The Ship — Restaurant in England

As a resident of Portishead for 7 years who has read previous reviews and expected a cold reception at the ship, I walked in with friends with very low expectations. It’s rare in my life that I am so immediately and obviously wrong (hence feeling it appropriate to write a review). Vic, who has owned and bartended the Ship for a remarkable 55 years, was what can only be appreciated as a local legend. He gently rinsed me and my friends for our embarrassing attempt at bar billiards (which who knew is such a fun and engaging game!) while offering some good advice on how to actually record some points. The pub has a good of drinks selection and is priced like we’re still living in 1980. What an underrated gem for Portishead. I fear I’ve...

I don't normally bother writing bad reviews, but this this pub is in a class of its own. Grumpy landlord , altogether very unwelcoming. Freshly dead birds on the outside terrace; these had evidently collided with glass panels - not pleasant to see. Asked for a pint of cola only to be told that three bottles were the only option. This pub is so backward they don't even have cola on draft! Also asked for a coffee, which was met with a very surly response ("I'll have to put the kettle on"). The defibrillator was a nice touch though. Got the impression that under 70s not welcome here, which would explain the decor! Oh, and they don't accept any sort of cards, strictly...

Stopped by at 14:30pm today, perhaps a minute late. The pub closed at 14:30pm and the lady at bar seemingly happy not to bother serving another customer. Was told that, according to her clock, it was now 14:35pm and proceeded to walk away. Wasn't interested to know that we had made a special journey to the Ship. Plenty of open space and seating but only half-dozen tables in use. Perfect time to enjoy a drink outside in the sun but alas it wasn't to be. You can have too many customers on a late Sunday afternoon even when it's only 14:30pm and the pub is blessed with a large outside seating area. Will we...