The George, recorded from 1654, was an important coaching inn on the south side of the High Street, roughly opposite the Shambles. It was the terminus of the London horse drawn coaches. In the 18th century it was used for such dignified events as concerts, balls and assemblies. The George was also the meeting place of parish officers, petty sessions, the vestry and those persons involved in the development and promotion of the Stroudwater and Thames & Severn canals.
Gloucester Journal. An assembly will be held at the George Inn, Stroud, on Wednesday the 9th, April 1788. Tickets 3s each, teas, coffee, etc, to be had at George Inn.
Gloucester Journal: April 1791 – Stroudwater Navigation: The general half-yearly meeting of the Proprietors of the said Navigation will be held at the George Inn, in Stroud, on Tuesday the 12th inst. at eleven o’clock in the forenoon. Edward Harris, clerk.
The license of the George moved to a premises in King Street in 1818
George Tap, King Street
This splendid picture of the George Tap in Stroud has been loaned by Mrs Marque Bolton of 26 Southfield Road, Gloucester, whose uncle, the landlord Jack Reynolds, is pictured fifth from the right, with his wife and daughter Mary. Among the regulars gathered is Mr Jack Snell, fourth from left. The pub was demolished many years ago and the spot is now occupied by the Stroud Shopping Precinct.
The George Tap was the public bar of the Royal George Hotel. The Picture House was adjacent.
It was demolished in the 1930’s to make way for the new Ritz cinema.
Licensing Details:
Owner in 1891: Emma Bradford (free from brewery tie)
Rateable value in 1891: £13.0s.0d.
Type of licence in 1891: Alehouse
Owner in 1903: Ind Coope & Co., Ltd., Burton on Trent
Rateable value in 1903: £25.10s.0d.
Type of licence in 1903: Alehouse
Closing time in 1903:
Landlords:
1885 Sidney Organ
1891 Samuel Reynolds
1903 Robert Callingham
1927 Jack Reynolds