A waterside pub found adjacent to a historic canal may just be Wiltshire’s best kept secret.
Nestled along the picturesque Kennet and Avon Canal, you’ll find The Boathouse located right on the water's edge.
The pub, which looks out onto the Bradford-On-Avon Marina, was bought in 2014 by Original Collection, a group of hotels and venues around the UK.
It was refurbished and re-opened in the same year but its history dates further back than that and is intertwined with the nearby marina.
“The pub was first built by the Griggs Family in the 1980s and was originally named The Gongoozler which is a term for a person who enjoys watching boats and activities on canals,” said Original Collection CMO Caroline Bestwick.
“It subsequently changed its name to Beef & Barge, which is what it was named when we purchased it back in 2014.
“We renamed it The Boathouse to tie in with its proximity to the marina and to give it a fresh, modern feel.”
The pub is a popular spot for boaters and walkers as well as the wider local community with live music and comedy on Friday and Saturday nights.
A function room can be found upstairs with a balcony overlooking the marina and the drinks roster includes local favourites too.
“We have a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients” added Catherine.
“There is a wide selection of drinks, including Stone Daisy, a local ale from Salisbury.
“For those looking to embrace the pub's canal-side location, there are variety of refreshing summer drinks that are perfect for sipping in the sun.”
If you are wanting to stay in the area but want the picturesque pub in walk distance then look no further than the onsite Wildbrook Grange hotel.
“Just over the road is the stunning Georgian Farmhouse offering 19 boutique bedrooms all decked out in interiors inspired by the Cotswolds countryside,” said Catherine.
“It feels more like bedding down at an old friend's country pile than staying in a hotel.”
The team prides themselves on being friendly and helpful with the vibe being shown through all of their work.
“Our friendly and attentive team work hard to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere to make every visitor feel like a regular,” said Catherine.
“Whether you're a local popping in for your usual or a traveller seeking recommendations, you'll find the service here top-notch.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel