Built in 1890, a number of bands used to rehearse in the function room at the back of the venue. This included The Combined Forces who used the room prior to their one and only gig on 9 May ’67, and Sammy Rat’s Big Big Blues Band.
An amusing tale involving the pub was told in the late 50’s / early 60’s, the narrative of which has one of managers at The Tunsgate Club, Guildford buying an old Foosball table from the Shalford Parrot for £10.00 and on opening it up, once installed at the club, finding £20.00 in tanners inside.
On 17 November ’89, The Flying Tigers, supported by Walking the Dog, played the pub. Sammy Rats did not just rehearse at the venue, on 19 February ’93 they performed there too. Other bands to grace the back room included Route 66.
As of 2023 it was a sorry sight, another lost venue and boozer. It had closed in September 2019 and was purchased by Red Mist Leisure in February 2021, who reportedly commenced an extensive refurbishment that went nowhere.
Gallery:
17 November 1989: The Flying Tigers, supported by Walking the Dog, played The Parrot, Shalford. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
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