The Old Ship Aground, an iconic pub located along the South West Coast Path in Minehead, Somerset, is set to undergo significant refurbishment pending approval of fresh plans. This historic venue has been a prominent feature of Quay Street since the 1880s and is operated by Hall & Woodhouse.
Proposed renovations aim to enhance both the building’s appearance and its operational functionality. The pub, a grade two listed structure closest to Minehead Harbour, serves as a key stop for walkers before they tackle the nine-mile stretch to The Bottom Ship in Porlock Weir.
The refurbishment plans include extending the existing cellar with new doors and timber cladding, removing a metal staircase, and installing modern air conditioning units. Externally, the pub will be repainted in a subtler, muted color palette, with improvements to windows and door refurbishments.
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Inside, the ground floor layout will remain intact, but bathrooms will receive updated tiling and lighting, alongside new floor panels throughout the rooms. The bar areas will see a transformation with the removal of beer mats from beams and their relocation to the ceiling. New flooring will be added to the first and second floors, complemented by tiling upgrades in en-suite rooms and the installation of acoustic underlay to enhance guest comfort.
A spokesperson for Planning Potential, representing Hall & Woodhouse, emphasized that the renovations are essential to revitalize the pub’s character, improve its functionality, and address wear to elements like window frames and ceilings. Upgrading the hotel rooms will boost visitor satisfaction and help optimize revenue by attracting more guests.
The selected paint colors are designed to preserve the pub’s unique identity while harmonizing with the surrounding architecture and environment. Expanding the cellar is also intended to improve operational efficiency and boost profits.
The proposals have received support from Minehead Town Council, which welcomed the substantial investment in such a prominent harbor-side establishment. Somerset Council is expected to reach a decision on the refurbishment plans by late summer.