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Southampton
The Old Ship

The Old Ship at Swanwick is a 17th-Century inn with great character, sitting on the banks of the River Hamble. Originally a farmhouse, The Old Ship retains plenty of old-world charm with its open fireplaces and dark wood panelling and beams. In winter there are roaring log fires to welcome visitors, whilst in summer diners can enjoy the sunshine on a pleasant waterside patio. Following an unfortunate fire three years ago, the spacious candlelit restaurant has been sympathetically rebuilt in keeping with the character of the original listed building, with high vaulted ceilings and nautical paraphernalia including ship’s lights, wheels and old photographs.

Simon Evans and his partner Sheila have been successfully running The Old Ship for 14 years, and welcome many regulars who enjoy the wide range of beers, ales, wines and spirits on offer. For those who are feeling hungry, the restaurant’s extensive menu of freshly cooked food uses high-quality ingredients sourced from local producers. You’ll find a mix of traditional and contemporary fare such as whitebait or chicken satay to start, followed by generously sized main courses. The succulent sirloin steak is cooked to perfection as is the moist, spicy Cajun chicken – both accompanied by crisp chips, vegetables and a salad garnish. An extensive dessert menu includes the ever-popular chocolate lumpy bumpy cake – a chocolate lover’s dream of rich chocolate sponge topped with cream, caramel, nuts and milk chocolate sauce – and speciality coffees and liqueurs are available for those with room left to indulge.

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