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Riviera Centre, Torquay
11-13 April 2025
One of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world.
Units 3-5, Heathfield Industrial Estate, Heathfield Street, Elland, HX5 9AE
Westgate Brewery, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QT
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A characterful five roomed pub close to the historic Quay and a large public car-park. The pub also offers accommodation (4 en-suite letting rooms). It also has an orchard. There's lots of character within this impressive old building which has undergone a significant but tasteful refurbishment.
Some steps initially lead down from the street level into the main bar. This links to small snug located behind the huge fireplace.
They allow dogs and are child friendly.
A large beer garden with plenty of cover (should it rain).
Historic Interest
The 1904 Woodbridge licensing records show that the Jolly Sailor's licence was issued in 1860. Whether this was when it was first licensed or when it got a full (ie not just beer) licence isn't clear, though the latter seems more probable. A paperback book published in 1969, called "Inns of the Suffolk Coast" by Leonard P Thompson** contains the following extract: "In December, 1908, William Brinkley took over the inn, followed by, in October, 1911, Phillip Obed Bixby, of the King's Head who appointed his cousin, Frederick Neale, as manager. In January, 1914, Stephen Harper took over on a valuation of £39 13s 6d & he ran it until his death in May, 1939, when he was succeeded by his son, Sidney - popularly known as Steve, who (was still there in 1969). The holding of a public-house licence by a father & then son for over 55 continuous years, is a splendid achievement. In 1914, the ownership of the property lay with George Rope & it was sold after his death at a sale on 25.07.1919" According to Alfred Hedges' book, "Inns & Inn Signs of Norfolk & Suffolk". the pub is reputed to have been built from the timbers of wrecked ships. The Grade II Listed building probably dates back to the 17th century. Photographs of this pub and more up-to-date and detailed information about it can be found at suffolk.camra.org.uk/pub/787
One star - A pub interior of special national historic interest
Listed status: II
The sea has long deserted the quayside but an authentic nautical atmosphere lingers at this 17th century pub formed from two houses. Steps lead down to a simply furnished but superb main bar with low ceiling, flagstone floor and an aged scrubbed table. The bar counter is at least 70 years old as the photos in the snug show; the tongue and groove panelling and some of the bar back shelves attached could be of similar date. To the right past an ancient spiral staircase is the cracking little snug; one panelled wall looks post war. The dining room to the left has an impressive fireplace but almost certainly represents an extension into an adjoining property, as does the room behind it The rear entrance accesses an off-sales hatch to the back of the bar but this is no longer in use. Alongside it is the small bare-boarded former 'Chart Room', now an office.
The sea has long deserted the quayside but the authentic nautical atmosphere remains. This is a 17th century pub formed from two houses. Steps lead down to a simply furnished but superb main bar with low ceiling, flagstone floor and an ancient scrubbed table. The bar counter is at least 70 years old as the photos in the snug show: the tongue and groove panelling (sadly painted gastro grey) and some of the bar back shelves attached could be of similar date. To the right past an ancient spiral staircase is a cracking little snug; one panelled wall looks post war. The dining room to the left has an impressive fireplace but almost certainly represents an extension into an adjoining property. Beyond this is another room brought into use - it has a brick floor, large old brick fireplace and an old corner cupboard. From the rear entrance there is an off-sales hatch to the back of the bar but this is no longer in use. Alongside it is the small bare boarded 'Chart Room' that was formerly the Stout & Oyster Bar, added in a 1950s flat room extension; however it is currently office space.
Jolly Sailor, Orford
Lunchtime Meals
Evening Meals
Garden
Family Friendly
Parking
Dog Friendly
Accommodation
Games
Real Fire
Restaurant
Separate Bar
Real Ale
Real Heritage Pub
Quiet
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