A rich local history
The beautiful Grade II listed building housing The Dolphin Medical and Therapy Rooms in Ware is much more than just a historic structure; it’s a lively part of the town’s legacy, filled with rich local stories and events. Built around the 15th century, it was once at the heart of Ware’s bustling medieval market. The Dolphin Inn, first recorded in 1549, quickly became a popular gathering place for traders, travellers, and locals, witnessing centuries of community life.
Records preserved by the Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies (HALS) offer fascinating glimpses into life at The Dolphin. In September 1847, for example, a sale at the inn featured "neat household furniture, linen, an 8-day dial, and other effects," highlighting the inn’s community role and the many changes in ownership that shaped its history.
The Dolphin wasn’t only a centre of commerce; it also hosted more dramatic events. In November 1847, Francis Wren, a shoemaker from Cheshunt, was sentenced to a month in jail for drunkenly breaking two panes of glass at the inn. His arrest, which included an altercation with police officers, adds a rowdy chapter to The Dolphin’s past.
Find us
6-7 East St, Ware, SG12 9HJ
Contact us
Phone: 01920 421265
Opening hours
Monday - Sunday: 08:00 - 21:00
Additional hours and flexible arrangements are available on request
Throughout the years, The Dolphin saw many transformations. The 1891 Census provides a unique snapshot of its household, listing Caroline Heath, likely the sister of Gersham Heath, as head. Among the residents were George Charles Bond, a comedian from London, his wife Annie, a comedienne, and their young son Francis, hinting at the diverse characters who passed through its doors.
In 1901, David Hammond was listed as the licensed victualler of The Dolphin, and by 1911, his son Robert, a malt maker, was also living there. At that time, the building had eight rooms. By 1921, Robert Hammond had moved to 7 East Street and was working as a painter for a local builder.
The Dolphin continued to adapt over the decades. In the 1960s, it was repurposed as a tobacco and confectionery warehouse under G. Cooper. Then, in 1982, it became the Dolphin Surgery, serving Ware’s healthcare needs for nearly 40 years until the practice moved in 2021.
Today, The Dolphin stands as a cherished landmark, a testament to Ware’s rich history and resilience. Its walls have witnessed bustling market days, rowdy brawls, laughter, and quiet dedication. Now entering a new chapter, The Dolphin Medical and Therapy Rooms provides rental spaces for medical professionals, therapists, and counsellors, blending historical charm with modern utility—a living symbol of Ware’s vibrant and enduring story.