AN ancient cobblestone courtyard in the heart of Clifton Village is getting a facelift, believed to be the frst for many years.
The cobblestone path leads to one of Clifton’s oldest pubs, The Albion, at the end of a cul-de-sac off Boyce’s Avenue.
Ruth Bucknell, who runs the pub, said: “I’ve already got rid of unwanted boxes and other stuff which was in the courtyard. Now visitors to The Albion are welcomed by flowers I’ve put into planter boxes and they’ve brightened up the area.
“The Albion was built in the last quarter of the eighteenth century but I think the cobblestones are much older. I’m trying to find out when they were frst laid as I want to make the best of Clifton’s historic features”.
The Albion is believed to have been named after a 200 tonne ship built in one of many shipyards in Bristol. Originally there were stables on both sides of the cobblestone approach.
Starting on 1 September The Albion will be offering on the first Monday of every month a Community Lunch of fish and chips and a pudding for £15.
“In Clifton there are many people over 60 who have lunch on their own at home. This is an opportunity to socialise with other people and have lunch at a reasonable price,” said Ruth.