A stone’s throw from the bank of the River Thames in the posh end of Hammersmith, The Old Ship is a seasonal local pub well worth visiting.

The Venue
Right by the river in a prestigious residential area, The Old Ship has a big garden and an outside veranda - it looks like a white converted house covered in ivy. A big main bar on the ground level and an upstairs bar with a balcony are available for hire with a capacity of 200. Despite the bland decor, the prime location of this pub is the major pulling factor for punters. The Orangery restaurant downstairs is in a separate room to the main bar - a conservatory type room with windows fronting the marvellous views of the river. All major sporting games are shown on plasma screens and there is a games machine and sweet dispenser to have a go on.

Possibly the oldest pub in Hammersmith, it's one of the four pubs listed in the 1722 census. Although it was moved slightly to the west and rebuilt in the mid 1800s parts of the original building remain including the original Tudor red brick porch on the east side of the pub.

The Atmosphere
The Old Ship is trendy; however, it’s quite dependent on the season. It’s a great place to hang out with the family or friends for a Sunday roast. The pub is markedly busier over the summer season with locals and lots of Antipodeans and South Africans heading its way and with the option to enjoy a drink outside and soak up the beautiful views and sunbathe in a central location it's a definite hot spot. As a result, during the summer the staff always seem to be rushed off their feet and service is slow. The highlight of the year must be the boat race - a marquee is set up and portaloos are put up for the infamous Oxford and Cambridge boat race, to cope with the masses of drunken revellers that flood in.

During the winter is when the Old Ship really showcases what it's about however as the neverending crowds diminish somewhat allowing locals to spread out and relax of an evening. Sitting at nicely spaced apart tables enjoying some fine food and drink. The wood clad walls add to the seafaring effect without being too over the top.

The Food
The menu at The Old Ship is varied with simple pub grub from curries to poached salmon, burgers and roasts. The food is delicious and portions are healthy. Prices are relatively dear yet affordable. A main meal can cost up to £14. During the summer the barbecue on the terrace is particularly popular whilst in winter it's all about the Sunday roast.

The Drink
The bar has a massive choice of spirits - particularly vodka. There is a cocktail menu that makes a welcome change from pints although the pitchers of beer still tend to be the most popular choice especially on match days.

The Last Word
The Old Ship is a local pub with good grub and a homely atmosphere, that's rightfully popular all year round. However, it is its location and heritage that really make it stand out from the pack.

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