The Definitive Guide to the History of
Pubs and Beerhouses in Coventry

Drinking in an Old English Town

Holyhead, Holyhead Road

In 1929 the license for the Crystal Palace in the Burges was transferred to these premises, sometimes known as the Holyhead Hotel. The first licensee was Lesley White, who left the pub in 1960 after 31 years in charge. He exchanged licenses with Mr Stan Adkins, ex Coventry rugby player, of the White Lion, Brownshill Green. It always has been a popular pub, probably because of its prominent position on a main route into the city and at times has targeted a youthful clientele. It was renovated in 1984 and again in 2001 when it became an Ember Inn. This pub gets its name because it stands on the Holyhead Road, Thomas Telford's great coaching road from London to Holyhead.

LICENSEES: 1931 - 1940 Ray Lesley White (see also White Lion, Brownshill Green) 1955 - 1957 Agnes Walker 1960 Ray Lesley White 1960 onwards Stanley John Adkins (see also White Lion, Brownshill Green and Raglan Tavern, Raglan Street) 1977 - 1980 Roger Murray (moved from the Cheylesmore inn. Information thanks to Roger's son, Gary.)