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Ipswich Bear & Crown (Bear)
Ipswich Bear & Crown (Bear)
Closed about 1885
19? Westgate St
grid reference TM 161 446
It seems likely that the Bear & Crown occupied what's now two shop units immediately east of the building we have pictured as the Suffolk Hotel.
In 1888 it was recorded that "[it] some years ago became absorbed in the Suffolk Hotel". The 1830 drawing of the Suffolk (before they were joined) occupying the whole of the three-story building, with a gap to the west of it, so making it unlikely that the Bear & Crown was that side. In addition, we're told that there are pub cellars under the shops, so if they weren't occupied by the Bear & Crown they're certainly in an old pub.
A fire is recorded at the premises in 1828 requiring extensive rebuilding, so the name may have changed after this?…
Gallery
Historical interest
Note: another Bear & Crown used to stand in London Road. It's possible some of these references may be confused between the two.
(Most pub, location & historic details collated by Nigel, Tony or Keith - original sources are credited)
(*** historic newspaper information from Bob Mitchell)
