Every Inn Has a Story
Explore our collection of characterful pubs, each with its own charm and welcoming atmosphere
The Butt and Oyster – Pin Mill
Overlooking the River Orwell at Pin Mill, The Butt and Oyster has long been a favourite of sailors, artists, and riverside visitors. Part of Deben Inns since 2001, it is one of Suffolk’s most picturesque and storied pubs, steeped in local history, love, and community spirit. Its timeless character has made it a star on screen, featuring in the TV series Lovejoy, the 1950s film Ha’penny Breeze, and even one of Ed Sheeran’s music videos. Outside, riverside tables offer front-row views of long boats on the river, ghost boats resting in the mud, and the annual May regatta event, making every visit a true Suffolk experience. Inside, wood fires crackle beneath traditional features, while a table by the window offers the perfect spot to sip Adnams Ghost Ship and watch the boats drift by a quintessential Pin Mill moment .The kitchen celebrates the coastal setting with seafood specials, daily seasonal dishes, and classic pub favourites. Adnams cask ales and carefully selected wines complement every meal, while breakfast and barista coffee make it a favourite morning stop for walkers, cyclists, and locals. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Butt and Oyster captures the enduring romance of the Suffolk waterfront where history, riverside life, and great food come together seamlessly.
The Coach and Horses – Melton
A vibrant local on the outskirts of Woodbridge, The Coach and Horses is a 17th-century coaching inn steeped in history and charm. Part of Deben Inns since 2011 as the fifth pub to join the group, it has been a focal point for the Melton community for generations. The pub also has historic links to the Melton Brewing Co. in 1902, reflecting its longstanding connection to Suffolk’s brewing heritage. Inside, original beams, a real fire, and traditional interiors create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while the bar buzzes with regular pub quizzes and lively social energy. The menu features classic pub favourites, such as hearty suet pudding, fish & chips and seasonal specials, alongside cocktails and barista coffee, making it perfect for casual lunches, relaxed dinners, or lively evenings with friends and family. The Coach and Horses is dog- and family-friendly, offering a relaxed environment for everyone. Especially during the festive season, it becomes a hub of local celebrations, with Breakfast with Santa, festive menus and views of the Christmas tractor light parade passing by, creating memorable seasonal experiences. Steeped in heritage yet lively and contemporary, the pub is a place for celebrations, birthdays, and large gatherings, keeping it at the heart of the community. Conveniently located near Sutton Hoo, Rendlesham Forest with its UFO trail, and the A12, it combines easy access with authentic Suffolk charm a historic pub where tradition, hospitality, and local life come together seamlessly.
The Fox – Newbourne
Instantly recognisable by its Suffolk pink exterior and the iconic red phone box at the entrance, The Fox has been part of Deben Inns since 2004 and is a cherished village landmark. With a history stretching back generations, it has long welcomed locals, walkers, and families exploring the surrounding countryside. Known for quality without pretension, it has earned multiple accolades — including Suffolk Pub of the Year, recognition in the East of England section of the 2024 National Pub & Bar Awards, and again shortlisted for Suffolk in 2025.Step inside, and history is all around you. Old coins sunken into the beams reportedly left by soldiers during wartime to guarantee themselves a beer on their return, share space with the traditional dog friendly bar area and log burner, creating a warm, authentic atmosphere. A modern extension adds light and comfort without taking away the pub’s historic character. In summer, the building is framed by iconic hanging baskets, and the large garden complete with pond and covered barn, becomes a lively hub for live music and gatherings. The kitchen serves exceptional Sunday roasts, homemade pizzas, and a changing selection of seasonal food specials, all made with care from locally sourced ingredients. A rolling selection real ales and local beers provide a refreshing reward after a dog walk in the surrounding countryside, including the Newbourne Springs walks. Open seven days a week with all-day dining, The Fox is a welcoming destination where village character, quirky history, and award-winning food come together a place that feels both timeless and alive.
Kings Head – Woodbridge
Right in the centre of Woodbridge, The Kings Head has long been part of the town’s everyday life. Once known as a lively rugby pub and always a popular meeting place on market days — with stalls set up just outside — it remains a natural hub for locals and visitors alike. Since joining Deben Inns in 2023, it has continued to blend tradition with a fresh, welcoming energy. There’s character in every corner. From cosy rooms and original features to the well-loved open fire in winter, it feels like a proper town pub. In warmer months, the courtyard garden offers a relaxed escape just steps from the busy high street. And yes, there are even a few local ghost stories that add to its charm after dark. Our menus celebrate classic pub dishes done well, alongside seasonal specials and traditional Sunday roasts. Expect game dishes when in season, great burgers, and comforting favourites, all paired perfectly with classic Adnams ales and carefully selected wine lists. Regular live music, social gatherings and private celebrations keep the atmosphere vibrant, while our function room provides space for birthdays, meetings and special occasions. The Kings Head reflects Woodbridge itself, historic yet lively, welcoming yet full of character. It’s not just in Woodbridge, It’s part of Woodbridge.
