LUSCIOUS sunshine, an ice cold pint of cider bubbling away and stunning views across the marina – what more could you ask for on a mid-June afternoon?

If the answer to that is ‘nothing,’ then The Ship Inn does not disappoint.

When I first visited The Ship several years ago, the potential of the place was clear for all to see, but it didn’t quite seem to be fulfilling it.

Today, it is a very different story.

Its picturesque slap-bang-on-the-water setting still remains the primary attraction for tourists, passers by and indeed the regular punters, but these days the pub has so much more to it than its picture postcard location.

Inside, the décor is warm and inviting, the atmosphere is pleasant and the bar staff, fronted by licensee Chris James, are friendly and welcoming.

The interior has been cleverly designed to accommodate every type of punter.

There is a restaurant area for those looking for a quiet or romantic meal, tables around the bar for families to grab a quick bite to eat or a drink and a decking area outside for those who want to sample the views in all their glory while supping their pints.

And the value for money is worth shouting about too.

The Ship’s extensive menu offers freshly cooked main meals starting from a very reasonable £7.95, with pub classics including burgers and gammon steak joined by seasonal delights such as venison and sea bass.

On Sundays, the pub serves up its unique but mouth-watering Sunday Platter – a selection of roasted meats, with all the trimmings, for just £10.50 per person.

Behind the bar, there are a wide range of beers, ciders and wines to choose from, with pints priced from £2.80 and the cheapest glass of wine coming in at £2.60.

The summer drinks menu also tickles the taste buds, with the promise of various fruitinfused cocktails and pitchers.

And for those looking to celebrate with something a bit stronger, ‘Thank Fizz it’s Friday’ offers customers a bottle of Champagne for just £19, from 5pm onwards.

Who said it was all about the views?

• The Ship Inn,
The Quay,
Lymington,
SO41 3AY
01590 676903
theshiplymington.co.uk.