Britain's Wonkiest Pub Site Lies in Ruin

The site of Britain’s “wonkiest” pub has been left to decay and is now a “dumping ground” two years after it was destroyed in a suspected arson attack.

The Crooked House, in Himley, West Midlands, was gutted by fire in August 2023 and bulldozed just two days later. In 2024, South Staffordshire Council ordered its owners to rebuild the pub after ruling its demolition unlawful. However, campaigners say the historic site has since fallen into “absolute ruin,” becoming a hotspot for fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour. Fridges, mattresses, bin bags, children’s toys, tyres, and drug paraphernalia apparently litter the lane leading to the site.

Local residents have condemned what they call a “scandalous lack of action” since the fire. Former regular Martin Eley, 49, said: “To see the site now is heartbreaking. It’s in a state of ruin and nothing has been done. It was once home to one of the UK’s most unique pubs – now it’s just a decaying dumping ground.”

Paul Baker, 61, added: “I’ve lived here all my life and came to the pub with my parents. This should have stood forever – it was a national treasure.”

The Facebook group Save the Crooked House now has more than 37,500 members, and the pub’s plight – along with those of other heritage pubs – has been raised several times in Parliament.

Paul Turner, from the campaign group, said their goal remains to have the pub rebuilt “brick by brick,” but expressed concern over the safety of the area in front of the site.

The future is uncertain after the company linked to the pub collapsed with £1.2 million in debts. In May, campaigners urged the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to decide whether those under investigation for the fire will face charges. A CPS spokesperson said no case file had yet been received from police.

This article is for general information and interest purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice, nor does it necessarily represent the views of HCB.