Emergency meeting called as fire guts iconic wonkiest pub in UK
Shock as Crooked House reduced to rubble
The famous “wonkiest pub” in Britain, The Crooked House near Dudley, has been completely destroyed by a suspicious fire. Known for its bizarre tilt caused by 19th-century mining subsidence, the beloved 18th-century pub was ravaged by flames last Saturday. Authorities are treating the blaze as a deliberate act of arson. By Monday, only rubble remained where the quirky landmark once stood, sparking outrage among locals and former patrons.
Mayor fumes over suspected arson
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, furious about the blaze, said on social media: “It makes your blood boil”. The Crooked House was more than just a pub; it held deep cultural meaning and was even featured on a BBC show in the 1970s due to its unique interior illusions. Street is now working with South Staffordshire Council to decide the future of the site.
Controversy over demolition and ownership
Just last month, Marston’s Brewery sold The Crooked House to ATE Farms from Warwickshire, run by Carly Taylor. Investigations revealed that Adam Taylor, Carly’s husband, has links to a landfill next to the site. Meanwhile, South Staffordshire Council confirmed only part of the building was approved for demolition over safety concerns, and they are probing whether the full teardown was lawful.
Ongoing police probe and calls for justice
Staffordshire Police continue their investigation, deploying a trained dog to scour the rubble for accelerants. Historic England disclosed they received a request to grant the pub listed status just before the fire – which would have offered better legal protection.
Local politicians and night-time economy advisers have voiced deep sadness over the loss. Alex Claridge, West Midlands night-time economy adviser, said the pub’s destruction struck a chord worldwide, with tributes flooding in from across the globe.
Attempts to fight the blaze were hampered by a mound of earth blocking emergency access on the night. Former landlords and local MPs demand a thorough inquiry, while residents express frustration over the lack of clear communication surrounding the demolition.
Historic landmark lost amid calls for stronger protections
The fire at The Crooked House has sparked urgent debate about safeguarding historic sites against vandalism and arson. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a true local icon that held a special place in British heritage.
