THIS stunning pub near Marwell Zoo dates from the reign of Henry VIII and has its own kitchen garden overlooking the South Downs.

The Ship Inn at Owslebury also boasts one of the best gardens around as well as an impressive menu specialising in fresh, seasonal organic food.

General manager Devon-Marie Allen, who has been at the pub since November 2019, told the Daily Echo: "Our beer garden is our crowning jewel - boasting over 40 tables, a children’s play area, kitchen garden, as well as a horse paddock, fish pond and petanque pitch and outside kitchen and bar - all with views over the South Downs.

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"We specialise in fresh, seasonal food, grown in our own kitchen garden that visitors are welcome to explore."

On the menu, you'll find pub classics like homemade pies and burgers, as well as inventive and exciting chef recommendations like braised beef feather blade, beetroot risotto and hake, crayfish and sweet potato cake.

Daily Echo:

The Ship Inn was built in 1681 using timbers from an old sailing vessel, hence the name! These beams can still be seen in the old bar today.

It is one of the oldest buildings in the area and it is believed that the King’s messengers would stay there on route to Marwell Hall during the reign of Henry XIII.

Daily Echo:

A destination for lunch or dinner before or after a visit to the zoo or activity centre five minutes drive away, The Ship Inn is also popular with locals.

The most recent event was a wine tasting quiz and there's a firework display set for November 6. Harvest days are always a favourite, last year’s pumpkins in particular were so large it took three people to move them.

Daily Echo:

Devon added: "Covid has been a major obstacle for us, as it was for everyone, along with the shortage of staff. We feel we have really turned a corner now though and look forward to welcoming more people and holding more events.

"The best thing about running a pub will always be the people. Every day you get to meet new people and hear new stories, and send them on their way with a full belly and a smile!

  • The Ship Inn is our pub of the week. If you'd like us to feature your watering hole, click on the link below or email lorelei.reddin@dailyecho.co.uk