stone

The pub in Bardsey village near Leeds is believed to be Britain’s oldest pub, with 1,000-year-old stones, reported ghost sightings, and a fascinating history dating back to 905 AD

Nestled on the outskirts of Leeds is a charming village that harbours a wealth of history, often overlooked by those who stop for a pint in what’s claimed to be Britain’s oldest pub.

Bardsey is home to the legendary The Bingley Arms, reputedly Britain’s most ancient inn and pub, with the building’s stone tracing back an impressive 1000 years. Boasting a history that supposedly began as early as 905 AD, the Church Lane pub has a rich and intriguing past, including a former name unfamiliar to its current patrons.

Originally known as The Priests Inn, it reportedly served as a sanctuary for Catholic priests, monks, and others threatened by Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. However, these claims have been met with scepticism by some historians who dispute the medieval origins and trace the history back to the 18th century instead.

Inside, the pub retains much of its historical charm, exuding an authentic pub atmosphere with original oak beams and stone. It also features an inglenook fireplace and a 17th-century Dutch oven in its original location. Today, the site provides ample parking for visitors and boasts a diverse menu offering classic English pub dishes with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients. Outside, a spacious beer garden beckons for leisurely summer drinks, and within it stands a yew tree, believed to be older than the pub itself.

Praising what they described as a “five-star welcome”, one diner said: “The atmosphere was delightful, the staff were very warm and welcoming. Also, very, very good food. 10/10 would highly recommend to anyone in the area or passing through. Absolutely bloody lovely.”

Another customer said it was “always worth the visit”, explaining: “We visit The Bingley Arms every couple of months and are never disappointed. From the moment we walk through the door, we’re always welcomed by the lovely Kath, and it truly makes such a difference. Being treated like a friend rather than just another customer is exactly why we keep returning here instead of going elsewhere.”

Contributing to the glowing testimonials, one reviewer wrote: “Oldest Inn in England? They’ve been around long enough to know exactly what they’re doing. Outstanding food and drink! ! !” They described it as their “favourite British pub”. The establishment is believed to have a reputation for paranormal activity and ghostly encounters, which attracts visitors hoping to experience something supernatural. One person: “Warm welcome. Gorgeous food and always so welcome!”.

“In addition, what an amazingly beautiful setting. Oldest pub in England. A couple of secret priest holes and allegedly a few ghosts!”. Those interested in experiencing the historic venue firsthand can make reservations through the pub’s website, where they can secure a table within its ancient thousand year old walls.

It was previously named ‘Britain’s Friendliest Town to Drive Through’.

A charming little village in the Yorkshire Dales transports you back in time, making it an ideal spot for a weekend escape.

Tucked away in a relatively tranquil corner, this picturesque village nestles beautifully within one of the most breathtaking parts of Wharfedale in North Yorkshire. Just two miles from Burnsall and five miles north of Bolton Abbey, this village is a must-see for those yearning for a serene getaway amidst nature. Appletreewick, affectionately known as ‘Aptrick’ by the locals, boasts distinctive architecture with its stunning stone houses – many harking back to the 12th, 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. A number of these homes are perched on the hillside above the River Wharfe, overlooking the village’s only through road.

These residences offer spectacular long-distance views of the dramatic rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, set against the perfect backdrop of the fells. Though small in size, this picture-perfect village brims with character. It was mentioned in the renowned Domesday Book and was once a significant market town, thriving in the first half of the 14th century, reports Yorkshire Live. Remarkably, not much has changed in this exquisite hamlet, with a mere 207 residents according to the latest census in 2021.

A stroll through history

A leisurely stroll down the main street of Appletreewick feels like stepping back in time, with historic stone cottages lining the streets. A traditional red British telephone box, a sight increasingly rare these days, also stands proudly. The village has a rich history of diverse occupations, with early records revealing a mix of farmers, cobblers, tailors, schoolteachers, weavers, blacksmiths, miners, innkeepers, carters, and corn millers among its residents. Summer sees this charming hamlet bustling with activity as hikers, rambling enthusiasts, and cyclists are drawn to the area’s captivating views and stunning landscapes.

