An inn has stood next to the church of St Elian for several centuries. Local records mention church elders visiting the alehouse next door in AD 722. The present-day pub, a Grade II listed building, may date from the same year as the church (1527).

The current building still retains its original Welsh slate floor and oakbeamed ceiling. A church pew, probably 19th-century, is utilised as one of the seats for customers.

The inn sign is adorned with the coat of arms of the Holland family, who owned much of the land in the area and the inn itself until well into the 20th century. There's a stone tomb from 1612 dedicated to squire Humphrey Holland in the churchyard.

For the last 18 years the pub has been owned by the Cole family. The water in the nearby St Elian's well was credited with special healing powers until the late 17th century, but it gradually acquired a more sinister reputation.

If people wanted bad luck to befall someone, they would pay some money and the person's name was then noted down and a pin stuck through it. Then their initials were inscribed on a stone, which was hurled into the "cursing well".

This well was a nice little business for the guardian in charge because he or she also received a fee if the accursed one wanted the stone removed and the curse lifted. However the well was demolished and filled in by the local vicar in 1829.

The church of St Elian boasts beautiful medieval wooden panels, depicting the Last Judgement and the story of St Hubert. And don't miss the old salt cellar by the inglenook fireplace in the pub.

Sue Wilkes is a member of the Society of Authors.