The answer is simple: 1917. We have always been pretty sure about this. World War I (1914-18) was tough for pubs. The Government slashed opening hours in 1914 (afternoon closing remained in place until 1980s) and in 1917 beer production was 1/3 of pre-war levels due to a shortage of barley. Also large numbers of regular customers were away fighting (especially after conscription was introduced in 1916).
The date of 1917 was confirmed for us recently when a friend sent us a cutting from the Bucks Herald, advertising the former Rose and Crown Inn for auction as a freehold home.
James Kempton
