Previously it was used as a Quaker school.

Mrs Rachael Maw left the building in trust (in her will) for use as a temperance hotel and restaurant.

The first annual meeting of the Needham Market Working Men's Club was held in the Club Room of the Coffee Tavern, in January 1885. The Secretary, Mr F Chapman, reported the Club was in a prosperous condition, both numerically and financially, there being 40 members, with a balance in hand of 9s.Ipswich Journal, September 1885**

Fred Chapman & his sister Elizabeth ran the restaurant and served coffee in early days.

In 1911 Percy Smith took over the Temperance Hotel.

From 1916 Annie Leveritt ran a Coffee house here.

From 1924 until 1937 the hotel was run by Harry & Nellie Baker.