries including the Sunderland pub with its own coat of arms, all told by Ron Lawson.

You may remember Ron’s previous contributions on local pubs with an interesting history, including the pub which was moved brick by brick to America.

Now we have more tales to share. Each photo and story comes to us courtesy of Ron, the former JP who is also part of the Sunderland Antiquarian Society and who has shared a part of his huge photo selection.

Take a look at Ron’s great reminders of times gone by.

9. The pub named after a shipbuilder

This view of the William Pile - which was named after a ship builder - was taken in 1935. The pub was a favourite of Dame Dorothy Street from 1871 to 1959. Photo: Ron Lawson

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10. The Earl who lost his arms

This pub in North Milburn Street was known as The Cottage in later years but it used to be known as the Earl Percy Arms. Remember it? Photo: Ron Lawson