The Ship Inn, Winchelsea

Official site of The Ship Inn - www.shipwinchelseabeach.com

The Ship Inn was very busy when I visited on a recent Saturday afternoon, which surprised me because I wasn’t a fan of the disjointed diner like L shaped interior. The inclusion of the ‘Ship’s Store’ butcher and deli shop to the left detracted from any attempt to mimic a pub. There are two hand pumps, but one was unused leaving Harvey’s Best as the ale option. There is also a limited premium keg range, but most visitors were dining. On the bar were a selection of cakes. In the right rear is a further seating area and out the back is a surprisingly large split-level landscaped beer garden that was very busy. This area is certainly the major draw for this place, but don’t take your dog as they are not welcome. There is a small compact car park out the front which was a source of entertainment as I watched some inconsiderate pensioners try to navigate their way in and out. Opening times are from 08:00 until 17:00.