Drinking Local, (Madonna) Prince Charles and 'Pub is the Hub'

I did not realize until today that English Pubs where part of the national treasures championed by Prince Charles.

Reading London Pubs, with Thanks to Madonna and Prince Charles (on Globespotters) made me aware of that.
While the piece reports that Madonna and Guy Ritchie bought centuries old London pub The Punch Bowl described as the second oldest in Mayfair, Prince Charles is the spirit behind Pub is the Hub.

The reason for his involvement (I quote) is that according to Prince Charles: “Rural communities, and this country's rural way of life, are facing unprecedented challenges ... the country pub, which has been at the heart of village life for centuries, is disappearing in many areas. By providing new services from the pub, such as a post office or a shop, not only keeps an essential service in the village or brings a new one in.”

In other countries some cafes or bars might be the meeting point.

If you live in a small town or village, can you share what place fills that spot for you?

Thanks in advance!

Related: Izakaya...The Japanese Neighborhood Bistro?...And a Cookbook