There once stood a very lopsided pub that eventually became an iconic watering hole in central England. The Crooked House was a quirky 18th-century British pub with leaning walls and a tilting foundation.
Last year, it was set ablaze in a mysterious fire, which turned into a criminal investigation. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the fire but were later released on bail without any charges being filed against them.
The fire happened only two weeks after the pub and hotel operator Marston's sold the property to a local firm.
Last August, shortly after the fire, the owners unlawfully bulldozed the building without any authorization.
Yes, even more sus ...
Locals in the village of Himley loved the Crooked House, and more than 36,000 people joined the "Save The Crooked House (Let's Get It Re-Built)" Facebook page.
Finally, in a fortunate turn of events, the local council ordered the owners of a charming pub to rebuild it to its original lopsided glory.
The South Staffordshire Council stated that they had "engaged with the owners" and instructed the pub to be rebuilt "back to what it was prior to the fire" by February 2027 or face prosecution for non-compliance. The notice was delivered to owners Adam and Carly Taylor and to the company secretary of ATE Farms, which acquired the inn.
They have been given a 30-day window to appeal the notice.
Roger Lees, the council leader, cheered on the campaigners and Facebook group members whose "aim is to see the Crooked House back to its former glory."
We have not taken this action lightly, but we believe that it is right to bring the owners, who demolished the building without consent, to account and we are committed to do what we can to get the Crooked House rebuilt.
Looks like someone was dead set on getting rid of this place!
They went all out with the fire and bulldozers, breaking every rule in the book, only to find out they gotta put it back together exactly as it was - wonky, lopsided, and all!
Talk about a hilarious backfire!
The Crooked House was originally a farmhouse built in 1765. It was sinking on one side due to coal mining in England's Black Country. Around 1830, it transformed into a pub named The Siden House, reflecting its crooked appearance in the local dialect.
In the 1940s, it faced demolition but was rescued by Marston's, ensuring its safety and renaming it The Crooked House. With one side standing significantly lower than the other, the peculiar structure attracted many tourists.
And maybe in three years, once the pub is restored, you can make the trip to enjoy a pint alongside the pub's regulars!
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