The Burdon Tap, once a quaint establishment nestled in Victoria Street, Weymouth, has become a compelling part of local folklore. This small pub, which stood opposite the Burdon Hotel (now the Prince Regent), had a unique legacy of serving chauffeurs, grooms, and workmen connected to Tilleys Motor Show rooms. Despite its long and narrow dimensions—not much more than a living room in size—the Burdon Tap was a favourite local haunt, known for its intimate atmosphere. It was famously described as capable of accommodating only three drinkers at the bar, packed shoulder to shoulder, while a urinal adjacent to the pub served as its toilet.
The Burdon Tap, affiliated with the John Groves Brewery, is remembered not just for its size but for its history. Heather Byfleet, a long-time Weymouth resident, shared that her grandparents ran the pub from 1928 to 1941. Her grandmother, Eva Hawkins, managed the establishment independently after the passing of her husband, contributing to the fabric of the community. Mrs Byfleet recalls, “The Burdon Tap was like the Tardis from Doctor Who! It was bigger inside than just the public bar,” highlighting the pub’s hidden charm with additional spaces that included a private bar and living quarters. Unfortunately, the beloved pub was demolished alongside Tilly’s Garage, paving the way for a new development known as The Nightingales.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in Britain's smallest pubs. While the Burdon Tap is often remembered, it has found itself in competition with others across the country, particularly the Smiths Arms in Godmanstone and the Nutshell pub in Bury St Edmunds. The Nutshell proudly stakes its claim as one of the smallest pubs in Britain, measuring a mere 15 feet by 7 feet, and boasting a rich history that dates back to 1867. This Suffolk establishment is adorned with unique curiosities, including a mummified cat believed to ward off evil spirits, and continues to draw visitors seeking a distinctive and intimate drinking experience.
The vibrant stories surrounding these small pubs contribute to their allure. One visitor's account of the Burdon Tap echoes a sense of nostalgia, recalling its cramped interior, where a single bench greeted patrons, and the barmaid stayed seated while serving. Another reminiscence reveals that the pub offered little in the way of sustenance, presenting just a solitary sandwich and meat pie, leaving much to be desired in terms of dining.
Despite their historical significance, both the Burdon Tap and the Nutshell face challenges that threaten their narratives. The Nutshell has recently had to close temporarily for asbestos removal, underscoring the difficulties faced by historic pubs in maintaining safety standards while preserving their legacies. As they navigate these modern issues, the enduring appeal of these intimate venues continues to resonate with patrons seeking not just a drink, but a slice of cultural history.
In a landscape where larger establishments often overshadow smaller ones, the stories of the Burdon Tap and its counterparts remind us of the charm and community spirit embodied in these pint-sized venues. They stand as testaments to a way of life that celebrates camaraderie and local heritage, even as they compete for recognition in a country rich with micro-pubs and historical pubs alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services