Margate

According to Michael David Mirams in his book "Kent Inns and Inn Signs" the "Five Bells" changed name or was replaced by the "Six Bells" about 1787. The old house was the haunt of smugglers, who hid their illicit gains in the vaults of St John's Churchyard opposite, and of Naval press gangs.

Tony Buch says:- "I'm sure there is a mention of the "Five Bells" in The Chronicle of William of Byholte' (1310 to 1320), which was 'An account of the legal system known as Frankpledge'.

The chronicle mentions one John Elyot (he of the deaf ear) who owned the wine tavern near the church of St. John. Dom Dunstan Pragnell researched and published a booklet on the Chronicle of Wiliam of Byholte (published by the Monastry Press. Ramsgate), and he links the said tavern to the "Six Bells" pub.

I have also found reference to another "Five Bells" addressed as in Broadstairs.

LICENSEE LIST

ELYOT John 1310+