What Have the Romans Ever Done for Us?
David Wadkin MBE
- Region:
- Yorkshire & Humber
- Notice Period:
- Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £95-£120 depending upon distance. Mileage negotiable.
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 18th June 2026
The story of the British pub begins with the Romans, who introduced their tabernae — lively wine‑shops that became the earliest drinking houses on our shores. After they departed, these evolved into Anglo‑Saxon alehouses, simple rooms in family homes where beer was brewed and shared with travellers.
By the Medieval period, inns and taverns lined the roads of England, offering food, ale and shelter. But the pub as we know it today truly took shape in the 19th century, complete with bars, beer pumps and a growing sense of community identity.
One of the most distinctive features to emerge was the pub sign. First formalised under Richard II, these signs soon became powerful symbols — showing loyalty to the monarchy, celebrating national heroes, and reflecting the shifting social and political moods of the nation. From royal emblems to local legends, each sign told a story about the people who gathered beneath it.
This talk takes you on a brisk, engaging journey through 2,000 years of drinking, identity and social change — all seen through the evolution of the Great British Pub.
Cheers!
Views: 1672 | Enquiries: 6About David Wadkin MBE
I joined Rotherham Probus in November 2018 and, true to form, immediately set off on a long‑planned six‑week safari adventure across South Africa, travelling the Garden Route before heading through Botswana and into Zimbabwe. Before leaving, I had offered to help on the committee — and somewhere between Cape Town and the Okavango Delta I received a message congratulating me on becoming the new Vice Chair of Probus. An unexpected promotion while on safari, but one I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.
The talks delivered at Probus have always been varied, fascinating and full of insight. My own speaking journey began when members asked me to share highlights from that very safari trip. The combination of wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes and personal stories proved so popular that it quickly became one of my most requested talks.
The following year I was invited to speak again, and soon afterwards other Probus groups began asking me to visit them as well. Word travels fast, and I now speak regularly across the region, continually adding new subjects to my growing list of presentations.
As a keen photographer with a love of the outdoors, travel and adventure, my talks are supported by high‑quality images and well‑researched facts. I’ve been fortunate to receive excellent feedback on both the photography and the storytelling. I prefer the human touch — meeting groups face to face and sharing experiences directly.
My work has also attracted wider interest, and I have been invited to record several episodes for the BBC’s Secret South Yorkshire (often referred to as “BBC Hidden South Yorkshire”), a popular BBC Radio Sheffield feature exploring the forgotten history, folklore and untold stories of our region.
Where will I travel next…? With a motorhome and a wife willing to navigate, the possibilities are endless — and I only ever ask for minimal travel costs.
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