History of The Hind's Head, Aldermaston

The Hind’s Head dates back to the 17th century, and its walls hold plenty of secrets and stories. Originally built as a coaching inn, the pub has had a few names in its long history, including The Pack Horse and The Congreve Arms.

Its current name was inspired by the coat of arms of the Forster family, which featured a hind’s head. The Forster family inherited nearby Aldermaston Court in the 1500s, and lived in the town for over 200 years. The family’s most famous descendent is E.M. Forster, and in honour of the author, some of the guest rooms in the hotel are named after his novels, with framed copies hanging outside.

At the back of the building you’ll find a small, grade-II listed jailhouse, made of red brick with a domed roof. This building was last used in 1865 to house a customer who had drunk too much. Unhappily, he lit a fire to keep warm and burned to death – after which it was never used again.

We’ve also kept the town’s history of aviation alive at The Hind’s Head. In 1941-42, RAF Aldermaston was built here as a Bomber Command airfield, and was in use until 1950. Fans of RAF memorabilia will find plenty to enjoy in our dining areas.

Head outside, and you’ll also see a black and gold clock on the building’s gable, a fox-shaped weather vane and a bell-turret, which was intended to be used as an air-raid siren during World War II.