Nestled in Lydford-on-Fosse, Somerset, The Cross Keys Inn has marked its twelfth anniversary with much celebration. This beloved pub, famously known for briefly declaring itself an independent republic in 2018, has grown into a cherished community hub. Since owner David Grindley purchased it in 2013, the pub has flourished, recently earning a spot among the top 10 pubs in Somerset according to local readers.
In a cheeky political statement, The Cross Keys wrote to then-Prime Minister Theresa May announcing its departure from the UK and even set up border patrols with souvenir passports for patrons. However, the self-declared Republic of the Cross Keys was short-lived; local MP David Warburton formally accepted their surrender during a Sunday lunch visit, restoring the pub to British sovereignty.
Despite the fleeting independence stunt, The Cross Keys remains a vibrant and generous cornerstone of the community. Over the past 12 years, it has raised an impressive £46,000 for various charitable causes. Recent fundraising efforts have included £5,000 for The National Brain Appeal, which supports cutting-edge neurology and neurosurgery research in London, and £8,100 for Cancer Research UK in 2024. They have also donated £11,500 to the Alzheimer’s Society.
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Beyond these, other beneficiaries of The Cross Keys’ charitable outreach include Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Mind in Somerset, Burnham Area Rescue Boat, Ilfracombe Lifeboat Station, and St Margaret’s Hospice in Taunton, among others.
The anniversary event welcomed a distinguished guest, Professor Ley Sander, a world-renowned neurologist and consultant at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. Professor Sander accepted a cheque on behalf of The National Brain Appeal, symbolizing the pub’s meaningful connection to the causes it supports.
Owner David Grindley expressed heartfelt thanks to the volunteers and sponsors who have been fundamental to the pub’s success in charity fundraising.
The Cross Keys Inn remains open every day, welcoming visitors from noon until 10 pm Sunday through Thursday, and staying open an hour later on Fridays and Saturdays. Its combination of community spirit, dedication to good causes, and historical quirkiness make it a true Somerset treasure.