Geograph - photograph every grid square

The building on Church Lane which housed the Exeter Arms was constructed in the late 18th. century and originally served as a sessions house, where trials were held. The Exeter Arms closed in around 2012 although, when this photograph was taken, the pub's interior still appeared to be intact. The pub building was acquired by the John Clare Trust, which is dedicated to the memory of the Northamptonshire "peasant poet" John Clare (1793-1864), who was born in Helpston and lived there until 1832. After his death, Clare's body was taken to the Exeter Arms prior to burial at the church. The Trust also owns the John Clare Cottage on Woodgate, which is open to the public. Following the closure of The Exeter Arms, The Bluebell Inn on Woodgate is now the village's sole remaining pub.