The Old Ship Aground, a cherished historic pub located on Somerset’s South West Coast Path, is poised for significant refurbishment, pending approval of new plans. A fixture on Quay Street in Minehead since the 1880s, this Grade II listed building is a key stop for walkers along the King Charles III England Coast Path.
Operated by Hall & Woodhouse, proposals include extensive updates to enhance both the pub’s appearance and functionality. Somerset Council is expected to decide by late summer whether the refurbishment can proceed.
Situated nearest to Minehead Harbour, the Old Ship Aground is the last pub along the coastal path until The Bottom Ship in Porlock Weir, nine miles away. The planned renovations will extend the cellar with new doors and timber cladding, remove an existing metal staircase, and install modern air conditioning units.
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Externally, the pub will be repainted in a subtle, muted color palette, with window frames and doors refurbished to complement the surrounding architecture. Internally, the ground floor’s pub and hotel layout will remain, but bathrooms will be updated with new tiling, lighting, panels, and flooring.
The bar areas will undergo a significant overhaul, including relocating beer mats from beams to the ceiling to refresh the interior aesthetic. Additional improvements include new flooring on the first and second floors, tiling upgrades in en-suite rooms, and the installation of acoustic underlay to enhance guest comfort.
Planning Potential, acting on behalf of Hall & Woodhouse, emphasized that the refurbishment aims to revitalize the pub, addressing wear and tear and improving customer experience, particularly in the hotel rooms. The upgrades are designed to increase visitor appeal and optimize revenue, while maintaining the pub’s distinctive character in harmony with the local environment.
Minehead Town Council expressed strong support for the investment, highlighting the significance of enhancing a town landmark located prominently at the harbour.
With the decision anticipated later this summer, the future looks bright for the Old Ship Aground as it prepares to continue welcoming visitors along Somerset’s scenic coastline.