Our Story
Over 250 years of riverside hospitality in Wivenhoe
Welcome to the River Colne, Colchester.
A Pub Built on the Quay
The Rose & Crown was built on part of the garden of Garrison House, overlooking the River Colne in Wivenhoe. While the exact date of construction is lost to history, the building predates 1760, making it one of the oldest pubs in the village. Granted Grade II listed status in 1973, the pub has stood on this quayside for over two and a half centuries — through the age of sail, the heyday of the Colne fishing smack races, and into the present day. Its wooden floors, riverside setting, and welcoming atmosphere have drawn locals and visitors alike for generations.
A Pub Shaped by the Sea
From the early 1700s to the late 1800s, the Rose & Crown was at the heart of Wivenhoe's seafaring life. The pub hosted auction sales of boats built and moored at Colchester Port and Wivenhoe, and from 1782 to 1793 served as the official registration place for boats entering the River Colne fishing smack races. Many of its landlords were maritime workers by day — sail makers, qualified ship's masters, yacht stewards, and ship's platers — with their wives often running the pub while the men were at sea. The longest-serving landlords were James and Jane Gardner, who kept the Rose & Crown from 1861 to 1899, a remarkable 38-year tenure.
The Team Behind the Bar
Reopened in 2026 under new management, the Rose & Crown is run by a dedicated team who believe a great pub is about more than just food and drink. It's about the warmth of the welcome, the quality of the conversation, and the feeling that you've found your local — even if you're visiting for the first time. We're proud to be part of Wivenhoe's story, and we're always happy to share ours over a pint.
Right on the River Colne
Our quayside terrace looks straight out across the River Colne towards Rowhedge — one of the best pub views in Essex. In the warmer months, there's nothing better than a cold pint in the sun as the boats drift past. When the weather turns, there's a warm fire inside, wooden floors underfoot, and a quiet beer garden tucked away at the rear. We're dog-friendly, family-friendly, and always happy to see you — whether you're a regular or just passing through.
View Our MenusFind Us
We're located at The Quay, Wivenhoe, Colchester, Essex CO7 9BX — right on the waterfront, with the River Colne on our doorstep and views across to Rowhedge.
Getting Here
By train: Wivenhoe Station is just 370 metres away, on the Colchester to Clacton line. A flat, easy walk to the quay.
By bus: The S1 bus runs regularly from Colchester town centre to Wivenhoe.
By car: Take the B1028 from Colchester. Street parking is available around the quay and in the village. Please drink responsibly — we're happy to call you a taxi.
On foot: Wivenhoe is a lovely walk or cycle along the River Colne from the University of Essex or Colchester.
Come & See Us
Drop in for a pint on the quay, stay for lunch, or bring the family for a Sunday roast. We're open seven days a week and dogs are always welcome.
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