GREEN DRAGON INN - A HISTORY

Hardraw is old English for Shepherds dwelling, and the land once formed part of land owned by the Cistercian Monks, who settled here before moving to Jervaulx Abbey in lower Wensleydale. They kept a Grange at Hardraw and possibly a small chantry chapel.

In times of old the early Northern (Yorkist) Kings would rally their troops at certain known locations: ‘Meet at the banner of the Green Dragon near the waterfall’ for example. It is possible that this is where the pub's name comes from and indeed the present Inn sign depicts a green dragon and a small white rose.

The public bar area perhaps dates to the fourteenth century.

Over recent years we have had a series of occurences of paranormal activity, giving credence to local folklore.

During major alteration work in the 1970s a priest hiding hole was reputedly found.  The priest hole above the former bar/kitchen area was said to have led via an underground passage to Hardraw's graveyard. Sadly it was destroyed and the passage filled in.

A late Georgian addition forms the well-trodden hallway and entrance to the famous Falls and reception area as at takeover (2001). Situated to the right of the Inn is Bertha's Cottage which dates from the end of the 19th century and was restored in the spring of 2008. It is now available to let as a 3 bedroom holiday Some of the flags of parlour floor are gravestones washed away from the neighboring churchyard during the floods of 1889.

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At the turn of the century the Green Dragon Inn and Hardraw Force were owned by Lord Wharncliffe.

In 1913 the Simonstone Estate (previously belonging to Lord Wharncliffe) was advertised for sale.‘The Simonstone Estate comprising 12,662 acres. High and Low Abbotside to be sold by auction Wed 22^nd Oct 1913 – Northallerton.’ (Excerpt from the sale catalogue)

    It is interesting to note that this was not due to any financial hardship, but merely to pay for     a son's 21st birthday party. We wonder whether he then survived the Great War.

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