A Board Inn

This is one of many public houses in Appleby, but is obviously closed at the moment. It's a long time since we have seen anyone around it, but the sign is still in evidence. It is a listed building from the late 18th century. 

I was wondering about the name A Board Inn. This could, as the sign suggests, indicate that board games were available there, but I did wonder whether it meant something else. 

Our visitors arrived, several hours after they should have done - an awful journey with roads closed, diversions etc. But they are here safely, we've had a nice meal and we are all ready for bed.