# Tree-ring dating helps settle debate over England’s oldest pub

A debate over which pub is England’s oldest is being addressed with tree-ring dating, which can precisely date historic timber. The findings matter for heritage claims and local tourism, but the story is mainly informative rather than widely significant.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2026/oct/23/oldest-pubs-inns-historic-england-archaeologist) — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:17:00 GMT