Attracted to great beer?
Colchester's first micropub has been constructed in a delightful corner of the former Norfolk Public House, which closed its doors in 2018.
You can read more about the history of The Norfolk and the area around the station under the "History" section.
We are totally independent, not tied to any brewers, pub co or distributer. The Magnet aims to offer a congenial and relaxed environment to enjoy a range of:
Cask Ale - a dedicated cold room has been built, with the aim of serving this wonderful product at its best. Three handles have been installed. Initially the focus will be on locally produced ales.
Keg Ale & Cider - a mixture of the "off beat" and "old favourites," whether a crisp pilsner or fruity IPA, there should always be something to fit the moment.
Real Cider - locally sourced, where possible.
Bottles & Cans - A myriad selection of styles, running the gamut from Alcohol free to Belgian.
Spirits - Locally distilled spirits. Would you believe it, gin, vodka, rum etc. is produced locally and is superb.
Hot Drinks - Locally sourced tea and coffee, lovingly brewed.
So please come and join us outside in our sunny and shaded courtyard, or indoors.
Team Magnet
P.S. The pub was named The Magnet to celebrate the achievements of local lad William Gilberd. If you want to know more about this fine fellow, keep reading.
William Gilbert: Mr Magnet
The Magnet Micropub is named in honour of famous Colcestrian William Gilbert (also known as Gilberd).
Gilbert was a 16th-century physician, physicist and natural philosopher, now best remembered for his book De Magnete, published in 1600.
He performed experiments with his model Earth called the terrella, concluding that the Earth was itself magnetic and that this was the reason compasses point north. He was also the first to argue, correctly, that the centre of the Earth was iron, and he considered an important and related property of magnets was that they can be cut, each forming a new magnet with north and south poles.
Gilbert also invented the first electrical measuring instrument, the electroscope and in 1646 the word "electricity" was first used by Sir Thomas Browne, derived from Gilbert's 1600 New Latin electricus, meaning "like amber". The term had been in use since the 13th century, but Gilbert was the first to use it to mean "like amber in its attractive properties".
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