Overlooking the Great Ouse river, The Old Ferry Boat is reputedly England’s oldest inn. Located in the hamlet of Holywell, the thatched roof and white stonework have remained for many years, while modern furnishings and contemporary comforts create a hom
Though there is no definitive proof, The Old Ferryboat Inn positioned on the river Cam makes the most ambitious claim as Britain’s oldest watering hole. The pub’s owners claim that alcohol has been sold on the premises as early as 560AD, but a more reliable estimate is a foundation date on the site which places it at 1400AD. The pub is said to be home to a supernatural presence with the ghost of a jilted teenage girl, Juliet, who hanged herself. She was buried in 1050AD on the banks of the Ouse at the ferry crossing point, with the Old Ferry Boat later built on top of her grave. A seance was conducted in the 1950s with participants claiming to have contacted the spirit of the young girl who is said to still haunt the building.
This has been a spot for hungry travellers to stop at for years, so why not join them and dine on the finest English fare.
This charming inn can also host your traditional English wedding reception, with various packages to suit every need make sure you contact us to see how we can help to make your day extra special.
The Old Ferry Boat can also host your business meetings for up to 40 people, including free Wi-Fi, so escape the hustle and bustle of the city and hold a meeting with a difference.
Food served 11am – 10pm every day
This hotel is dog friendly in all areas as long as kept on a lead.
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We held a village dinner here last week for 34 people and it went extremely well and was much enjoyed. The new landlady Julie did us proud. The food was excellent as was the service and the pub was very clean and tidy.
Had a great lunch on a Monday! Even did a bit of fly fishing and caught a fish as long as my arm? Just up the road is the Holywell church and you can even see the Holywell in the church yard.
The food here was delicious. We didn’t have a reservation but they still managed to squeeze us in inside. The service was a little on the slow side but it was quite busy. Dessert options were also incredible. Highly recommend.
This is one of the top 10 oldest pubs in the UK. A Greenie King owned and operated, the Ales were of excellent quality and good condition. The minimal staff were under a lot of pressure on the day of my visit (Sunday) but they were still friendly, helpful and served with a smile, even though they all looked exhausted. The rooms were clean and warm. The food was hot and tasty pub fare. There is plenty of seating inside and a large beer garden with plenty of sunshine in the Summer. Thank you to the staff for all of their efforts.
DO NOT RECOMMEND! We went on Thursday at 1pm. Not really that busy and we had to wait over an hour for nibbles ( Camembert, chips and halloumi fries) ! The Camembert didn’t look anything like the photos posted on their Facebook page. The second photo is what we got!!!
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Food Times
| Mon | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Tue | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Wed | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Thur | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Fri | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Sat | 11:00 – 22:00 |
| Sun | 11:00 – 22:00 |
Needingworth, St. Ives, PE27 
