Butley Oyster
last updated Nov 29th, 2023.
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Butley Oyster
North East, 52.1064,1.4572
Closed:
Found closed and obviously empty when visited in May 2026.
opened 1617 or earlier
Woodbridge Rd, IP12 3NZ
grid reference TM 368 509
The Oyster is shown on this old OS map from about 1902 (interactive map)
Traditional family-run rural pub with lots of character, from wooden beams, low ceilings and large fire places. Surrounded by well maintained walks and in beautiful surroundings. Parking is on the left at the back of the pub in a field. Pub holds regular calendar of events.
According to A Survey of Suffolk Parish History, the Oyster was first recorded in 1732, though part of the interior dates back to the 16th century. The new owners in 2016 have found documents showing that a license payment was made to James I back in 1617!
Butley Brewhouse started brewing at the pub at the beginning of 2018, though this is thought to have ceased operation.
There's even an on-site cinema!
Gallery
Tavern 2.5 miles
Green Man 2.6 miles
Elephant & Castle 3.2 miles
King's Head 3.4 miles
Jolly Sailor 3.6 miles
Ship 3.7 milesHistorical interest
Owner/operator: Adnams
Excellent country pub, packed with character from its traditional furnishings to the local anecdotes which adorn the walls. The fine range of home cooked food and well kept beer make it a GBG regular. The pub stages a summer folk festival, plus regular Sun night sessions in the bar. Aviaries and hutches in the garden teem with birds and pet rabbits. Camping available adjacent to the pub. No food Sun. Eve.
Beer: Adnams Mild, Bitter, Old, Broadside.CAMRA's 1997 Suffolk Real Ale Guide
A report in the Bury & Norwich Post** on Dec-26 in 1838 states that the pub was part of the sale of Samuel Alexander's Brewery, the Oyster selling at £820.…
Landlords
Footnote
Oyster beds in Butley Creek, where oysters were cultivated for centuries, once enjoyed a fine reputation until the trade died out in the late 19th century. Since 1950s the beds have been gradually restored by Richard Pinney, so that today the Butley Orford Oysterage is again an established local industry offering not just oysters but also cod, bass, sole, skate, lobster, crabs and various smoked foods.
(Most pub, location & historic details collated by Nigel, Tony or Keith - original sources are credited)
(some old PO directory information courtesy of londonpublichouse.com)
(** historic newspaper information from Stuart Ansell)
(*** historic newspaper information from Bob Mitchell)
Old OS map reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland.
