Romford and Rainham have a rich history when it comes to pubs, with legendary landlords and fascinating stories that have stood the test of time. In this exploration of vintage photos, we take a trip back in time to discover the unique charm and character of some of the most iconic pubs in the area.
The Albion – Dovers Corner, Rainham (circa 1967)
One such pub that has left a lasting impression is The Albion in Rainham. Originally established as The Canteen beer house in 1872 by Edward Blewitt, it was intended to serve the officers of the London Rifle Brigade who practiced nearby. The pub received a wine license in 1909 to better accommodate the officers, and in 1925, it was renamed The Albion after being acquired by Mann, Crossman, and Paulin. The original structure of the pub is still partly visible today, showcasing its rich history.
Now part of the Greene King chain, The Albion has transformed into a pub and restaurant, with the former rifle range being incorporated into the Ingrebourne Hill Country Park. The pub’s evolution over the years reflects the changing times and tastes of the community it serves, while still retaining its historical significance.
The Liberty Arms – Waterloo Road, Romford (1907)
Another pub that has left its mark on the local community is The Liberty Arms at the Romford Cavalry Barracks. Licensed in 1810, it saw a series of landlords over the years, with John Holmes becoming the landlord in 1843. However, the pub’s reputation allegedly deteriorated under Charles Matthews, leading to its closure under the 1904 Licensing Act, which aimed to reduce the number of pubs nationally.
The White Hart – High Street, Romford (1890)
The White Hart in Collier Row has a long history dating back to at least 1743 when it was known as the Harts Horns. Rebuilt in the early 1870s and acquired by Ind Coope and Company, the pub saw Frederick GH Bright as its landlord from 1904 until 1936 when he was attacked by burglars. The White Hart continued to thrive under new landlords Walter G Amey and Edward Fraser Carr, with the pub being rebuilt as a hotel in 1938.
The closure of The White Hart in 2006 marked the end of an era for the pub, signaling the changing landscape of the area and the evolving preferences of the local community. Despite its closure, the memories and stories of The White Hart continue to live on in the hearts of those who frequented its doors.
The Three Crowns – Rainham Ferry (1925)
The Three Crowns, originally known as the Ferry House, has a long-standing history dating back to at least 1556. Rebuilt in 1839 after a fire, the inn faced numerous challenges and ownership changes over the years. By 1951, the isolation caused by nearby industrial development led to the closure of The Three Crowns, which was eventually demolished in 1972.
A photo taken outside The Three Crowns in the 1920s captures the essence of the pub during its heyday. Charles R Byfield, who took over as landlord in 1911, brought his experience from managing The Bear and Ragged Staff in Crayford to The Three Crowns, leaving a lasting impact on the pub’s legacy.
As we delve into the vintage photos of Romford and Rainham pubs, we uncover a wealth of history, stories, and memories that have shaped the local community. Each pub has its own unique charm and character, reflecting the changing times and tastes of the area. While some pubs have closed their doors, their legacy lives on through the stories and memories shared by those who frequented them. Through these vintage photos, we can truly appreciate the rich pub history of Romford and Rainham.