Nantwich, a medieval market town in Cheshire located just one hour from Liverpool, offers visitors a blend of independent shops, scenic walks, and timber-framed architecture. Yet beneath its charming surface lies a hidden royal connection that many locals are unaware of.
The Great Fire of 1583
On December 10, 1583, a brewer residing on Waterlode accidentally started a fire that raged for 20 days, destroying 150 houses, inns, and other properties. The blaze claimed two lives and left approximately 900 people—half the town's population—homeless. The disaster disrupted salt transportation, Nantwich's primary export, and halted its role as a military staging post.
Queen Elizabeth I's Historic Aid
Queen Elizabeth I and her Privy Council, concerned for the town's commercial welfare, commissioned a nationwide fundraising effort. The Queen personally contributed £1,000 (a substantial sum at the time) to the rebuilding cause. This generosity is commemorated on a plaque at a building in Nantwich Square, now known as "Queen's Aid House."
Modern Attractions and the Wickstead Arms
Today, Nantwich boasts many attractions, including St Mary's Church, one of Britain's finest medieval parish churches, and a town square with a memorial tribute and specialist shops. Among its highlights is The Wickstead Arms, a pub in the heart of town that holds a 4.7 rating on TripAdvisor with hundreds of glowing reviews.
One visitor wrote: "We went to the Wickstead today and enjoyed our whole experience. Staff were friendly and professional and the pub was clean and welcoming with a warm atmosphere too. The food was superb. I had the goat curry and it was delicious. My son had the cottage pie and husband had fish and chips. We all had empty plates and totally enjoyed our visit. Prices were competitive too. We will definitely be going again and recommend the Wickstead for meals and drinks."
A second reviewer remarked: "Such a lovely Sunday - had a gorgeous walk along the Nantwich canal followed by the perfect Sunday roast beef with all the tasty trimmings at the Wickstead Arms. A warm welcome from all the staff and they didn't blink twice at accompanying our large group plus 2 dogs. THE place to eat if you're in Nantwich!"