Appletreewick was once renowned for its annual Onion Fair, a nod to the significant role onions played in the village’s trade. In fact, there’s a lane in the village named Onion Lane, a lasting tribute to its historical significance. One particular Onion Fair saw a brawl erupt between two rival families – the Nortons of Rylstone Manor and the Cliffords of Skipton Castle. While the fight itself made headlines at the time, it underscores the importance of the Onion Fair in the social calendar, given that members of such prominent families were present.

Appletreewick also boasts High Hall, a Grade II Listed Tudor-style building, restored by none other than Sir William Craven, who later became Sheriff and Lord Mayor of London in the early 17th century. Craven had a personal connection to the building, having been born in a cottage nearly opposite High Hall, which was one of two eventually transformed into St John Baptist Church.

Visitors can enjoy a meal and a pint at The New Inn and partake in activities such as fly fishing on the River Wharfe, renowned for its plentiful grayling and brown trout. A 2009 study on rural driving in England named Appletreewick as ‘Britain’s Friendliest Town to Drive Through’ – perhaps all you need to know about this charming village and its inhabitants.

HAPPY Mondays singer Shaun Ryder missed Stone Roses bassist Gary “Mani” Mounfield’s funeral with pneumonia.

Shaun, 63, said he and Black Grape bandmate Paul Leveridge caught the lung condition as they were finishing a tour on December 20.

He told BBC Breakfast: “I got back the day before Mani’s funeral and collapsed, and so I couldn’t even go.

“In the end I got antibiotics . . .  that sorted me out. I’ve only been out of bed, what, four days?”

Shaun was on the breakfast show with Happy Mondays dancer Mark “Bez” Berry, who made Mani’s funeral at Manchester Cathedral on December 22.

Mani, who had emphysema, died at 63.

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Oasis star Liam Gallagher helped carry legendary bassist Gary’s coffin at his funeral – as a host of stars said their final goodbyes.

Sir David Beckham and Ian Brown also paid their respects to Stone Roses’ Mani, who died just two years after losing his wife, Imelda, to cancer.

The dad-of-two was last seen in public alongside Liam at the funeral of legendary boxer Ricky Hatton in October.

Just weeks later, the rocker’s family announced the sad news of his death on social media – sparking floods of tributes from across the globe.

Hundreds of locals in his hometown of Manchester were spotted lining the streets as Mani’s procession passed.

GEMMA Collins has shown off her impressive three stone weight loss in a bikini after turning to fat jabs.

The 44-year-old took to Instagram to proudly share a picture of herself looking slimmed down in a turquoise and black two-piece bikini set.

The reality star showed off the results of her huge weight loss as she stood on a beach with a pair of black sunglasses on.

She looked happier than ever and comfortable in her skin as her tanned body glistened in the sun.

Gemma took the opportunity to wish her followers an early happy new year as she captioned the post with an insightful message.

She penned: “As we step into 2026, do so with grace, confidence and unwavering self- belief. Your intuition is sacred guidance – trust it, honour it and allow it to lead the way.

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“Never dilute the essence of who you are to meet the expectations of others. The foundations of your soul were divinely designed and do not need to be changed.

“True luxury is authenticity. True power is alignment. When you remain rooted in your truth, abundance flows naturally. Stay real, stay grounded and stay radiant. Your presence alone is powerful.”

The former TOWIE star continued: “May 2026 bring elevated success, abundant wealth, deep inner peace and soul-level happiness to everyone.

“May your path be blessed, your heart protected and your dreams manifested with ease.

“You are becoming. You are rising. You are exactly where you are meant to be. HAPPY NEW YEAR,” she signed off.

Her followers flocked to the comments section and many couldn’t help but compliment her on her figure.

