The Old Ferry Boat – Historic Riverside PubDrinking and Dining on the River Great Ouse near St Ives

Discover The Old Ferry Boat, one of England’s oldest inns on the River Great Ouse near St Ives.

Enjoy traditional food, real ales, riverside views, and centuries of history.

A Riverside Treasure Steeped in History

• A Pub Beside the Peaceful Great Ouse
  Nestled on the banks of the River Great Ouse, just outside the historic market town of St Ives, stands The Old Ferry Boat Inn — one of England’s most atmospheric and ancient riverside pubs. With stunning waterside views, hearty food, and tales of centuries past, it’s a favourite stop for boaters, walkers, and history lovers alike.
• Where Heritage Meets Hospitality
  Combining traditional English charm with modern comfort, The Old Ferry Boat offers everything from riverside dining and local ales to cosy accommodation. It’s the kind of place where the past feels close — yet the welcome feels as warm as ever.
• The Fascinating History of The Old Ferry Boat
  England’s Oldest Inn – A Story Through the Centuries
  The Old Ferry Boat is reputed to be one of England’s oldest inns, with parts of the building dating back to circa 560 AD. For more than 1,400 years, travellers have rested, eaten, and found shelter here beside the River Great Ouse — long before the town of St Ives even existed.
• The Legend of Juliet Tewsley – The Resident Ghost
  Legend has it that the pub is haunted by Juliet Tewsley, a young woman who died for love on March 17th, 1050. Her grave lies beneath the bar, marked by a simple stone slab — and each year on the anniversary of her death, it’s said her ghost returns to the inn.
• A Place of Rest for Travellers and Boaters for Over 900 Years
  The inn’s name recalls the old ferry crossing that once linked both banks of the Great Ouse before bridges were built. Today, boaters and visitors continue to moor up here, just as travellers did for centuries, to enjoy good company and riverside comfort.

The River Great Ouse – Lifeline of Cambridgeshire

• A River of Trade, Travel, and Tranquilliser
  Flowing through the heart of East Anglia, the River Great Ouse has long been a major waterway for trade and travel. It winds past Bedford, St Neots, St Ives, and Ely, connecting historic towns and peaceful countryside alike.
• Boating Through the Fens and Historic Villages
  The river today is a boater’s paradise, offering serene stretches of navigation through ancient villages and Fenland landscapes. The section near St Ives is particularly picturesque, with easy moorings and charming pubs like The Old Ferry Boat along the way.
• Wildlife, Walks, and Waterway Wonders
  From kingfishers and swans to otters and herons, the Great Ouse teems with life. Walkers and cyclists can follow the Ouse Valley Way, a scenic path that passes right by the inn’s garden and continues through some of Cambridgeshire’s most peaceful scenery.
• Dining at The Old Ferry Boat
  Traditional English Pub Classics
  The Old Ferry Boat’s menu celebrates the best of classic British pub dining. Guests can enjoy dishes such as beer-battered fish and chips, handmade pies, burgers, and vegetarian options — all cooked to order and served with a smile.
• Local Ingredients and Seasonal Specials
  Ingredients are sourced from local Cambridgeshire suppliers wherever possible, ensuring freshness and supporting the surrounding community. Seasonal menus mean there’s always something new to try.
• Sunday Roasts and Riverside Views
  The pub’s Sunday roast has a loyal following — perfectly roasted meats, crisp Yorkshire puddings, and rich gravy enjoyed beside the rippling waters of the Ouse. Dining outdoors in summer is a treat, with tables overlooking moored boats and passing swans.
• Drinks, Atmosphere, and Historic Charm
  Ales, Ciders, and Wines Worth Savouring
  The Old Ferry Boat’s bar is stocked with an impressive selection of real ales, ciders, and fine wines. Visitors can enjoy local brews like Greene King IPA or Old Speckled Hen, or opt for a refreshing gin and tonic as the sun sets over the river.
• The Perfect Riverside Terrace for Summer Days
  In warmer months, the riverside terrace becomes the heart of the pub — where families, dog-walkers, and boaters sit back and enjoy the peaceful flow of the Great Ouse.
• Fireside Warmth for the Cooler Months
  In winter, the pub’s log fires and low-beamed ceilings create a cosy refuge from the cold. It’s a timeless setting for hearty meals and storytelling — perhaps even a ghost tale or two.
• Why Boaters Love The Old Ferry Boat
  Convenient Moorings on the River Great Ouse
  Boaters travelling between St Ives and Earith will find ample mooring space near the inn, making it an ideal stopover. The easy access to the pub means you can step straight from your boat to the bar.
• A Welcoming Stop for Cruisers and Narrowboats
  With its peaceful setting and full facilities, The Old Ferry Boat is a favourite among both leisure cruisers and narrowboat owners exploring the Great Ouse Navigation.
• Meeting Fellow Boaters and Travellers
  The pub has long been a gathering place for the river community — a spot to meet fellow travellers, share stories, and enjoy the timeless camaraderie that life on the water brings.

Exploring the Surroundings Near St Ives

• Historic Market Town of St Ives
  Just a short stroll from the inn lies St Ives, a charming market town known for its stone bridge with a 15th-century chapel, bustling markets, and riverside charm. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and shoppers alike.
• Nature Walks and Scenic Trails Along the Ouse
  The nearby RSPB Ouse Fen Nature Reserve and Houghton Mill offer wonderful walking and cycling routes, where you can enjoy wildlife and rural tranquillity at every turn.
• Perfect for Families, Walkers, and Cyclists
  The Old Ferry Boat is family- and dog-friendly, with outdoor space, scenic trails, and friendly staff who make everyone feel at home.
• Facilities: Wheelchair accessible, riverside garden, parking, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi, and accommodation available.
• Events, Accommodation, and Riverside Activities
  The pub hosts quiz nights, live music, and seasonal celebrations. Guests can also stay overnight in its comfortable riverside rooms, many with views of the Great Ouse.

FAQs About The Old Ferry Boat, St Ives

Q1. Where is The Old Ferry Boat located?
It’s situated in Holywell, near St Ives, Cambridgeshire, directly on the banks of the River Great Ouse.

Q2. Is it really one of the oldest pubs in England?
Yes, local tradition claims it dates back to 560 AD, making it one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the country.

Q3. Can I moor my boat nearby?
Yes, there are public moorings right by the pub for easy access from the river.

Q4. Is the pub dog and family friendly?
Absolutely — both dogs and children are welcome, especially in the garden and outdoor seating areas.

Q5. Does the inn offer accommodation?
Yes, The Old Ferry Boat offers comfortable en-suite rooms, ideal for overnight stays beside the river.

Q6. What makes this pub special?
Its extraordinary history, riverside setting, and warm hospitality make The Old Ferry Boat a truly unforgettable destination.

Conclusion – The Old Ferry Boat: History, Hospitality, and the Heart of the River Great Ouse

The Old Ferry Boat on the River Great Ouse near St Ives is more than just a pub — it’s a living piece of English history. With its ancient charm, peaceful riverside views, and welcoming atmosphere, it continues to delight visitors just as it has for over a thousand years.

Whether you come for the food, the folklore, or simply to enjoy a pint by the water, The Old Ferry Boat invites you to slow down, soak up the scenery, and experience one of England’s most iconic riverside inns.