This week’s edition of ’This week in West Berks’ comes from the wonderful village of Stanford Dingley, a particular favourite of mine!
The village was listed in the Domesday Survey of 1086 & today has many properties dating from the 17th & 18th centuries.
Whilst the village only has a population of less than 200 (& approximately 80 properties), it is a buzzy & vibrant place with a whole host of social events going on. This is especially true as the village is home to not 1, but 2 fantastic village pubs!
Firstly, The Bull Inn. A 15th century with 2 bars, a dinning room, a beer garden, a paddock & 5 B&B rooms. Lovingly refurbished in 2018, it is now run by Richard Sanderson who also runs The Bladebone at Chapel Row (to be featured in a future week’s blog!). In 1 of the bars, you can still partake in the ancient game of ‘Ring the Bull’ - where you must hook a horn using a ring suspended from the ceiling.
The Bull’s Sunday roasts are to die for & the good news is that they are now available for takeaway (whilst pubs remain closed due to COVID:19).
Right outside the pub is the bright red village phone box. As with most phone boxes these days, it no longer acts as a phone, but instead it’s a little local library for people to swap books & also houses the village defibrillator.
The other pub in the village is The Old Boot. Run by Rebecca & Andre, they’ve restored this lovely pub back to its former glory & it’s certainly a hit with regulars far & wide. With a lovely bar, conservatory & huge beer garden, they’ve got something for everyone (including delicious food!) & regularly host events. (When they reopen) you’ll need to be quick though if you want to attend, they’re super popular & nearly always sell out!
The Old Boot is also offering a range of takeaway options during lockdown.
The church in the village, St Deny’s is thought to contain Saxon work. Beneath the carpet in the north aisle, is a brass memorial to Margaret (died 1444) who was the wife of William Dingley (hence the name of the village). He was a bodyguard to King Henry VI.
Another key community asset of the village is its village hall. It dates back to the early 20th century & in 2017 it re-opened after a year long refurbishment. Whilst small in size (it can seat around 40 people), it is a vital part of the village & is regularly used to host art fairs, meetings & childrens’ parties.
The river runs right through the village & can been seen at various points as you stroll around (it even has its very own mill). So 2 pubs, the gentle trickle of water, beautiful countryside...... what’s not to love! (Told you it was a favourite of mine 🙂)
Comments