The Ship Inn
Step into a true piece of Exeter's past at The Ship Inn, a charming pub that's part of the Greene King chain and brewery. Nestled within a beautiful historic building, you'll immediately be struck by the character of its old,
exposed beams and traditional architecture. It's more than just a pub; it's a journey back in time.
During your visit, you can enjoy a fantastic selection of beverages, including refreshing pints of Hazy Days and classic Abbot Ale. The friendly and helpful team behind the bar are always on hand to ensure you have a
wonderful experience.
Beyond the main bar, you'll discover a delightful upstairs eating area, perfect for enjoying a meal in a cozy setting. The pub is full of inviting nooks and crannies, offering plenty of intimate spaces to relax and soak in the atmosphere. With its rich history and warm ambiance, The Ship Inn truly stands out as a genuine slice of Exeter history. Plus, with a good selection on tap, there's something to please every palate.
P&P
Background....
Ship Inn is one of Exeter's oldest and most cherished pubs, with a history dating back to the 15th century.
It is famously associated with Sir Francis Drake, who was rumored to be a regular. An inscription on the wall, supposedly penned by Drake in 1587, expresses his admiration for the pub. However, some historical sources
suggest this connection, and other stories about Drake meeting Sir Walter Raleigh and John Hawkins there to plan the attack on the Spanish Armada, may have been concocted in the 19th century by Thomas Burnett Worth, the owner of Mol's Coffee House, to boost tourism.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Drake connection, the Ship Inn does have documented ties to the English Civil War. Royalist Captain Benet billeted his troops there during the siege of Exeter, praising it for its "good wine, victual and forage." In 1719, the pub faced an unruly mob who attempted to burn it down, believing clergy allied with the Whig Government were sheltered inside, requiring soldiers to quell the uprising.
Martin's Lane, where the pub is located, was also known as Luxury Lane and Fyshe Street, and surprisingly, stagecoaches once traversed its narrow, cobbled surface towards Cathedral Close. In the 20th century, the wife of the landlord, Mr. W.E. Taylor, made local history in August 1920 by becoming the first Exeter lady to "loop-the-loop" in an aircraft.
The pub has undergone refurbishments, including one in 2015, which aimed to retain its original character with Tudor-inspired architectural design, a cream and black exterior, and plenty of wooden panelling and beams indoors.
