The Swan Hotel in Staines was built in the 16th century. — Photos: JO RITCHIE/The New York Times
To my right, two 70-something regulars at the Exhibition pub in York, England, peppered me with questions on American politics, taught me how to recognise a fresh pint of beer (it should leave a path of foam on the glass) and invited me next door for a curry at their favourite Indian restaurant.
To my left, a middle-aged couple visiting from Manchester recommended the pub’s burger and identified the gaggle of college-age men in vintage golf attire – replete with tams and argyle prints – as playing “pub golf”, a drinking contest that involves hitting 18 pubs.
