River Hill

The Conservation Area now swings round into River Hill and Mill Road. This part of Cobham was drastically changed in the 1960s when the road was widened into a dual carriageway. Formerly this had been a narrow hill with old houses on either side. The Bear (now The Old Bear) stood back from the road in a small square. Most of the buildings here dated from the middle of the 18th century and were small, artisan cottages. Older houses could be found on the opposite side of the road, opposite The Bear, on the site now occupied by the rather incongruous parade of shops adjoining La Capanna. Amongst these were three 16th century cottages backing onto the river which, consequently, were often subjected to flooding. Next to La Capanna stood Teetgens General Stores, formerly known as Wests. La Capanna, formerly The Old Cottage Restaurant, has as its nucleus a small 15th century hall house. The building was at one time used by a glove maker and the collection of outbuildings was known as Felmongers Yard. The restaurant has an early 19th century facade and was recently almost completely rebuilt following threats of possible demolition. The Cobharn Conservation Group was particularly active in securing its preservation.

The Old Bear

The Bear is first heard of in 1719 when occupied by Joseph Jacob The building is thought to date from the 15th century and was perhaps originally three cottages. In 1721 a boy baptised at Cobham was named Richard Bear, born at the Bear, son of a stroller (actor). In 1781 the Manorial Court of Cobharn had dinner here, paying Sarah Downton £5.15s.6d., nearly half of which was for wine and beer.

 

The Walk
Church Gate House | St Andrews | Church Stile House | The Old Bear | Cobham Mill | Cedar House | The Running Mare | Korea Cottages | Stile Cottages | Ash Ford Bridge | St Michaels | The Cricketers | The Plough