With roots stretching back around 400 years, our pub has seen plenty of history. Once known as the Royal Ann, later the Royal George, and now The Ship, it’s stood through Farnborough’s journey from a rural crossroads to a town with proud aviation heritage.

On 17 April 1860, one of the most famous bare-knuckle boxing matches in history – Tom Sayers vs John C. Heenan – took place in the field behind the pub. Thousands gathered to watch the 42-round bout, which ended in a draw and put our little corner of the world on the map.

Local legend even claims the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin once stopped by. In years past, the building housed three separate bars; today it’s one welcoming space with two distinct areas – a main bar and a games bar with pool, two dartboards, and a games machine.

We (Kerri & Jamie) took over The Ship in July 2025 and are proud to be part of its story. Jamie’s passion for food and Kerri’s local touch have helped make it a proper community pub – lively, friendly, and full of character.

Whether you’re here for live music, the quiz night, a game of darts or pool, to catch the sport, or simply to enjoy a good meal and a drink, there’s always something going on – and always someone to chat to.

We love it here, and we hope you do too.

See you soon!