My husband and I stayed in Rugby in 2008 when we went to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone Circuit. While there, we learned how the sport of rugby was "invented" by a student at the Rugby School named William Webb Ellis, who one day just picked up the ball in his arms during a football (soccer) game - which was supposedly against the rules then - and started running with it. Like most legends, there's a lot of doubt as to whether it's actually true or not. But it makes for a good story. So in honor of William Webb Ellis, we had dinner and beer at the pub in town named after him.
I really enjoyed the food and atmosphere here. There were, of course, tons of rugby-themed memorabilia and big-screen TVs showing live or recorded rugby matches as well as other sporting events. Although the menu seems to have changed since we were there, at the time they had a three-course meal deal that was excellent - a fruit and cheese plate, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, and dessert. There was also a wide range of ales and inexpensive wines. The staff was attentive and very friendly.
We watched the Wimbledon Men's Finals while we were there and also listened in on a game of Trivia (they call it Quiz Night there). They asked us if we wanted to join in, but we opted out because we didn't think we would be familiar enough with the questions. We were right - they asked stuff like, "Which color line on the London Underground goes to Kings Cross?" (It's the Blue Line, by the way, but since we hadn't been to London yet, there was no way we would have known that.) But it was very entertaining just listening in.
All in all, we had a great time here. If you're into rugby - or even if you're not but just want good food and drink and a fun atmosphere - make sure you stop by the William Webb Ellis when you're in Rugby. read more