KINGS HEAD - DISS

c1906

Possibly originated as a refreshment house in the 14thC.

A timber framed Coaching Inn with musicians gallery, dating from the 1640's.

It was announced 8th April 1748 that this ancient and well accustomed house was to be sold. The occupant at the time being William Wooley.

A Book Club is recorded as meeting here during the years 1756 to 1775.

An Assembly and Ball held here 17th June 1761.

The Anniversary of the Constitution of the Royal Alfred Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons was held here Monday 5th July 1779.

An Inland Revenue office operated here in the 18thC.

Thomas Barker advised 10th June 1786 that he had taken the Inn.

** Offered For Sale by Auction, Friday, 22nd November 1799.
Containing 3 Parlours in front, large Dining-room, good Beds and Stabling for 50 Horses.
In occupation of Mr. Philip Palmer.

** Mr. Philip Palmer was present at a meeting of the Diss Association for the prosecution of Horse-Stealers, held at the Kings Head on 3rd June 1801.

All the Household Furniture, Plate, Linen and China of the Kings Head Inn were to be Sold by Auction, Thursday 10th October 1801, and on the following two days.

Advertised To Let, 3rd October 1801, from Michaelmas.
<10th October, Old Style>
Enquiries to Messrs. Layman and Wiseman, Diss, who had bought the Premises.

J. Maplestone acquainted the Public, 7th October 1801, that he had taken the Inn.

All the Household Furniture, Plate, Linen and China, of the King's Head were to be Sold By Auction, Thursday 8th October 1801.

An Assembly Room was included in the 1840 sale.

30th September 1845 - William Button thanked the Nobility, Gentry, Commercial Gentlemen and the Public in general for the support they had conferred upon his late mother-in-law, Mrs Maplestone. Having taken on the recently rebuilt and enlarged Inn, he could offer increased comfort and service and looked forward to their continuation of patronage.

William Button acknowledged the increased support he had received since he had completed the alterations and improvements to the Old Established Inn (& Railway Office) - June and again, July 1849.

Mr. Button, late of the Kings Head, was in court Thursday 3rd January 1850, having been called to give evidence against six persons accused of attempting to embezzle £300 jointly from the late Thomas Dyson and Thomas Loomb Taylor. Button refused to give any evidence since he considered any answer given could be construed to incriminate himself.

William Moore informed the Inhabitants of Diss, 19th November 1853, that he had entered the house as successor of the late, much respected Landlady Mrs. Sarah Butcher.

Mr. William Moore junior succeeded his father and had his opening dinner on Thursday 17th December 1863.

Mrs Pike served tea in her excellent style, to the corps of the 8th Norfolk Rifle Volunteers on Tuesday 1st October 1867.

Charles Barfoot had `lately taken over' the house when a market and opening tea was provided for about ninety persons Friday 28th May 1869.

Charles Barfoot was charged Wednesday, 10th April 1872 of allowing card playing in his house. Mr. Barfoot admitted that on 8th March 1872, he had allowed the game of "All Fours" to be played and left his fate in the hands of the Bench. Not thinking it fit to endorse his licence, a fine of £1 and 18s 6d costs was considered appropriate. However, should there be a reoccurrence, a much greater penalty would be imposed.

Advertised as a Family & Commercial Hotel & Posting House in early 1900's.

The death of Frederick Joseph Burrage, on Friday 18th August 1811, following " a brief but painful illness", he was aged 75.
It was reported that he had succeeded Charles Barfoot in 1877 and had been tenant of the hostelry for 34 years.

At the Grand Dance held on Easter Monday, 10th April 1950, dancing was to be held from 8:30 pm to 1:00 am.
Music provided by the Playmates Dance Band.
Admission 4/- or 5/- at the door.
Proceeds in aid of the Over 60's Club.

It was reported August 1950 that Messrs. Youngs, Crawshay & Youngs had recently re-lined the public and saloon bars with light oak panelling rescued from Hevingham Hall.

On Tuesday 23rd January, 1951 the Norfolk Stockman's Club were to present a film on "The Dairy Cow" followed by a "Mardle", at the King's Head at 7:30 pm. All Stockmen and Stock Farmers were welcome.

On 3rd February 1951 a Grand Carnival dance was to be held at the King's Head Ballroom. Entertainment provided by Steve Stevenson and his Rhythmics. 8 to 12 pm. Admission by Ticket 3/-, at the Door 3/6d
.

Bullards beers and a comprehensive wine list advertised 1967 / 1968 with Luncheon served for the price of 9/6d and Dinner for 12/6d.
The Waverley Trio providing background music on Saturday nights.

Described August 1971 as "Not strictly a pub, but a one-star hotel".

Official Receiver called in during the week of 11th April 1986.
House still open September 1986.