Southwold King's Head
listed building grade II
last updated May 28th, 2020.
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Southwold King's Head
North East, 52.3283,1.67587
closed August 2013
opened 1743 (rebuilt 1864)
23 High St, IP18 6AD
grid reference TM 505 763
The pub is shown (though not named) on this old OS map from about the end of the 19th century. interactive map
This large open plan lounge diner had a small public bar in one area.
It was first licensed in 1743.
The pub closed mid-August 2013 after several months under temporary management. The future is currently under review but it's been reported that it may become a police station, though other reports suggest an Italian restaurant. As of mid-August 2015, the building has been de-signed but is still empty (no change in July 2017).
Owner/operator: Adnams
Large open plan lounge/diner, with small public bar to one side. Noted for its homemade food. B&B attached to the pub. Well kept beer.
Beers: Adnams Bitter, Old, Broadside, Seasonal AleCAMRA's 1997 Suffolk Real Ale Guide
Gallery
Blyth 0.16 mile
Crown 0.17 mile
Swan 0.21 mile
Sole Bay Inn 0.23 mile
Red Lion 0.27 mile
Lord Nelson 0.29 mileHistorical interest
The pub is also listed at Baronby/Barnaby Green (1839/1840) and in South Street.
It was first licensed in 1743. On 13th October, 1764, the Ipswich Journal announced "An Ancient Inn" called the King's Head at Southwold was to be let. It had recently been rebuilt, with a sashed front, had stabling for 20 horses, besides a common stable for market horses, a large garden and an acre of land. It was offered for £15. Kelly's Directory for 1896 reads "John Marshall, King's Head Inn & Forester's Hall & Dining Rooms; good accommodation for Beanfeast parties…
Landlords
(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 book information from Bob Mitchell)
(**** Reference to pub seen in Southwold Diary of James Maggs (1818-1876) published by Suffolk Records Society in 2007)
Old OS map reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland.
