The Black Boy, Oving
Introduction
The photograph on this page of The Black Boy, Oving by Stephen McKay as part of the Geograph project.
The Geograph project started in 2005 with the aim of publishing, organising and preserving representative images for every square kilometre of Great Britain, Ireland and the Isle of Man.
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Image: © Stephen McKay Taken: Unknown
Oving's village pub was built in the 16th century although there are 20th century extensions. It is noted for its beer garden and views over the Buckinghamshire countryside. The Black Boy name is of obscure origin and there are a number of 'Black Boy' pubs around the country; one possibility is that it refers to colliers, although that would seem unlikely here. Perhaps a more likely possibility is a reference to Charles II who is said to have had a dark complexion during his years of exile. There is a connection with that period of English history; Oliver Cromwell and his New Model Army are believed to have camped by the pub after sacking nearby Bolebec Castle.