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Business Details
Welcome to The Old Ship, Lower Swanwick's Historic Pub
Established in the 16th century, The Old Ship stands as a Grade II listed pub in Lower Swanwick, blending historic charm with modern hospitality. Our menu showcases traditional pub favourites and seasonal specials, crafted using locally sourced ingredients including fresh fish, artisan bread, and meats from trusted local butchers. The pub features a real fire, dog-friendly areas, and a private function room accommodating up to 60 guests, making it ideal for both casual visits and special occasions.

Located near Swanwick Marina, we offer easy access from Southampton and Fareham, with a commitment to preserving our heritage while providing a welcoming atmosphere for families and visitors exploring the River Hamble and surrounding natural beauty.
Services
Dining Drinks Function Rooms Garden Local Attractions
Highlights and features
  • Grade II listed building preserving 16th-century architecture
  • Menus feature locally sourced fish, meat, and artisan bread
  • Private function rooms for events up to 60 guests
  • Dog-friendly garden and accessible location near marina
  • Award-winning real ales and craft beers on tap
Services
Dining
Our dining experience combines traditional pub fare with seasonal specials crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Menus feature fresh fish caught along the coast, meats from trusted local butchers, and bread delivered daily by the village baker. The restaurant accommodates both casual meals and private events, with a particular highlight on Sunday roasts served with classic trimmings.
Drinks
The bar offers an extensive selection of real ales, modern craft beers, and cask classics in a historic setting. Regular patrons appreciate our rotating seasonal brews and carefully maintained cellar. The pub's atmosphere combines original 16th-century features with contemporary comforts for an authentic drinking experience.
Function Rooms
Private event spaces cater to gatherings of 15-60 guests, featuring dedicated areas for celebrations and meetings. The function rooms maintain the pub's historic character while providing modern amenities. Ideal for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events with full catering support from our kitchen team.
Garden
The pub's garden provides a dog-friendly space with seating for enjoying drinks and light meals in good weather. Surrounded by historic architecture, the outdoor area features landscaped grounds and seasonal decorations. Regular visitors appreciate the peaceful setting away from the main bar area.
Local Attractions
Situated in Swanwick's conservation area, we offer guidance on nearby points of interest including Swanwick Marina, River Hamble walks, and Holy Hill Park. The pub serves as a convenient starting point for exploring Bursledon Brickworks Museum and Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve, with maps and recommendations available.
Questions
What are The Old Ship Inn's opening hours?
We're open daily from 12:00-22:00 (until 23:00 Friday/Saturday). Food service times vary - check our website for full details.
Can I book a private event at The Old Ship Inn?
Yes, we offer function room hire for groups of 15-60 guests. Contact us directly to discuss your event requirements.
Does The Old Ship Inn serve food?
Yes, we serve traditional British cuisine daily using locally sourced ingredients. Our menu includes light bites, hearty mains, and Sunday roasts.
Is The Old Ship Inn dog-friendly?
Yes, we welcome well-behaved dogs in designated areas of the pub and garden. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the premises.
Where is The Old Ship Inn located?
We're at 261 Bridge Road, Lower Swanwick, Hampshire SO31 7FN, midway between Southampton and Fareham near Swanwick Marina.
Does The Old Ship Inn have parking facilities?
Yes, we offer free car parking for guests on our premises. The pub is also accessible by train with Bursledon station a 10-minute walk away.
Reviews (4)
Ashley Helm
Jan 30, 2022 Report
Lovely environment, I am 6ft 4 and had some issues getting round. It is not a place designed for anyone that is taller! The cake I had was delicious!
Sue Bailey
Jan 18, 2022 Report
Really nice, well cooked, meal. Lovely old building. No noisy music but lovely staff who dont keep bothering you. We will return.
Lou Hillier
Jan 15, 2022 Report
Lovely hearty food, good portions for the money & always friendly staff & good wait times. Pleasant atmosphere the open fire is wonderful.
Alex Brander
Jan 10, 2022 Report
Went here Monday just gone and we thought wed go somewhere different and a little change of scenery and we were very impressed with the quality of the food here and the portions are really decent as well. Everything was all up to standard. My misses pointed out to the waitress/bartender just as we asked for the bill to say how amazing the food was. We will come back again