Along the banks of the River Hamble at Botley Mills in Hampshire, the Hidden Tap pub offers a unique service: bartenders lower drinks over the wall using a pulley system directly to customers on kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. The pub, attached to the Grade II Listed Botley Flour Mill from 1955, is owned by husband and wife Rob and Meg Sanderson and has been running since 2012. The Hidden Tap opened over seven years ago, right next door.
What's on Offer
The pub serves four casks of Botley Brewery's own beer, up to seven ciders from various suppliers, and guest ales. To order, punters ring a bell, and the order is lowered down in a box on a rope. Prices are notable: soft drinks cost £2, crisps and snacks £1.20, and beer, cider, and wine are £5 per glass or pint. Alcohol-free options are also available.
Location and Practical Tips
The River Hamble runs through the villages of Bishop's Waltham, Botley, and Hamble, crossing about 6.3 miles before entering Southampton Water. Visitors are advised to check high and low tide times, as one customer had to wait for the water level to rise to reach the bucket. The pub is open Tuesday-Thursday from 5-11pm, Friday-Saturday from 12-11pm, and 12-8pm on Sundays.
Nearby Attractions
Elsewhere in Hampshire, visitors can explore Winchester, the former capital of England, home to a Cathedral and The Great Hall, the only surviving part of Winchester Castle and home to King Arthur's legendary Round Table. Fans of Jane Austen can tour her house. For outdoor adventures, Calshot Activities Centre offers wall climbing, windsurfing, and sailing.
