Crossways Inn, Churt

In 1871 Arthur Chuter was at the Crossways Public House and was described as “bricklayer and public house keeper”. The 1881 census return indicates that he was still the publican at the Crossways Inn when it was called “The Shant”. The 1891 census return indicates that John Nicholas Baker “publican and carpenter” was living at the Crossways Inn, though the premises was called “The Cross Roads Inn” in some trade directories. A photograph from the 1890’s shows it as a simple cottage-style building with a central porch and bay windows either side. The front of the pub proclaimed “Trimmer’s Fine Ales and London Stout”; George Trimmer had an interest in many premises in Farnham and Aldershot along with hop growing and brewing. In 1889 Trimmer’s became part of the Farnham United Breweries who, in 1895 purchased the Crossways Inn. It was rebuilt and improved and resulted in the pub looking much as it does today. The 1901 census return indicates that the publican was Silas Mullard, although the pub has reverted to its original name. The lane now known as Hale House Lane was called Shant Lane and the pub was still known as “The Shant” by many locals well into the 20th century. Silas’ son Montague Mullard later advertised carriage (Victoria and Brougham) hire and coal and coke sales from the premises. He also offered Luncheons and Teas. Current landlady Teresa Ewens and her late husband Paul took over in 1994.

N.B. Thanks are due to Churt Heritage for much of the above information: (https://churtheritage.co.uk/crossways-public-house)