Standing proudly in the heart of Burrough on the Hill, The Stag & Hounds is far more than a traditional village pub. It is a place shaped by centuries of local life, remarkable brewing heritage — and even a little royal intrigue.
Historical records describe an inn called The Stag & Hounds at the south-western end of the village by the early 19th century, although the pub’s origins are believed to stretch back even further. Over the years, its doors have welcomed generations of villagers, farmers, travellers and visitors to Leicestershire’s historic hunting country.
A Royal Romance Begins
Burrough on the Hill holds a fascinating place in British royal history.
During the early 1930s, Edward, Prince of Wales — who later became King Edward VIII — was a regular visitor to nearby Burrough Court. The country house belonged to Lord and Lady Furness and was well known for its hunting parties and fashionable gatherings.
It was at Burrough Court, around 1930–31, that the Prince first met the American socialite Wallis Simpson. Their relationship would eventually change the course of the British monarchy.
Edward became King in January 1936 following the death of his father, King George V. However, his wish to marry Wallis, who was divorced and seeking the end of her second marriage, created a constitutional crisis. In December 1936, Edward gave up the throne, famously choosing love over the Crown. His younger brother then became King George VI.
The King Who Was Barred?
Alongside the documented royal history, a wonderful local story has been passed down through generations.
Village legend says that Edward visited The Stag & Hounds during his time at Burrough Court — and was subsequently barred from the pub. Exactly what happened has been lost to time. Some versions suggest an unpaid bill, while others hint at behaviour that did not impress the landlord.
No written record confirming the incident has yet been discovered, so we cannot say with certainty whether a future king really was shown the door. Nevertheless, it remains one of the pub’s most entertaining tales.
After all, every proper village pub deserves a good story — and few can claim that a King may once have been barred from theirs!
From The Stag & Hounds to Grant’s — and Back Again
For a period, the pub traded as Grant’s Free House, a name still fondly remembered by many local people. In 2019, it returned to its historic name, The Stag & Hounds, reconnecting the pub with its roots while beginning a new chapter.
The building also shares a special connection with neighbouring Parish Brewery, whose award-winning cask ales have been part of the local story for more than four decades. Its record-breaking Baz’s Super Brew, at an extraordinary 23% ABV, was once recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest beer in the world.
Continuing the Story
Today, The Stag & Hounds remains what a true village pub should be: welcoming, characterful and at the heart of its community.
We are proud to protect its name, celebrate its connection with Parish Brewery and keep its stories alive for future generations. History has unfolded all around these walls, but the pub’s story is far from finished.
We warmly invite you to become part of its next chapter.
And, unlike the future King Edward VIII, you need not worry — we accept both cash and cards, so there should be no danger of being barred for forgetting to settle your bill!
