The Throne, 1 Hereford Road, Weobley

Image: © Jo and Steve Turner Taken: 25 May 1997

Grade II* Listed as a 16th century farmhouse extended early 17th century with 18th century alterations. Formerly the Unicorn Inn and possibly The Throne Inn. Architect Andrew Thomas claims that the oldest part of the house is from 1478 but an inscription that was found in the fireplace says that the house was built in 1599. Although some of the stonework appears to be of medieval date it has been reused probably from the castle. King Charles I is supposed to have stayed here on 5th September 1645 when it was the Unicorn Inn. The name of the inn was reputedly changed to ‘The Throne’ in honour of his visit but the 1902 OS map still showed it as ‘The Unicorn’ although in a Gothic font suggesting it may be an historical reference. In High Street is Unicorn House previously the Unicorn Hotel and adjacent to it is the ‘New Unicorn Inn’, consequently confusion reigns in reports. The new Unicorn declares it was established in 1887 and on this basis, from directories, I find occupants here to be, 1835 Jane Lloyd, 1842-1868 Mrs Mary Ann Lloyd and 1885 William Watkins (& beer agent, assistant overseer, assessor & collector of taxes), all listed at the Unicorn. It seems likely therefore that it changed to ‘The Throne’ about 1887 when the New Unicorn was established and it became a private residence.

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