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Historic Accommodation In Gloucester: The New Inn

The New Inn was built around 1430 by St Peter's Abbey for pilgrims who came to Gloucester Cathedral. The New Inn replaced that earlier building, hence its ironic name. The inn remained in the Abbey's possession until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539. It then became a private inn, and was known as the largest in the country.

In the summer of 1553 the New Inn saw history played out on its galleries. Edward the Sixth had died, and to try and keep the English throne in Protestant hands seventeen year old Lady Jane Grey was persuaded to become queen. Jane was staying at the New Inn when the proclamation was made. The announcement of her succession was made from the New Inn gallery. Sadly Jane's reign only lasted seventeen days, before she was deposed by Mary Tudor and her supporters. Read more in the Later Tudors.

Later in the sixteenth century the New Inn's galleries held the audience for plays performed in the courtyard. Shakespeare could well have performed here in his days touring with the Lord Chamberlain's Men.

The New Inn continues as an inn, a restaurant, and as a venue for civil weddings.

 

The New Inn is in Northgate Street, Gloucester. Click here for New Inn Gloucester information, guest reviews, room availabilty and bookings.