Three Horseshoes, Whitwick (Polly's)

This completely unspoilt local in a former coal-mining village was a beerhouse in the mid-19th century. Formerly in the hands of the Burton/Callaghan family since 1909 and was nicknamed 'Polly's', after the former landlady's grandmother. The present tenant took over in June 2022 and has carried out a very sympathetic refurbishment.  The 1882 date on the frontage probably may indicate alterations that turned it into the present structure. In the tiny inner lobby, which is more like a vestibule with part-glazed partition walls, the off-sales hatch with its diminutive sash windows is still in use today (although only occasionally). The public bar is through the latch door to the left which has a '1' on the inside - a requirement of licensing magistrates in the past to number pub rooms. The public bar has been this size since the building was converted to pub use as the red quarry-tiled floor and the extensive bench seating straddle 'the join' of two rooms in the former cottages. Original fittings include the low bar counter, bar-back shelves and wood surround fireplaces at the front left and rear right with rows of glazed bricks. Note the baffle at the end of the seating near the exit door to outside toilets. The only change seems to be the boxing-in of the seating in the later 20th century towards the rear. The only modern item is the piano which is played for the occasional sing-song. To the right of the lobby is the tiny snug with a bare wooden floor, another Victorian fireplace with rows of tiles down each side and basic bench seating. Service is from a hatch to the back of the bar servery. There are three tables with Formica tops well worn from the regular playing of dominoes on them. This room is now used mainly for special occasions but a polite request at the bar will allow a viewing. Outside gents' and ladies' toilets.