Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, Frederick Augustus II, and The Cross Keys, Milnthorpe black plaque

This black commemorative plaque records: The Cross Keys Milnthorpe. Dating from the sixteenth century, the inn was rebuilt following a fire in 1821. As 'the largest hostelry' between Kendal and Lancaster it served 20 Stage Coaches a day and also the 'carriage trade' of the nobility and gentry. Royal visitors included the King of Saxony, the Csarevitch of Russia and, on 24th July 1840, Queen Adelaide, widow of William IV. Though the coaching trade was ruined by the coming of the railway in 1846, the Cross Keys remained a centre of social life, having a ballroom to accommodate 70 dancers. Recorded plaque organisation: Parish of Milnthorpe.

Queen Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen was the wife of King William IV and is remembered for her charitable work and support of educational reforms; The Cross Keys in Milnthorpe holds historical significance as it hosted notable figures including Queen Adelaide and served as a major coaching inn during the 19th century.