Chelmsford’s Ghost Pubs – The Coach & Horses

Just look at this fascinating photo of March’s historic hostelry. Demolished in the early 1900s, The Coach & Horses stood along Duke Street on a site now occupied by the oldest parts of County Hall.

What scene would have awaited an eager drinker who passed through the open door between the two bay windows facing onto the street? Was the ale of fine quality? Were the regulars a friendly bunch? Was it known for its lock-ins? We will never know.

The pub’s demise made way for the construction in 1909 of the Essex County Council’s headquarters, a building designed by architect Frank Whitmore (1844–1920) in a classical style. 

Born in 1844 in Suffolk, Whitmore is thought to have spent most of his life in Chelmsford. Early in his career, he was selected to work for the Chinese Government to set up a new settlement. After four years, he returned to England.

Several other significant Whitmore buildings survive locally, including:

·       Ford End Primary School, the original part of the school (1873), is attributed to Whitmore.

·       Courtman House (formerly Maltese House), a substantial Victorian villa designed c.1885 by Whitmore for himself, where he lived until his death.

·       The Old Police Station at 58–59 New Street (corner with Waterloo Lane) and opposite, the Shire Hall, eastern extension (both 1903-4).

Whitmore served as Chelmsford’s mayor 1892-3 and was influential in the laying out of Central Park in 1894. Frank Whitmore Green, a public green space in Chelmsford city centre, is named in his honour, reflecting his local legacy.

 Let’s raise a glass to Frank!