Robinsons Family Brewers - Brewing Excellence

It was a historic day for the Company this summer when, to the cheers of dozens of local schoolchildren, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived at the Alvanley Arms, Cotebrook.

The visit is believed to be the first by members of the Royal Family to a Robinson’s house and came about after the couple, who were touring the area, specially asked to see both the 400-year-old pub and the Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre next door.

The working stud farm, home to many of the world’s champion shire horses, was of particular interest to the Prince who is currently President of the Shire Horse Society.

Fittingly, among those there to welcome the guests was Mr Peter, Deputy President of the society, and a great supporter of the centre which opened four years ago.

In addition to the horses, the 50-acre site is also inhabited by a fascinating array of wildlife including red deer, otters, polecats and birds of prey.

The visit was blessed with some rare summer sunshine as the Prince and the Duchess watched a farrier at work and saw a horse have its hair plaited, while the Prince also planted two oak trees as part of an environmental project.

The day was an unforgettable experience for Janet and Alistair King, who run both the pub and the shire horse centre.

"We feel very proud and privileged to have had a visit from such a special couple - particularly as they have a great interest in both country pubs and shire horses," said Janet.

"They were extremely enthusiastic about everything we do here and very animated about all aspects of country life." Janet added that, before leaving, the Prince also found time to enjoy a swift half of Unicorn at the pub!