For two centuries, the St Dunstan has stood proudly at the centre of Langley village life. Generations have gathered here — to share stories, raise glasses and build the community we know and love today.
It all began on the 12 September 1825 when Hugh Roberts was granted the very first licence to open the St Dunstan. Back then, strict rules governed the conduct of inns — no drunkenness, no gambling, no foul play — because inns weren’t just places to drink; they were the lifeblood of a village. A meeting place. A refuge.
Sarah Barton, one of its early licensees, ran the St Dunstan in the late 1800s. Like many who followed, she lived on the premises, serving her neighbours, hosting travellers, and keeping the pub at the very heart of the community. Langley once boasted three inns:
Over the years, these establishments were more than just pubs. The Smithy was run by William Leather, a blacksmith and farrier who shoed horses at the forge attached to his inn. The New Brighton had its bowling alley and its own colourful characters. But as times changed, The New Brighton closed in 1908 and The Smithy rebranded — leaving the St Dunstan as Langley’s last surviving original inn.
Even as the world around it has changed, The St Dunstan has remained a hub of village life welcoming locals and patrons from neighbouring villages and beyond. Situated near Macclesfield Forest, the passing trade and its reputation as a proper pub has kept it as a vibrant meeting place. The pub is at the heart of the community where it hosts live music, quiz nights, village fete meetings, the famous SLOPS (Sutton and Langley Onion and Pumpkin Society), pool teams, the Langley 11 walks, WI meetings, parties and even wedding receptions to name just a few.
The St Dunstan is a legacy worth protecting and now, more than ever, its future depends on us. This isn’t just a building. This is Langley’s living history. This is where stories are told, friendships are made and generations connect.
Save The Dunstan