Hidden Henley

The Red Cross pub from years ago

Most people will walk past this fine cottage in New Street towards the river in our town and never notice the clues to its former life. Above the window ledges built into the metal retaining bars, on the beam high on the building that supported the sign, and on the back gate to the former beer garden – that’s given it away! – there are red crosses incorporated. Yes, this was the Red Cross public house and it was a popular refreshment spot for rowers in the past.

This street formed the northern border of our town in medieval times and with what is now Radnor Close leading to Phyllis Court, which was once a hunting lodge used by Henry VIII, this area has plenty of history.

A leaflet from the 1980’s lists an impressive 130 Brakspear Houses or pubs and many of these were in Henley or close by. In keeping with the national trend, Red Cross Cottage is just one of many buildings that were once pubs.