A pub in one of the UK’s most unusual locations has finally reopened its doors for the first time in almost two years.
The Ship Inn sits on Piel Island, a tiny dot of land off the Cumbrian coast that’s home to only three houses, an ancient 14th century castle, and a pub.
The 50-acre island is also prime seal-spotting territory, with colonies often seen swimming around the Furness Peninsula.
Read more: The pub on an island near Manchester where you can see seals and porpoises
Overnight stays on the island, which is around two hours from Manchester, are cheaper than a pint in the city centre too – you can pitch up a tent for just £5.
The pub has been closed since late 2019, when its previous publicans relinquished the tenancy.
It was feared that the venue might close for good, but new owners have stepped in to save the 300-year-old pub.
Now under the steer of the newly-formed Piel Island Pub Co and its director Kirsty Ridge, pints began to flow on the island again last month.
(Image: Dave Willis)
They plan to ‘restore the main heartbeat’ of the island, through local ales and pub food.
Kirsty said: “This project is certainly different compared to my other pubs, but it has been really exciting and a challenge we have all enjoyed.
“There’s been obstacles we have had to clear and there’s been a lot of hard work behind the scenes, but it’s all been made worthwhile when you see the reaction from locals and visitors who appreciate what we have done.
“The support from the public has been amazing and we’ve been really busy, and we’re grateful for such backing.
“The pub is a vital part of this unique and wonderful island, and we’re privileged to have played our role in getting it back up and running, much to the delight of our customers.”
The pub has been leased to the Piel Island Pub Co until September, by the island’s custodian Barrow Borough Council.
The island of Piel was gifted to Barrow-in-Furness as a memorial for those who died in the First World War.
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