IT may be only across the water from one of the most popular sailing bugs in the south, but one Hampshire pub is holding its own against the competition.

The Rising Sun has been a feature on the waterfront at Warsash for more than 200 years and still retains its traditional pub feel.

With regulars who have been coming for more than 25 years, the pub continues to thrive, though it admits it is reliant on these people as well as word of mouth. As the closest pub to the shoreline in Warsash, overlooking the mouth of River Hamble, this has its advantages and drawbacks.

General Manager Russell Wilding says the pub cannot rely on any passing trade, describing it as a “destination” pub.

In recent times the venue’s proximity to the water has almost been too close for comfort.

The Valentine’s Day storm of February 2014 saw gravel tossed up by the wind blow out a window and water lapping at the pub’s front door.

That is the closest that Russell has ever seen it come to flooding.

However, as one of four pubs in the village, its location makes it particularly popular in the summer with views onto the water. It also benefits from customers coming from the Warsash Maritime Academy as well as sailors and local fishermen.

Despite a number of pubs in the village of Hamble, a well-known yachting mecca only across the other side of the river, Russell says that The Rising Sun can stand up to the competition.

“It doesn’t affect us too much because we have got the free parking whereas everyone in Hamble has to pay,” said Russell.

“We tend to get a lot of trade coming to us because they don’t have to pay for parking. They have drinks, get the ferry over to Hamble.

“We get a lot of trade off the water as well as people coming down to look at the historic side of Hamble.”

The pub has plenty of its own history.

Opened in 1807, it was initially called the Shipwright Arms, later changing to The Malthouse and then The Rising Sun.

It remains a predominantly traditional drinking establishment, though it offers food.

“It’s a friendly atmosphere - everyone’s welcome - dog walkers, sailors and the like,” said Russell, who has been in charge for a year but was deputy manager for the previous eight years.

“It’s quite an easy going relaxed atmosphere.

“It’s a lovely part of the world, a nice village to be part of and a nice community.”

He hopes to get funds for a refurbishment later this year and also hopes to increase the number of live band music events. The pub also currently also offers a quiz night every Wednesday evening. Its cheapest pint of beer costs £3.09 and the cheapest large glass of wine (250ml) is £3.95.

The Rising Sun, 74 Shore Road, Warsash, SO31 9FT