A penny a night?

Just out of the blue we received the following letter at The Mermaid Inn which made me smile, so of course I had to say yes.

Dear Madam,

Today I had the pleasure of a beer in your lounge. Whilst there I read that in the 1300s one could obtain a lodging for the night at the rate of one penny.

I have at home a silver penny from the reign of Edward 1st (1272-1307).

I wonder if I presented myself at reception with this penny I could still obtain the same rate for the night?

Yours faithfully and tongue in cheek,

David Hilder

So last week David Hilder duly presented himself at reception and the Mermaid is now the proud owner of one silver penny to be treasured.

Image Credits: Judith Blincow .