We’ve got everything you need from a country pub near you.

After the siege of Colchester in 1648, Parliamentary soldiers came looking for John Wenlock, a loyalist who had long suffered for his support of Charles I. When they eventually found him, he was hauled to the Crown Inn, where he was brought before the rest of the troopers and their commander-in-chief who were lodged there.

Our menus are full of hearty favourites and country pub classics, as well as our seasonal spring dishes, and we’ll be ready with a well-stocked bar, including cask ales, fine wines and British gin to suit very taste - which will taste all the better when enjoyed either in our beautiful gardens or by our crackling log fires.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Picture this: a warm, inviting country pub, nestled in the heart of your local community, brimming with character and charm. Welcome to Vintage Inns in Colchester, where tradition meets modern comforts to offer you an unforgettable experience.

At Vintage Inns, we believe that great food is at the heart of every great pub experience. Our chefs take pride in crafting classic country pub meals, each plate a testament to our love for hearty, wholesome food. From our signature dishes mouthwatering Sunday roasts, our menu is as varied as it is delicious. Sign up to our email club to be the first to hear of any future exclusive offers.

Our impressive black and white timbered inn with its pretty gardens dates to at least 1648. It's near Ardleigh Reservoir - a lovely walking area - and is a popular stop off for travellers from Ipswich and Felixstowe.

What’s a pub without a fantastic selection of drinks? At Vintage Inns, we've curated an impressive range of cask ales and fine wines to tempt even the most discerning of palates. From traditional, locally-brewed ales to a world-class selection of wines, there's something for everyone at The Crown, Ardleigh. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you find your perfect pour. Speaking of our staff: we’re always looking for new people to join our Vintage family - check out our jobs page for the latest vacancies.

We provide free parking for guests of the Crown pub. To ensure spaces are available for our guests - we have a car parking control in place - please ensure you enter your vehicle registration on the secure digital pad at the bar during your visit.