Local residents and schoolchildren lined the roads in the village as Her Royal Highness Princess Anne visited one of the country’s last remaining family-owned Victorian tower breweries.
Her Royal Highness was joined by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Mrs Marjorie Glasgow BEM, for the special visit.
The Princess Royal was introduced to the chairman, Jonathan Paveley and managing director of Hook Norton Brewery Mr James Clarke.
Her Royal Highness also greeted several local primary schoolchildren, whilst the Hook Norton Brass Band provided the soundtrack.
Speaking after the visit, James Clarke said: “It was an absolute honour to welcome Her Royal Highness to the brewery.
“The occasion was to celebrate the brewery’s 175th Anniversary, delayed by the stables fire in 2024.
“As well as a celebration of the brewery, it was also very much a celebration of community and the brewery’s longstanding relationship.”
The visit was of particular significance as Her Royal Highness last visited Hook Norton Brewery in 1999, when she unveiled a plaque that is now in the visitors centre.
During Thursday’s visit, HRH passed that same plaque before touring the brewery's museum, retail facilities, restaurant, engine room, as well as the restored stables.
Several local dignitaries also attended the event, including Banbury MP Sean Woodcock, Oxfordshire County Council Chair, Cllr Ted Fenton, Chair of Cherwell District Council, Cllr Nigel Simpson, and the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, Mr Jawaid Malik.
His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Mrs Glasgow, said: “Hook Norton Brewery is one of Oxfordshire's great treasures, and it was a real honour to welcome The Princess Royal back, nearly 27 years after her last visit, to see how it has continued to thrive.
“Her Royal Highness took a genuine interest in everyone she met, from the brewery's long-serving staff to the schoolchildren who came to welcome her, and that warmth was very much felt by all present.
“Days like this remind us of the important role our historic institutions play in the life of a community, and we are delighted that the Oxfordshire Lieutenancy was able to arrange such a memorable occasion.”
5. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visits Hook Norton Brewery
HRH The Princess Royal reopened the brewery's stable buildings that were damaged in a fire in 2024. Photo: www.daydreamequineart.co.uk
6. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visits Hook Norton Brewery
The visit marked the 175th anniversary of Hook Norton Brewery. Photo: www.daydreamequineart.co.uk