Christmas Gift Ideas in the Village

Christmas is a great time to support our village shops, so here are a few ideas for presents and more that you can get from our village traders here in Milford on Sea.

There is far too much in the village to list everything, but below should give you a nice flavour of what is available - but nothing beats a wander around the shops, you never know what you might find!

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Gift Vouchers: Ask your favourite shops, pub, bar or restaurant in the village about their Gift Vouchers and share the love with family & friends.

Just a few examples of Gift Vouchers - ask your favourite place about theirs.

Gifts at The Cave

Christmas Drinks

The Cave have a magnificent selection of gift boxes, presentation packs, excellent wine, Port, gin and enough different beverages to make sure that there is a little something for everyone to enjoy.  

The Wash House has bottled ciders, fruity & cocktail ciders, and of course real ales & craft beers to make up a nice taster pack or a pick a selection of someone's favourite tipple as a personalised gift. 

Verveine Rum Liquor

Verveine Rum Liquor

David Wykes at Verveine has created two unique clear rums, Verveine Spiced Christmas Pudding Rum Liquor and Cocoa Nib & Coffee Rum Liquor. Both are available from the restaurant.

Gifts for the Home 

The Old Smithy and No.64 Biscuit House have lots of stylish gifts to brighten anyone's home.

Cakes for Christmas

Order a fabulous cake for Christmas, or small baked treats, made by cake makers in Milford on Sea, please click here. The Coastal Bakery is also full of in-house baked & delicious temptation!

Chocolate Boxes and Christmas Biscuit Tins

The Village News can provide all the excellent quality boxes of chocolates and other sweet treats for Christmas. They can also fulfil special orders from their other shop, Truffles of Lymington.

Warmies & Bug Art Mugs

Warmies & Bug Mugs
Warmies are a snuggable, huggable, lovable gift that keeps on giving. Pop it in the microwave for a warm sweet smelling hug. Bug Art Mugs are made in fine china with the distinctive Kooks design by Bug Art. Stationary and cards also available in the same range. All are available from The Village News.

Fresh Flowers

Perfect as a present, or for that special decoration. All bouquets and fresh flower table decorations are expertly hand-made by Nicola at New Seasons.

Ray's Italian Hamper

Hampers

Ray's Italian Kitchen have a yummy selection of sweet and savoury treats to create your perfect gift hamper full of Italian specialities. They also have a selection of special liqueurs, Panettone cake, festive wine, and many more Italian delights.

Perhaps even make up your own hamper with some of the Christmas themed ranges in Holland's and the Co-op.

If you are feeling like giving something healthy, making up a fruit basket from the Village Veg could be the answer.

Verveine Cook Book

Verveine Cook Book

Verveine have the hard-backed Verveine Cook Book written by David Wykes. This beautiful book would grace any kitchen or coffee table. 

Verveine Spice Tin Collection

There is also a range of eight Bespoke Spice Tins with blended spices and seasonings by David Wykes.

Homemade Medlar Jelly

Available from Braxton Gardens & Tea Rooms and made from their own medlar tree.

Pamper Days

Everyone loves to be pampered, how about a voucher for a beauty treatment or massage from The Retreat Beauty Salon.

Drying coat

Pamper for Pets

Paddy's Pool have a extensive range of dog toys, pet treats and drying coats, and Doggy Fashions can get your furry friend looking their best for Christmas.

Hair & Beauty

Perhaps some new nails from Neat and Gorgeous would be appreciated, or they, or Pollyanna could provide a festive hair styling. 

For the men, a sharp haircut or shave at Fuel Hair Mechanics could be an ideal gift. As could a haircut or trim at Sears our traditional gentlemen’s barber shop.

Sassy's shop window

Ladies Fashions

Sassy's and Moss on the Green can offer ladies fashions, dresses, bags, hats and scarves. All great presents for the stylish wardrobe.

Leisurewear

Online range of retro, playful & sustainable leisurewear designed in Milford on Sea by Duff-T Tees. The range has items for women, men and kids and is always 'planet loving'. 

Craft

For those handy people in your life, Timeless Fabrics has patterns, fabrics, kits and gifts for enthusiastic, or starter, dress or home fabrics makers.

Pottery Course

Treat someone special to a one to a one day pottery course with talented local potter, Dave Rogers at Vinegar Hill Pottery in the village.

Original Art

Art

Original modern art paintings, landscape and seascape scenes, or small quirky art gifts from Strawberry Gallery will bring life and colour to any home. Hurst Marine Shop has a range of prints, original water colours and cards created by local artists.

Antiques & Collectables

New Forest Emporium a large array of antiques, vintage & collectables, plus a Christmas gift & decoration range. Cafe on site and dogs welcome.

Tickets to a Show

If you would love to give any of your friends or family a great night out, it is definitely worth looking at buying tickets for the shows coming up at The Bridge and Milford on Sea Club.

Christmas Paper & Cards

Christmas Cards and Wrapping Paper

The Village News and Milford Cards & Gifts have a great selection or traditional, humorous and charity Christmas cards. Plus rolls of wrapping paper, tags, bows and gift bags.

Children's Stocking Fillers

Milford Cards & Gifts have vast array of toys and games to keep the kids happy this Christmas.

Bargains & Pre-Loved

You never know what you might find that someone would love in any of the Village Charity Shops!

