Latest chapter opens in High Street revival

The former Three Cranes pub - dating back to 1470 - is now open as owner Chris Hamby’s antiques shop following a three-year project.

The upper floors comprise heritage rooms celebrating the history of the site, with original features and new exhibits.

Mr Hamby said: “It has been a long, arduous, costly but ultimately rewarding journey from the removal of the first piece of shuttering to the final lick of paint.

“The architects and builders have said it’s been one of the happiest sites to work on. Everyone’s taken a real interest in the project and helped me a lot.”

The timber-framed structure is the last surviving example of a medieval home in the borough.

Among the points of interest is a medieval canopy - one of just a few left and the reason for the building being grade II*-listed.

Further displays, pictures and stories will be added in the future.

Businessman Mr Hamby is transforming six properties on High Street.

Next door, the Thomas Badger town house - latterly the Italian restaurant - will become home to  Craft Corner & The Bears Den.

Hamby’s Shoes will move up to the former antique shop on the corner while the George Wright building is being converted into flats.

See next week’s Advertiser for the full story of the history and renovation of the Three Cranes.