Skip to main content

Haunted Hosts

The Rose And Crown Hotel Colchester Historical Archives

Discover the fascinating history behind The Rose And Crown Hotel Colchester. From its Portions dating back to c.1400 AD (over 600 years old) origins to its role in local heritage.

Building Age: Portions dating back to c.1400 AD (over 600 years old)
Original Purpose: Coaching inn for travelers on the London–Harwich road (medieval tavern and lodging)
Architecture: Timber-framed Tudor coaching inn, later updated with Georgian and Victorian touches. Its facade features exposed wooden beams and leaded windows, while inside boasts low ceilings, oak rafters, and an original inglenook fireplace – all carefully preserved to honor its listed status.
View Hotel Details Visit Hotel
1
Historical Articles
2
Total Read Time (mins)
1400
Est. Founded
1
Historical Themes

Historical Significance

Colchester’s oldest hotel, standing since the 15th century. It survived an 18th-century town fire and even tremors from the 1884 Colchester earthquake. In its cellar, actual 17th-century prison cells were discovered – the inn once held prisoners destined for Colchester Castle via a secret tunnel. Over centuries it hosted countless traders and even soldiers during the English Civil War. The building’s endurance through wars and disasters is a testament to its sturdy medieval construction.

Rose & Crown Hotel history

1 article in this theme

Historical Article

The Rose & Crown: Centuries of History, Hauntings, and Survival in Colchester

2 min read 8 key events 6 topics

Delve into the rich and often turbulent history of The Rose & Crown Hotel, Colchester’s oldest hotel, from its 15th-century origins as a coaching inn, through fires, earthquakes, and wars, to its enduring status as a paranormal landmark.

Timeline Preview:

c. 1400 AD The Rose & Crown is established as a coaching inn.
17th Century The inn is used as a stop-over for prisoners; prison cells later discovered in the cellar were likely in use. Potential connections to English Civil War activities.
18th Century The hotel survives a significant Colchester town fire. A Georgian facade is added to the building.
+5 more events...
Rose & Crown Hotel history Colchester oldest hotel medieval coaching inn Essex Colchester earthquake 1884 Colchester Civil War history 17th century prison cells Colchester
Read Full Article

Explore More

Hotel Details
View full hotel information
County Guide
Explore Essex
All Counties
Browse all locations

Don't Miss New Haunted Hotels

Be the first to discover newly added haunted accommodations. Get exclusive ghost stories, special offers, and paranormal travel tips delivered to your inbox.

No spam, just spine-chilling stories. Unsubscribe anytime.