This pub in the heart of Westham, Weymouth, has a rich history and has recently been revived.
Described as a ‘traditional-style family pub,’ The Rock Hotel on Abbotsbury Road was reopened by husband-and-wife team Mark and Lisa Stanley at Eastertime, who have taken the premises back to its roots and restored its original name.
A prominent feature of the building is the letters JG, which are positioned under the ridge on the gable end of the building, facing towards Abbotsbury Road.
This was commissioned by John Groves & Sons Ltd of Hope Brewery, Hope Square, Weymouth which formerly owned the establishment.
Built in the 1800s, the Rock was initially a tavern and holds the title of ‘the first and oldest pub in Westham.’
In more recent history, the premises has been home to Sambos Bar and Grill, as well as a Flaming Jack’s Bar and Grill.
Speaking of the pub’s triumphant revival, Lisa said: “People are happy that it is just a local and traditional pub. It’s definitely been difficult, but we are loving it. We are especially loving getting to know everybody and we enjoy working together.”
Mark added: “We didn’t think that it would take off so well – we have got a good group of customers in.
“Everyone is happy, they laugh, and smile and they all talk to each other – It’s definitely a community pub.”
This is undeniable as shortly after I was chatting with the owners, three regulars approached me to tell me just what they think about the Rock.
One of the pub regulars said: “It’s great to have a local pub back. It’s excellent stuff, I give it a 10-star rating.”
Owners have also tried to make sure there are plenty of opportunities for people to get involved at the pub with quiz nights, darts teams, skittles teams, pool tables, live music and even a bit of karaoke.
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At present the pub does not serve any food but there are plans in the pipeline to make this a reality.
It is also a dog-friendly location as the family have their own eight-year-old basset hound called Marley.
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