New and old in perfect harmony
The John O’Gaunt Inn dates back to the 13th century
This charming Grade II listed inn epitomises the traditional values of a great pub, with interesting locally brewed ales – some even brewed in the pub’s own microbrewery, ciders, gins and delicious home cooked food, all served with a welcome smile and friendly chat.
A sensitive and tasteful refurbishment in 2014 brought the pub bang up to date, while bringing out the best in the building’s history and character.
With several different areas to tempt you, open fires, comfortable seating and a varied menu of seasonally inspired dishes, it’s the perfect place to meet friends, enjoy a meal, or just mingle with the locals at the bar over a goodly ale or two. There’s even a menu of gins and bottled beers.
An ancient pub
Early 13th century
We’re not sure exactly how old The John O’Gaunt Inn is, but it’s likely that there has been a building on this site since the reign of Henry III.
1617
A property on this spot was acquired by the Town and Manor Feeoffment (Trustees), following the grant of the Manor in 1612 by James I.
18th century
At some point, most likely during the 18th century, the building and that of the house to the right when looking at the pub, were rebuilt – both are clearly by the same designer and craftsmen. The building was later part of the Priory of St John.
1764
The building becomes the first workhouse in Hungerford.
1782
The increasing number of paupers means a larger workhouse is needed, and the residents move to High House (now Charnham Close).
1783
It’s likely that shortly after this time, the property became an inn.
1812
Listed in the Trustee Minute Books as the ‘John of Gaunt’.
1826
The name appears as the ‘John O’Gaunt’.
1864
The name has been changed to the ‘Duke of Lancaster Arms’.
1900
The name is back to the ‘John O’Gaunt’.
The Inn
The John O’Gaunt appears to have had several names over the years
In 1812 it’s listed in the Trustee Minute Books as the ‘John of Gaunt’, and in 1826 as the ‘John O’Gaunt’. In 1841 it then appears as the ‘Lancaster Arms’ and briefly in 1864 as the ‘Duke of Lancaster Arms’, returning to the ‘John O’Gaunt’ in 1900.
We don’t know why the name was changed, but interestingly, all of the names refer to the same person, John of Gaunt, the 1st Duke of Lancaster and fourth son of the Plantagenet King Edward III.
From his marriage to Blanche of Lancaster John of Gaunt became the richest man in England
Being the owner of massive inherited estates including that of Hungerford. He also exercised great influence over the throne during the minority of his nephew, later King Richard II, with his own son becoming the future King Henry IV.
John of Gaunt’s father, King Edward III, is believed to have granted a charter giving the grazing, fishing and hunting rights to the householders of the main street of Hungerford, and his own coat of arms contains the three lions of England and fleur de lys of France, visible on the Inn’s sign today.
Today
The John O’Gaunt Inn
The John O’Gaunt Inn or the ‘’JOG’ as it’s affectionately known locally, is under the ownership of the Town and Manor, and is let to The INNformal Pub Company, owned and run by Mark Genders FBII. Visit their website to find out more.
