This island has a handful residents, an electrician-turned-king and a 300-year-old pub

Piel Island is home to just a handful of families. (Representational)

Nestled off the Cumbrian coast, Piel Island unfolds its allure—a 50-acre haven where tranquility meets history. This unassuming isle, with its 14th Century Piel Castle ruins and a pub steeped in tradition, has become the unexpected stage for the coronation of a new monarch, Aaron Sanderson.

However, beyond the coronation ceremony lies a tapestry of captivating stories, a unique community, and a rich historical legacy.

Piel Island, half a mile off the Furness peninsula, draws those seeking solace and a retreat from the ordinary. A unique community thrives here, facing the challenges of isolation with dedication and passion. The island's residents, though few, embody a special personality—individuals who appreciate the simplicity, peace, and quietude that Piel Island offers.

The families residing on the island are said to have lived there for over 3,000 years.

The island's historical significance is evident in the remnants of Piel Castle, a medieval structure built to deter Scottish raiders in the early 1300s. Piel Island played a role in the Wars of the Roses, witnessing the landing of a pretender, Lambert Simnel, in 1487.

The heart of Piel Island beats within the walls of the Ship Inn, a 300-year-old pub that became the epicentre of the coronation ritual. This establishment, steeped in history and camaraderie, is more than just a pub— it's a focal point for gatherings, celebrations, and the occasional self-crowning ceremony.

A former submarine electrician, Aaron Sanderson, 33, was crowned as the island's monarch last year chosen from 30 applications. The coronation involved the anointing of beer, symbolizing the official transfer of power.