Prince William makes secret stop off at legendary Dartmoor pub
Legendary Dartmoor pub The Warren House Inn now has another claim to fame following a secret visit made by Prince William on his way back from an official engagement in Cornwall. The Prince of Wales enjoyed at quick stop off at the pub on Thursday, October 17, home to a fire which has been burning for nearly 180 years.
The free house inn is the highest pub in southern England at 1,425 feet above sea level and is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, as is much of the surrounding area. Prince William, sporting a new bearded look, happily posed for a photograph in front of the infamous fire which is said to have never gone out since the pub opened in 1845.
The pub has been run by Peter and Janet Parsons for more than 30 years. Peter also worked behind the bar in the '70s before returning on the promise he would one day take over the helm.
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He and his wife also live at the inn, which is open seven days a week, and he says that one of the best things about its location - other than the views - is not serving the same locals day in day out. Welcoming royalty is a highlight he can now add to his many memories of running the pub.
Prior to his visit, The Duke of Cornwall visited Duchy College in Callington which provides degrees in equine science, agriculture, and horticulture, as well as courses in the armed forces and emergency services, business, health, and construction.
The prince met with staff and students and even participated in a mock crime scene investigation. He also visited a student-run café on campus and heard from students who are part of the Future Farm programme.
The land on which the college stands was initially leased by the Duchy of Cornwall to Cornwall County Council in 1984, with the intention of establishing a new agricultural college. The Duchy has been a consistent supporter of the college over the years.