Pub history

The Red Anchor

Ropner’s shipbuilding company was on the north shore of the River Tees, where there were several smaller yards. Centuries earlier, nearby Yarm was the first port to develop on the river, yet could not compete with Stockton-on-Tees. The importance of ships and shipping is reflected in the borough’s coat of arms, with its background of six white-and-blue waves and a red anchor reflecting the area’s seafaring traditions.