The Ivy House

What was once the Newlands Tavern is now a beacon of community spirit: The Ivy House. This pub, standing proudly at 40 Stuart Road, has a fascinating history etched into its very walls. The Ivy House first opened its doors in 1938. Designed by A.E. Sewell for Truman’s Brewery, the building replaced an even older pub dating back to the 1860s. Take a moment to appreciate the curved bar, the timber paneling, and the concert hall at the back. These features are not mere decorations; they are echoes of a bygone era. Did you know this pub almost met an untimely end? During World War II, a V1 rocket narrowly missed The Ivy House, devastating much of the surrounding street. This near miss speaks volumes about the pub’s resilience. In the 1970s, The Ivy House became a hub for music lovers. The pub rock boom saw legendary acts like Ian Dury and Elvis Costello gracing its stage. Over the years, the pub has gone through name changes, from the Stuart Arms to its current moniker, The Ivy House. But its spirit, its connection to the community, has remained constant. Today, The Ivy House holds the distinct honor of being the UK’s first co-operatively owned pub. In 2012, when faced with the threat of redevelopment, the community rallied together. They secured its Grade II listing and purchased it through a community share issue. The Ivy House stands as a testament to the power of collective action.