Historic Suffolk pub set to reopen under new ownership

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 13:37 · Archive

The Freston Boot, a 16th-century pub on the Shotley Peninsula, is to reopen after new owners announced refurbishment plans.

The Freston Boot, a historic pub on Freston Hill on the Shotley Peninsula in Suffolk, is to be reopened by new owners following a period of closure. The landlord, Tidal Hill Limited, recently took back control of the building, but new owners have now announced refurbishment plans. No opening date has yet been announced.

The pub has centuries of history. The Suffolk Pubs Guide records the Boot as having opened in the 16th century, while the Campaign for Real Ale says the core of the present building is thought to date from the 17th century. Extensions were added during the 18th or 19th centuries and again in the 20th century. Historical records name John Dawson at the Boot Inn in 1835 and John Burch as a blacksmith and publican in 1841. The site is visible on an Ordnance Survey map from around 1903.

More recently, the pub closed for a lengthy period from 2010 before reopening in July 2018 after a major refurbishment. Its grounds were landscaped and improved with garden and parking areas, and a cinema room was added. The pub closed again in July 2026 after its lease was forfeited, despite having been shortlisted weeks earlier for two Great British Pub Awards.

How it is being reported

• History of centuries old pub set for new futureThe Freston is preparing for another chapter after new owners announced plans to reopen the venue, but what does its past look like?East Anglian Daily Times · 1 Nov, 13:00
• History of centuries old pub set for new futureThe Freston is preparing for another chapter after new owners announced plans to reopen the venue, but what does its past look like?Ipswich Star · 1 Nov, 13:00

In this story: The Freston Boot · Shotley Peninsula · Suffolk · Tidal Hill Limited · Suffolk Pubs Guide · CAMRA

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