The Turk's Head

Exeter. Nestled next to the historic Guildhall, a tavern has stood on this site since at least 1289, when city authorities first granted the property owner the right to lean a structural beam against the Guildhall wall. This was known as "beam rent", and the owners paid one penny per year. During the reign of Charles II this was doubled to two pennies. This custom is still recognized today.

The name"The Turk's Head" is believed to have first appeared in 1569 when the property was sold for 80 pounds. There are several theories about the name. The Prisoner Theory says that the inn's cellars were occasionally used to hold prisoners, and that a Turkish captive was executed there. The Jousting Theory refers to a jousting ground that was located at the rear of the building, supposedly featuring a jousting target shaped like a "Saracen's Head". Maritime and Crusades Links refer to 16th and 17th century Turkish pirates who raided the nearby Cornish coast. "Turk's Head" is a traditional maritime term for a type of decorative rope knot that resembles a turban.

The pub's most famous patron was author Charles Dickens, who frequented the inn during his visits to Devon (where his parents lived). He had a preferred booth, which became known as Dickens's Corner. While there he observed a rather eccentric, stout young man who worked at the pub. This individual served as the inspiration for "The Fat Boy" (Joe) in his debut novel The Pickwick Papers.

In 1874 a devastating fire tore through the rear of the building, destroying much of the ancient interior. The subsequent Victorian and early 20th century renovations expanded the pub's footprint, merging it with neighboring Guildhall Vaults in 1899.

There is also now a microbrewery on site. Being the former homebrewer I am, I was nosing around checking out their system when I meet Tilly, the brewer. She invited me inside for a closer look, and we had a lengthy chat about brewing. She also gave me some great suggestions of other pubs in the area to check. She even poured me off a sample of her Octoberfest beer from the bright tank. It was so delicious, and really nailed the style. And to top it off, she gave me a really cool t-shirt. I should also mention Michael, who is not only one of the bartenders but also does marketing for the pub. He too provided me with a wealth of information. Thanks so much to he and Tilly!

The pub has a long spacious room in front of the bar. There are also two rooms across from the bar - the afore mentioned Dickens Corner, and The Snug - and another room in the back. There is also a rooftop terrace, so lots of places to sit and enjoy a beverage. I tried several of Tilly's tasty creations, settling on a Golden Axe Golden Ale - wonderfully crisp and delicious.

This was such a great pub visit for me, one I will always remember. I highly recommend it when you visit Exeter (and stay down by the Quay - it's so beautiful down there!).