A pub in Surrey has become an internet sensation after its beer garden was hailed as the home of the 'best spectator sport ever', attracting visitors from across the country.
The Anchor pub in Wisley
The Anchor pub in Wisley, near Woking, has gone viral following an Instagram video showcasing the view from its beer garden. Patrons relaxing in the sunshine are treated to prime entertainment as they watch motorists attempt to navigate one of the narrow bridges spanning the River Wey.
The footage, posted by a duo named Al and Rob, captured a white van trying to cross the bridge without colliding with anything. The caption read: 'Do you wanna hang out at the pub and cheer people over the bridge? This should be the number one activity on TripAdvisor tbh. If you know, you know. Best spectator sport ever.'
Viral sensation
The video quickly amassed over 3,000 likes and 100 comments within days. Many responses came from locals who confirmed they love watching the bridge action, while others said they would consider traveling to Wisley just to witness the spectacle.
One viewer commented: 'That bridge is pure viewing entertainment.' Another added: 'I know this pub and this bridge! Fun as a spectator, terrifying as a driver.' A third wrote: 'Well, now I want to go here and do this!'
Location and attractions
The Anchor sits at Pyrford Lock in Wisley, tucked beside the Wey Navigation. It offers tranquil water views from nearly every angle, including a direct view of the narrow bridge that carries vehicles to the opposite bank. TripAdvisor reviews of Pyrford Lock frequently mention the bridge, with some warning drivers about the challenge and others urging visitors to watch the action.
One reviewer wrote in 2015: 'There is a very narrow bridge over the canal by Pyrford Lock, which some vehicles find difficult to negotiate. That is interesting to watch in itself.'
For those less interested in cars, the pub also offers views of boats navigating the locks, which many describe as an 'interesting experience'. One visitor shared: 'Pyrford Lock is a very pleasant place to come to walk and to enjoy the locks by the river Wey network. Watching the narrow boats go through the locks is always an experience for me.' Another added: 'Ideal place to watch the activity on the Wey, especially on a sunny day. Seeing the canal boats negotiate the lock is intriguing.'
