The History of The Jackdaw

The History of The Jackdaw

The Jackdaw has stood at the heart of Denton for centuries, with its history stretching back to 1645, when the property is recorded as a farmhouse forming part of the estate of Thomas Leythorpe of Elham. For generations it was home to tenant farmers before its transformation into a village inn.

In 1756, Andrew Snell was granted a licence to sell ales and cider from the premises, and by 1758 it was known as The Red Lion. From then on, the inn became an important part of village life, hosting meetings, auctions and other community business.

The pub also has a wonderful literary connection. Local writer Richard Harris Barham, who lived at nearby Tappington Manor and wrote the Ingoldsby Legends, was a patron of the Red Lion. His famous tale The Jackdaw of Rheims eventually inspired the pub's present name.

In 1962, following extensive refurbishment, the Red Lion became The Jackdaw Inn. The building was also formally recognised that year as a Grade II listed building.

The Jackdaw has another remarkable claim to fame. In 1968, it became a filming location for the 1969 film The Battle of Britain, starring Michael Caine and Christopher Plummer. Denton and the pub featured in scenes depicting the personal side of wartime life.

Today, The Jackdaw remains a working village pub and restaurant, surrounded by reminders of its past, including our collection of RAF memorabilia.

From farmhouse, to The Red Lion, to The Jackdaw, this building has been part of Denton's story for almost four centuries. And its story is still being written.