Bell, Haverhill

Former Commercial hotel & posting house. An inn of this name dates back to the 17th Century. In 1664 an inventory*** shows Henry Cole inn-keeper brewing there, with over 600 gallons of beer on the premises. This was then valued at £25; based on rise in average earnings, this is equivalent to £38,000 today. The "Telegraph" coach to London (via Saffron Walden) left from the Bell every Monday, Wednesday & Friday. A report in the Ipswich Journal** on 26 Oct in 1869 states that : "The licensed Victuallers Tea Association advertised the sale of tea via its Suffolk Agents. This was a response to the irregular sale of Wine by Grocers & included a reference to J. GILBY of the Bell Hotel, Haverhill". Details of pub premises belonging to William Ward & Son sold, along with the brewery, by auction 23 January 1894*** - taken from the original source of documentation at Suffolk Record Office: "Haverhill: The Bell Hotel High Street On the Upper Floor: 12 Bedrooms & an Attic, Large Dining Room, Sitting room & conveniences. On the Ground Floor: Billiard Room, Commercial Room, Commercial Room, Bar, Kitchen, Long Dining Room, Luggage Room, Club Room capable of seating 100 persons, 2 Cellars & a Pantry. In the Rear: a large Yard with folding gate & range of buildings comprising stabling for 20 horses with Lofts & Granary over; also two sheds & other outbuildings, & large Kitchen Gardens. Let to Mr. John Gilbey, who has occupied the property over 30 years".