02/08/00 Chris Ketchell of the LHU further reports that the
Royal William has finally demised. It was demolished on the
24th July. Waterhouse Lane was once a famous (infamous?) feature of
Hull, it has become a virtual wasteland. The Hogs Breath further up
the lane has never taken off, but a recent change of ownership may
prompt a revival in this area.
Sad news indeed from Chris Ketchell. The Royal William closed its
doors for the very last time on 7 October 1999. It's going to be demolished for redevelopment. Into
what, we're not sure, but there are rumours of a big tin shed and a car park. Another triumph for
the development policies of a City Council that does some things exceptionally well (Marina, New
Courts) but a whole lot more with a cavalier disregard for the city's heritage that wouldn't have
been out of place in the 50s and 60s. So it goes.
For the record, our old review ran...
Now rather overshadowed by the service and car park entrances of
its new neighbour, Princes Quay, this Free House is a really friendly little pub with a pool table
at one end: and an excellent selection of beers.
The wooden beams and stone window surrounds are clues to a long
history: but if your tastes are more modern, there is no reason why you can't sit and enjoy your
pint and gaze in wonder at the stacks of fresh pine furniture in the warehouse across the road...
And if watching wood cure isn't quite your idea of fun, more traditional entertainment is
available; including an excellent duo that plays on a Saturday evening.
