The Rose & Crown

The Rose & Crown is built on part of the garden of Garrison House in Wivenhoe, overlooking the River Colne. The exact date of construction is unknown, but the building predates 1760.

Solomon Lappage serves as licensee — the earliest recorded landlord of the Rose & Crown.

The pub becomes the official registration place for boats entering the River Colne fishing smack races, a role it holds until 1793.

The Rose & Crown hosts the bankruptcy sale of Wivenhoe boat builder Philip Sainty — his shipyard, workshops, boathouse, and three Bath Street properties. Many landlords of this era were seafaring men themselves: sail makers, ship's masters, and yacht stewards.

James and Jane Gardner take over as landlords, beginning what would become the longest-serving tenure in the pub's history — a remarkable 38 years until 1899.

The pub is sold to the Colchester Brewing Company, and five years later to Ind Coope, who supply beer from their Romford brewery.

The Rose & Crown is granted Grade II listed building status on 1 June, recognising its heritage and architectural value as one of Wivenhoe's oldest buildings.

Reopened under new management in 2026, the Rose & Crown continues as a beloved riverside local with tables overlooking the Colne towards Rowhedge — still pouring pints after more than 250 years.