It was originally built in 1832 as a 5 storey folly, when it actually became a pub is not clear. It is said that a gambler named Hodgson built it to annoy the vicar of Stannington after the 2 had a row. It can certainly be seen from Stannington Vicarage.
For years it was known simply as Hodgson's Folly, and stands perched atop a sheer drop.
The views from this Whitbread/Castle Eden pub are quite stunning.