Approximate Location
OS Grid Reference: SJ 88685 69495
Latitude / Longitude: 53.222380N , -2.1709339W
Whilst Colin, Susan, Gowther, Fenodyree and Durathror seemed reasonably convinced that they had managed to evade observation whilst crossing in front of Thornycroft Hall, they were somewhat mistaken (Weirdstone, Chapter 19 – Gaberlunzie). Instead “garrulous old Jim Trafford“, an estate worker, spotted them whilst making his rounds of the hall to ensure that the coal scuttles were full. He later reported the curious sight of the fugitives to his friends in the Harrington Arms at Gawsworth. One of the company – Fred – took to his heels to bring word back to the morthbrood.
The village of Gawsworth had already raised Gowther’s disapproval when he discussed which way the travellers should head from the Fanshawe Brook: “If we take our road round by the south, we’ll have to pass through Gawsworth, unless we go quite a step out of our way; and if you’ll be guided by me, we’ll steer clear of Gawsworth, matters being what they are. Some mighty queer things happen theer at the best of times, without this.” I would especially love to learn what local stories led Alan Garner to put these words into Farmer Mossock’s mouth!
The Harrington Arms is a late seventeenth or early eighteenth century brick building, with nineteenth century additions, that is listed as “a rare example of an unspoilt C19 rural public house.” It lies to the south of the village, but is close to an interesting complex of historic buildings including Gawsworth Old Hall, the Old Rectory and the parish church of St James – which all lie a short distance to the north-east.