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Ipswich Spread Eagle
Ipswich Spread Eagle
Real Ale is sold here.
1-3 Fore St, IP4 1JW
grid reference TM 167 443
This distinctive Grade 2 listed building is the sole survivor of four pubs which once stood at this junction.
Recent refurbishment during summer 2015 restored the whole building to a high standard and the split level bar has been sympathetically furnished throughout. Now up to six real ales on hand-pump (all from Grain) plus a wide selection of craft and imported beers. A selection of imported bottled beers are also available. Some bar snacks and daytime food options are available.
Sadly the refurbishment included replacing the attractive red & yellow external paintwork with a dull grey.
The building dates from the 16th or 17th century.
Facilities
Beer garden or other outside drinking area
Beer served through handpumps
Bus stop nearby (see transport links for details)
Dogs welcome
Pub sells beer from local brewers
Quiet pub - no electronic games, piped music or jukebox
Real fire
Smoking area
WiFi available
Railway station about 0.9 miles away (see transport links for details)
Gallery
Nearest railway station
Historical interest
To be sold, the Spread Eagle Inn, near St Clement's Parish, in Ipswich, with a good Slaughter-House, good Conveniences for Brewing and all Brewing Utensils to be sold, ready fist. Enquire of Mr Robert Peacock, at the Spread Eagle.Ipswich Journal, February 14th 1747***
To let and enter upon immediately, that ancient and good accustomed public house known by name of the Spread Eagle, situate in the Steppings in St Clements in Ipswich. For particulars inquire Mr John Cobbold or Henry Gallant.Ipswich Journal, 1 May 1784
On Monday the 24th died, Mrs Margaret Cook, aged 76 years, relict of the late M G Cook, of the Spread Eagle Inn.Ipswich Journal, January 1820**
Thomas West a hawker of Lower Orwell Street was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises and refusing to quit…
Landlords
Footnote
The spread eagle was originally a Roman sign and later used by many countries including Austria, Germany, Russia, Spain & France. The sign is also used by many English noble families. Its popularity as an inn sign owes a lot to the fact that it was the device of Catherine of Aragon.
(Most pub, location & historic details collated by Nigel, Tony or Keith - original sources are credited)
(** historic newspaper information from Stuart Ansell)
(*** historic newspaper information from Bob Mitchell)
(*** Last Orders is a free local newsletter - published by Suffolk CAMRA members since 1978)
