The Royal Oak pub in Stowmarket has announced it will remain closed after a fire ripped through a nearby funeral home.
The pub’s kitchen suffering the heaviest smoke damage as the intake fans drew smoke throughout the building.
The blaze broke out at Andrew Bingham Independent Funeral Service on Milton Road South at around 6.25pm on Saturday, September 27. Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service attended alongside police, closing the road while the fire was extinguished.
No injuries were reported, but the fire caused significant damage to the funeral home.
A 47-year-old man from Stowmarket was arrested in connection with the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning. He was questioned at Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre and has since been released on bail to answer on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about suspicious behaviour before the fire. Anyone with details is asked to contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference number 37/54822/25.
The Royal Oak said it continues deep cleaning after the smoke damage and hopes to reopen on Tuesday.
The pub has a long history in Stowmarket, with photographs from 1910 and 1916 showing it trading as the “Royal Oak Stores. The building itself dates back to the early 19th century.
The Royal Oak has faced challenges in recent years. It temporarily closed in 2023 and reopened after a £320,000 refurbishment. The Rose and Thorn Pub Company later took over.
James Farrington, a Stowmarket local, acts as general manager. In June 2025, he spoke to the media about problems with “disrespectful vandalism,” citing mirrors, signs, and dartboards damaged, slowing the team’s efforts to revitalise the venue.
Despite these setbacks, the pub remains an integral part of the community. Staff and management have emphasised their commitment to reopening as soon as possible, restoring the pub for local residents to enjoy food, drinks, and events once more.
Reviews on Trip advisor from 2025 included the following:
“Great menu and very good value for money. Welcoming and friendly family atmosphere and staff couldn’t do enough for us. The coffee and cake offer is lovely and great place to meet and be in.” Sept 2025
“What amazing food, you have to try the Korean belly of port dish. What lovely staff, I love coming here with a good catch up with friends. James has turned this pub around compared to how it used to be run by previous landlords” – March 2025
