IT occupies a prime site at the top of what is probably the best-known street in a Hampshire town.

The 300-year-old King’s Head stands at the entrance to a cobbled thoroughfare that leads down to Lymington’s historic town quay.

The picture-perfect pub has graced countless calendars and post cards and is instantly recognisable – even to people who have never been there.

A cosy bar next to a roaring log fire helps create the warm, friendly atmosphere for which the popular watering hole is renowned.

The dimly-lit interior enhances its olde world appeal, while photographs of racing yachts reflect its location at the heart of a sailing mecca.

Customers have included Lymington-based Sir Ben Ainslie, dubbed the greatest Olympic sailor of all time after notching up four gold medals over the past 20 years.

Leslie Thomas, author of The Virgin Soldiers and other best-selling novels, also used to pop in when he lived at nearby Captains Row.

Daily Echo:

Staff Lewis West, Rory Spurway and Freya Nye

The manager is Rory Spurway, 29, who worked in the kitchens for several years before being appointed to his current role.

Rory, a former pupil of Priestlands School in Lymington, said: “I came here on work experience and never left.

“It’s a proper, traditional pub in a really good location at the top of the cobbles coming up from the quay.

“There’s a lovely atmosphere in here, especially in the winter when the fires are going and it’s full of customers.”

Listing some of the changes that have taken place there over the years Mr Spurway added: “Since the smoking ban came in we’ve moved with the times and become more food-led. We’ve got a brilliant chef in Annie Blake and our food is a big attraction for a lot of people.”

The sandwich menu alone is enough to tempt even the most discerning diner.

Fillings include crayfish, smoked salmon and other ingredients that reflect the pub’s coastal setting, while Tom’s Homemade Desserts, compiled by second chef Tom Stevens, include apple and berry crumble, profiteroles with white chocolate sauce and chocolate roulade with fresh cream.

Rory added: “We’ve got a good mix of |customers, plenty of locals plus a large number of visitors – especially when the yachts are in during the summer.”

  • The King’s Head, 1 Quay Hill, Lymington.

SO41 3AR. Tel: 01590 672709.