WOODHOUSE EAVES TRADES.
By
Brian Axon
Reading through some of the Local Trades Directories for the early part of the 1900's revealed some interesting 'trades' in our area.
At “The Anchor Hotel”, Woodhouse Eaves (now the “Curzon”), Proprietor William Hunt advised that visitors to this Old-established House would find comfortable accommodation at reasonable prices. Also a phaeton and dog cart were kept for hire. Charnwood Forest has many interesting antiquities and natural curiosities, and is further noted for its picturesque scenery and bracing air with beautiful walks and drives.
At “West View Apartments” at Woodhouse Eaves. James Mee begs to inform the Public that he has comfortable apartments to let, including Dining, Drawing, and five Bedrooms. The above is charmingly situated on the hills, commanding extensive views in this most beautiful part of the country. It is specially suitable for invalids.
The “Charnwood Boarding Establishment” was in Victoria Road offering good accommodation for cyclists, a healthy situation, perfect sanitation, hot and cold baths, with every home comfort at moderate tariffs per day. Ladies 2/6, gentlemen 3/-, children 1/3, with the best rooms at 3/6 per week extra. However, Sundays was for boarders only.
Visitors could travel to Woodhouse Eaves by Prestwell's Bus Service from Leicester, stopping at All Saints' Place, Great Central Street, Anstey, Cropston, Swithland, Quorn and Loughborough at Cross Keys. By telephoning Woodhouse Eaves 20 one could organise private hire of saloon buses. A trial is solicited.
The “Forest Rock Hotel”, proprietor W J Hipwell, was selling Worthington beer on draught and Bass in bottles, wines and spirits, and offered a free car park for those rich enough to own one.
However, Jack Kirby claims that "if you want better beer", call at the “Bulls Head”, where snacks are also provided!
The “Windmill Café” offered afternoon teas, with home-made cakes, confectionery, high class provisions, and cigarettes.
For those who required regular shops, there was plenty to choose from.
“Squire Bros”, proprietor J E Spencer, high class grocery and provisions merchants, satisfaction guaranteed, at 2 Main Street. No doubt competing with "Le Fevre's Stores", prop. I M Stubbs for Groceries, Provisions, Beers, Wines and Spirits.
"A Flewitt & Son" were Family Butchers at 46 Main Street, where Families were waited upon daily for orders of English meat.
"I K Hughes" provided high class groceries and sweets from Mill Road, with deliveries to all parts.
Article originally published October 2004
