Smugglers' Haven

The tiny hamlet of Pin Mill established itself as a base for the repair of Thames Barges and sail-making many, many moons ago. It has been said that this remote location on the River Orwell and in particular the Butt and Oyster Inn, was a favourite resort of smugglers.

The pub was once owned by the Tolly Cobbold brewery, but is now one of the very good Deben Inns (by the way, the Cliff Brewery Tap in Ipswich of Tolly Cobbold fame is a fine pub too).

Things haven't changed so much in Pin Mill over the centuries. The pub and Thames Barges remain. Sail making is no more an occupation; today there is nothing more than a small chandlers. However, take away the cars and the picture could have been taken 100 years ago.