The Maybush – Waldringfield
Few pubs capture Suffolk’s rivers like The Maybush. Sitting on the banks of the River Deben and part of Deben Inns since 1997, it’s famous for its expansive riverside beer garden, panoramic conservatory dining with bi-fold doors, and the gentle rhythm of the tide. Known locally as a perfect spot for first dates, it’s a place visitors keep coming back to. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with nautical décor and historic touches, including a spinner on the ceiling, once a pub gambling game with many stories to tell. The interior combines traditional Suffolk pub charm with a sense of place that feels timeless. Head chef Jamie serves pub classics, seafood specials, and his legendary lasagne, alongside traditional Sunday roasts, fish and chips, and seasonal dishes. Adnams ales are poured with pride, and barista coffee fuels walkers, cyclists, and morning visitors. Outside, the riverside garden offers a peaceful retreat where sailing boats drift past, and families enjoy long sunny lunches. With a large car park and dog-friendly spaces, The Maybush is perfect for breakfasts, lunches, or relaxed evening meals. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Maybush is one of Suffolk’s most iconic waterside pubs, where the river sets the pace and every visit feels like a small escape
The Ship – Levington
With its charming thatched roof and Grade II-listed status, The Ship is the quintessential Suffolk village pub. Part of Deben Inns since 2019, it blends historic character with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Originally known as The Musket, the pub has a colourful past — reportedly linked to the notorious Suffolk smuggler Margaret Catchpole. A hidden cupboard tucked beneath the eaves once served to conceal stolen goods, adding intrigue to its long history .Inside, low beams, coal fires, and traditional interiors create a cosy welcome in cooler months, while in summer the large enclosed beer garden comes alive. Children’s play equipment, pony parking, and nearby riverside walks make it a firm favourite for families, dog walkers, and equestrian visitors. Set in the peaceful village of Levington, near the River Orwell, The Ship is perfectly positioned with easy access to Felixstowe and Ipswich via the nearby A14. Despite its tucked-away feel, it remains deeply connected to the local community. The kitchen serves food all day, with seasonal specials with a modern twist, generous Sunday roasts, and the very popular Ship cold seafood platter. Local beers and spirits showcase the region, and buffet and function options make it ideal for celebrations of all kinds.
The Swan – Westerfield
A true local for everyone, The Swan in Westerfield has been part of Deben Inns since 2014. Housed in a building dating back to the 1830s, the pub combines historic character with modern comfort. Famously frequented by the cartoonist Carl Giles, it even appeared in one of his illustrations, highlighting its long-standing presence in the Suffolk community. Step inside to discover a spacious, airy restaurant, warm interiors, and flexible areas for functions, large parties, and family celebrations. The pub is dog- and family-friendly, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, including traditional Sunday roasts, seasonal specials, and classic pub favourites. Gluten-free options ensure everyone can enjoy the menu, while a carefully selected wine list, real ales, and premium spirits cater to all tastes. Outside, the shaded garden provides a peaceful spot to relax and watch the day go by, surrounded by the Suffolk countryside. Food and drink offers are available year-round via our app, and free Wi-Fi keeps everyone connected while enjoying the pub’s relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual meal, weekend dinner, or family gathering, The Swan combines heritage, warmth, and hospitality in a welcoming environment where everyone is made to feel at home.
The Wilford Bridge – Melton
Nestled beside the River Deben and part of Deben Inns since 1991, The Wilford Bridge is a welcoming pub shaped by its riverside proximity and natural surroundings. Perfectly located near Melton train station and within easy reach of Sutton Hoo and Rendlesham Forest, it’s ideal for walkers, history lovers, and families exploring Suffolk’s coast and countryside. The pub offers a gravelled garden, dog-friendly dining, and a menu of comforting classics, including fish and chips and traditional Sunday roasts. Seasonal specials showcase local suppliers, and modern twists like the fresh poke bowl famously enjoyed by Ed Sheeran on a recent visit keep the menu exciting. There’s even a canine menu for four-legged friends. Open seven days a week, The Wilford Bridge is designed for easy afternoons, relaxed meals, and unhurried gatherings, where countryside charm and contemporary dining meet.
Cliff Road, Waldringfield
IP12 4QL
Call : 01473 736215
Email : Maybush@debeninns.co.uk
Church Lane, Levington
IP10 0LQ
Call : 01473 659573
Email : ship@debeninns.co.uk
The Street, Newbourne
IP12 4NY
Call : 01473 736307
Email : Fox@debeninns.co.uk
Melton Road, Melton
IP12 1PD
Call : 01394 384851
Email: coachandhorses@debeninns.co.uk
Wilford Bridge Road, Melton
IP12 2PA
Call : 01394 386141
Email : wilfordbridge@debeninns.co.uk
Pin Mill, Ipswich
IP9 1JW
Call : 01473 780764
Email : buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk
Westerfield Road, Ipswich
IP6 9AJ
Call : 01473 251447
Email : swan@debeninns.co.uk
IP12 4 LP
Call : 01394 387754
Email : kingshead@debeninns.co.uk
Head Office
The Maybush IP12 4QL
Call: 01473 736215
Email: support@debeninns.co.uk
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