From the book's foreword;
“THE WARMEST WELCOME . . . by PETER STANLEY WILLIAMS
Throughout the centuries, the English Inn has held its place high in the affections of all who appreciate the good things of this world, be they whimsical, creative, companionable or just hearty livers of life. To each, the traditional English hostelry has something to offer; some subtle sense of tolerant well-being that can be experienced in no other place on earth.
In this atmosphere of warmth and companionship, people become people once more, relaxation actually becomes a reality, troubles fly, even if only temporarily, and a fragment of one’s existence has been enriched.
Thus, the English Inn has a vital role to play over and above the practical realities of fine food, drink and accommodation. Basically, we need a haven to which we may repair for a while to revivify body and spirit, but, more than that, an inn is a testing ground for many advanced adventures in living; a place where one becomes aware of the intricate subtleties of the palate and the diverse qualities of wines from all over the world.
In this book will be found a selection of hostelries of character where a high standard of cuisine, comfort and cheerful service obtains and where historic and or picturesque surroundings form a receptive setting. The healthy demand for reliable and readable information of this nature is reflected in the fact that our inaugural edition sold out with breathtaking rapidity. “In this second issue, therefore, I hope to be able to introduce even larger numbers of established and would-be gourmets to more of the good things of life.
It will be noted that a large number of hostelries to which I refer are in holiday areas; this arrangement has been made deliberately.
As the title of this book implies, these are essentially ‘wayside inns’, and it is whilst on vacation that the most incredible opportunity to make new acquaintances occurs. Also, I have not dwelt at any great length on the hostelries of London as their names are legion, rivalled only by the miscellany of publications covering this aspect of life in the metropolis.
Much painstaking research has gone into the compilation of this book; however, although facts and figures have been assembled, responsibility for errors or omissions on matters arising therefrom."
Very (very!) out of date now, but a fascinating snapshot of a different time!
Available here on the Internet Archive.
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