Preston's Plau bar gains listed status

Plau on Friargate is one of 58 historic places in the North West to be have been added to the National Heritage List for England during 2020.

The former Plough Inn has been a public house since the 18th century.

It was originally associated with the notorious gin craze and later linked to the beginning of the temperance movement.

Thomas Swindlehurst, a leading national temperance crusader, decided to forswear all alcohol whilst drinking at the establishment in 1832.

The building has a number of notable architectural features, including a handmade brick vault containing a mash -pit and stand, probably the previous location of a still where the gin was made.

On the top floor, an unusual reed and plaster ceiling is preserved.

The careful restoration of the premises by the present owner achieved national recognition in April, winning “Best Conversion To Pub Use” by CAMRA and Historic England in the National Pub Design Awards.

The listing of the premises followed an application from owner Jeremy Rowlands.

He worked closely with Preston City Council’s conservation officer to ensure this remarkable building has now achieved national recognition.

Jeremy said: “I am delighted that Historic England has chosen to recognise the special history of Plau.

“It’s been an incredibly tough year and this news has given us a real boost as we look forward to welcoming back our customers in 2021.”

Visit historicengland.org.uk