Inns & Taverns

To Harveys Public Houses (Pubs) can be divided into two main categories Harvey Houses which are properties owned by the company (also possibly referred to as tenancies or tied houses); or Free Houses (which may also include bars and clubs or the pub estates of other pub owning organisations).

The pub today and its future is a much debated topic. Should pubs adapt and modernise or remain staunch refuges from the hectic pace of the 21st century? The answer is not straightforward. Inns and taverns have been an English icon for over a thousand years: as their history and name evolution will testify. (For more on the origination of pub signs and names please consult our Timeline.)

The Pub has constantly adapted to new trends and customer demands; for example, in the 18th century providing livery for horses was fundamental to many country pubs. Today those very same houses haven't seen a horse in over a century and may now be offering haut cuisine or live music. The relevance of a public house only becomes challenged if it ignores the current needs of its surrounding community.

Following the recent changes in the Licensing laws and the introduction of the smoking ban, pubs generally look likely to become more family and female friendly, offer more food and higher quality refreshments. However, there will always be diverse exceptions to these trends and some new innovative specialisations. Good publicans know the primary role of any public house is to enable people to meet, socialise and enjoy themselves.