Beer to flow again at Marshwood’s 16th century Bottle Inn

Marshwood’s world-famous Bottle Inn is set to reopen within weeks.

Work to refurbish the 16th century inn has restarted and there are plans to host the world stinging nettle eating championships there again this summer.

Licensees George Thomas and Nigel Blake have decided to push on with renovations which were halted last year owing to longstanding contractual disputes with the freeholders.

They told The Herald: “To obtain public liability insurance we have had a ‘thatch patch’ completed, including new porch, and are generally tidying up outside whilst moving on with the interior.

“The intention is to open just the bars initially with the kitchens opening, probably during August.

“Our trading theme will be that of a traditional ale house with country dining.

“We will be wellyboot and dog-friendly, offer a great selection of cask ales, traditional British cuisine with a twist, complemented by an international mix of dishes.

There will also be a traditional all day Sunday carvery.”

Plans are also under way to stage the world stinging nettle eating championships which were first launched at The Bottle 26 years ago.

Discussions have already taken place with the various aficionados, including the current undisputed world champion Simon Sleigh who attended a recent meeting with other nettle bashers at the Bottle to start the ball rolling with plans for this year’s competition to be held on July 21.

“The Bottle Inn is the only official home of the world nettle eating championship and other similar events being staged locally have absolutely no affiliation to the internationally-recognised event held at the Bottle Inn,” stressed the new licensees.

For further information contact The Bottle on 01297 678484.

* A rival stinging nettle eating championship has been planned as one of the Lyme Lympic events at Lyme Regis in August.