One person gushed: “Well said Gemma, you look fabulous. Love to you all xxx.”

Another fan penned: “Looking fab, love your swimwear,” while somebody else enthused: “Wow! You look amazing x.”

A fourth added: “That’s so lovely, so beautiful. May you have the most amazing 2026. You look stunning by the way, radiant.”

The weight loss comes after she began getting help from the NHS-approved Mounjaro back in November last year.

 Having struggled with weight gain since being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome aged 28, Gemma weighed in at over 23st and a size 26 at her heaviest.

She proudly told OK! Magazine: “I’ve actually just lost another stone and four pounds, I feel really good.

“I love myself as I am – you’ve got to be kind to yourself, it’s just about constantly remembering to make those right choices and be mindful.”

The I’m A Celeb star added: “I don’t put pressure on myself.

“It didn’t take you five minutes to gain it and it’s not going to take you five minutes to lose it.”

The reality TV star, who is a poster girl for shapely women, now only eats one meal a day after a two-decade battle with her body.

However she refuses to lose her famous curves, previously telling The Sun: “Nothing against skinny people, but I don’t ever want to be thin.”

She added: “Darling, I became most famous being who I am.

“If I got stick thin overnight, it would kill my brand, my endorsements and it wouldn’t be me.”

The 50-year-old has opened up about her impressive transformation

Alison Hammond has worked hard to lose weight after being given some scary health news. The TV presenter made two huge lifestyle swaps, which led to remarkable results both inside and outside her body, helping her discover ‘new love’.

Aside from losing an impressive 11 stone, the beloved TV host known for her work on programmes like ITV’s This Morning and Channel 4’s The Great British Bake Off also managed to ‘reverse’ her prediabetic condition through dedication and determination.

The 50-year-old first earned public fame during a brief appearance on Big Brother back in 2002. Alison stepped into the famous house at just 22 years old, and her brief fifteen days on the reality show led to a successful TV career that has spanned decades.

In recent years, the presenter has slimmed down and achieved an incredible 11 stone loss with the help of a personal trainer. However, alongside her fitness regime, she cut out two key items from her diet after receiving a prediabetic diagnosis.

Speaking to Women’s Health, she said: “My mum had Type 2 diabetes and she was worried for me, so when I then found out that I was pre-diabetic, that was frightening. I thought ‘I have to be an adult about this’. The sweets had to stop, and the fatty foods.”

Alison, who weighed 28 stone at her heaviest, maintains her fitness by working with her personal trainer twice weekly and keeps weights in her bedroom for additional workouts. She said: “I try to vary it so it’s not the same every day.

“If I miss a session or two with my trainer, I notice it. That kick you get out of the way you feel is so good.” Following a complete lifestyle transformation, according to a previous report by Surrey Live, the TV star revealed she’s no longer prediabetic.

She said: “Because my body’s working properly, I can allow myself a bit of sugar here and there. I love my new shape and although I still have areas I’m conscious of, such as my arms and tummy, it’s great being able to wear things I would never have been able to before. I mean, look at me, I’m a bombshell.”

What is prediabetes?

Diabetes UK reports that people may be classed as being pre-diabetic if their blood sugars are “higher than usual, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes”. It added that, for those who catch this condition before it gets over the limit, people can reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes, and it may be possible to prevent or delay the condition from developing.

Prediabetes doesn’t have any symptoms. If you start to have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, it means you have probably already developed it. Diabetes UK shared a list of signs people may want to look out for, including:

• going to the toilet more often, especially at night
• feeling more tired than usual
• losing weight without trying
• genital itching or thrush
• cuts and wounds taking longer to heal
• blurred vision
• feeling extremely thirsty

Diabetes UK claimed that there are an estimated 6.3 million people at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the UK based on blood sugar levels. Specialists believe that 1.3 million people are currently living with type 2 diabetes but are yet to be diagnosed