The Ship at Cockwood, Exeter

I got the chance to visit Cockwood a couple of weeks ago and found myself at the Ship. Five hand pulls at the bar, one of which was off, others were St Austell Tribute, Proper Job, Dartmoor Jail Ale, and Black Sheep. Inside there is a small bar area, then separate sections around the pub at different levels. Outside there are tables to the front and a split level beer garden to the right hand side. Amusingly there were two old codgers on one of the tables outside who took great delight in telling everyone they were deaf, despite talking at what seemed like a normal volume. Nice pub in a nice setting, especially when you get the weather.

The ‘other’ Cockwood pub, situated a few yards behind right of the Anchor. A more down-to-earth pub than its neighbour but still offers food (they’d be mad not to in this location) with the offerings more pub-grub and wallet-friendly. Bar to right on entry, a lounge/dining room to left with an inglenook (stove) and a further area to the pub’s rear, divided by an internal wood division. Brown painted wood panelling, carpet, some exposed stone walls, hung art (for sale) and a mix of chairs, pews and settles. Perhaps feels slightly dated feel in places but is certainly clean and tidy. Dog friendly and wifi. There’s a nicely flora’d elevated beer garden to the right side which affords a bit of a view across the harbour. Five ales; Bays Topsail (very good), Exmoor Ale, St Austell Proper Job & Tribute, Dartmoor Jail Ale. Old Rosie cider also on. Friendly service and were made to feel welcome. Ate here and no complaints with the food, went down a treat. Whilst the historic Anchor is the one that’ll get the plaudits, I’d say it’s well-worth popping in here as well. As a double-header, Cockwood is a must-visit and demands an afternoon.