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Monday 16 October 2023

The Gun Inn launches Christmas Party Menu

The Gun Inn have launched their Christmas Party Menu.

The menu has a host of festive treats, and you can choose between; 2 courses of £30, 3 courses for £40, or 4 courses for £50.

Bookings now being taken. Minimum party size of 4 guests.

Book before the 10th of November and receive 10% discount. £10 deposit per person.



The Gun Open Mic Night

The Open Mic Night is held Every Thursday.

No need to book, simply, go along to enjoy an evening of singing, playing or listening to singers and musicians. 

At the same time enjoy a beer, glass of wine, your favourite tipple, or a meal from the extensive menu using the best British seasonal produce.


History of The Gun Inn

We think there has been a dwelling on the site of the Gun Inn since the 1600’s, but the earliest tangible reference is from the Churchwardens accounts of 1783 when it is referred to as ‘The House at the sign of the Gun’. By 1790 it is simply named ‘The Gun’. Various other sources mention ‘The Pot House’ or ‘Ale House’, so we have assumed that rate payers at this property were in fact ‘Landlords’.

We have found reference to 27 landlords since 1783. Two were drowned at Keyhaven, five were named George, two were women and most served for two to three years. The longest serving was Arthur Payne (pictured below) from 1871 until his death in 1909, some 38 years. The most recent tenants, Paul and Jacquie Hill, come in a close second at 33 years service. 

Due to his fame in the world of Wild Fowling, it has often been said that ‘The Gun’ was named for Colonel Peter Hawker’s punt gun, but Hawker didn’t make his first visit to Keyhaven until 1814, some 24 years after the first records appear naming the building as ‘The Gun’. We think it is more likely that the sign post for Hurst Castle simply had a gun on it, and that sign stood in front of the building which now carries its name.

To read the History of The Gun Innplease click here.


The Gun Inn
Keyhaven Road, Keyhaven, SO41 0TP
01590 642391

Please check website for Opening Hours.

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