About Nesscliffe

The Old Three Pigeons has been serving the local community since 1407 and even though famous folk have dined here, our most notorious patron is Sir Humphrey Kynaston; Shropshire's answer to Robin Hood. From 1491 to 1518 Humphrey lived the life of a highwayman. He had a reputation of robbing the rich and giving to the poor, and in return the locals protected him giving him and his horse food.

Legend claims that one time the local sherriff removed several planks from a bridge on a path to the cave, in an attempt to capture him, but his horse managed to leap and safely clear the distance.

After evading capture for many years he was pardoned by Henry VIII in 1493, as he provided 100 men to aid the King against the French. Humphrey left a will on May 1st 1534, and died on January 16th 1535. While the year of his death is well known, the way he died and where are disputed. Some sources claim that he lived comfortably in an estate near Welshpool until he died, and others claim that he died of an illness in his cave.

It has been known by staff and customers alike, that he sometimes revisits us, along with his horse Beelzebub. The staff are well used to his antics but he has spooked a few customers.

Nowadays Nesscliffe is better known for its picturesque sandstone cliffs, situated in Nesscliffe Country Park, opposite the pub, and frequented by walkers, horse riders and cyclists.