Mobile Car Valet

Do you know someone who loves their car? Then, they are likely to appreciate a mobile car valet from Milford Valeting.

Sumptuous Roast Turkey

Turkey & the Trimmings

Butchers on the Green are great for your Christmas meat and freshly made ready meals, The Village Veg can provide all of your fruit & vegetables, Hollands and the Co-op have just about everything else you may need - who needs the big supermarkets?!

Take a Break

As you wander around the village shops, the cafe's, pubs and restaurants are the perfect places to take a break, see what you have bought, and to consider what you are going to buy next! 

To decide where to eat whilst you are Christmas shopping, please click here - or grab a takeaway when you get home! Choose here.

If I have missed anyone, I'm sure you can discover what they have to offer with a wander around the village shops. Happy Christmas shopping!

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Over £40,000 raised in memory of Louise

Following the tragic loss of Louise Walsh, founder of the Big Learner Relay, in August this year, the charity she founded took the decision that there would be no relay, grand finale, or party in 2023. 

However, local groups of driving instructors across the UK have independently continued fundraising in Louise's memory and to date have raised over £40,000 for the BBC's Children in Need charity.

Louise was a multi-talented and much loved Milford on Sea mum, wife to Blaine, and an extraordinary fundraiser. She was also a qualified driving instructor, midwife, lifeguard and swimming instructor as well as an impressive organiser and events planner. 

She even learnt British Sign Language enabling her to communicate with her deaf & hearing impaired driving school pupils.

Having come up with the idea to harness her knowledge of the driving school industry and its people in 2013, The Big Learner Relay has raised a massively impressive £500,000 and more for the BBC Children in Need charity over the past decade.

This year, without official national events, driving instructors across the country have already independently raised over £40,000 in memory of Louise and for the BBC's Children in Need.

The continued fundraising efforts of many of the Big Learner Relay team just goes to show how much Louise was loved and respected across the UK.

To read 18 pages of tributes to Louise from people at the Big Learner Relay, please click here.

To read our previous article about Louise, please click here.

To read the recent A&T article by Roz Waters, please click here.

The Big Learner Relay

www.biglearnerrelay.co.uk

Car Park Community Christmas Carol Singing on Sunday

If you enjoy singing carols then pop along to All Saints’ Church Hall Car Park 6pm on Sunday 10th December to take part in the outdoor Community Christmas Carol Singing. 

The event is suitable for all ages to come and sing along together, and it is being kept to a short 30 minutes so that people don’t get too cold. There will even be fire pits to help stay warm.

The carol singing is followed by mulled wine & mince pies, or hot chocolate & gingerbread biscuits in the warm.

Everyone is welcome to come along to enjoy the evening. Bring you festive voices!

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All Saints' Church & Church Hall
Greenbanks Close, Milford on Sea, SO41 0SQ
01590 644992
office.allsaintsmilford.org.uk
www.allsaintsmilford.org.uk
www.facebook.com/AllSaintsMilfordOnSea

Child Eats Free on Tuesday 12th December at Ray's Italian

Due to a large cancellation, Ray's Italian Kitchen are having a Child Eats Free Offer on Tuesday 12th December 2023.

This midweek treat is available on a first come, first served basis.

Child Eats Free Offer - Tuesday 12th December Only.

Children choose dinner from the Ray's Italian Kitchen's Kids Menu. (Usually priced at 2 courses for £9.95, or 3 courses for £12.95).

Each child must be accompanied by one full paying adult eating at least 2 courses from the A La Carte or Christmas Menu.

To see Kids Menu, please click here.

To see All Menus, please click here.

Tables are available at 5.30pm/5.45pm and would need to be vacated by 7.15pm.

Please call 01590 645300 to book quoting the Child Eats Free Offer.

Ray’s Italian Kitchen

11 High Street, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QF

01590 645300

info@raysitaliankitchen.co.uk

www.raysitaliankitchen.co.uk

www.facebook.com/raysitaliankitchen

Wine Tastings at The Cave in a few days time

The Cave have a number of Wine Tasting Evenings coming up very soon, each is ideal for choosing your favourite drinks for Christmas, or just a great excuse to try some new wines! 

One of the wine tastings is even free!

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Wine Tasting Evening: 'Sparkling and more'

Monday 11th December 2023

Taste seven very different and delicious wines, including champagne! To see the wines to be tasted on the night, please click here. 

Canapés will be served with the Sparkling Wines and accomplishments with the Dessert Wines. 

The evening will start at 7pm and will be hosted by James Wilson from Wine Merchant Hatch Mansfield. 

Tickets: £30pp. Limited numbers available, so booking is essential.

To book: Contact 01590 642195, or email

info@thecavemos.co.uk, or call into The Cave.

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Wine Tasting Evening: ‘Wines to go with your Christmas Day Lunch’

Wednesday 13th December 2023 at 7pm

Come and taste 6 wines, including 1x sparkling wine, 2x white wines, 2x red wines and a dessert wine. Each wine. Each will be served with a suitable food canapé. 

The evening starts at 7pm, and is hosted by Martin Jenning from Wine Merchant Hallgarten & Novum Wines. 

Tickets: £25pp. Limited numbers available, so booking is essential.

To book: Contact 01590 642195, or email info@thecavemos.co.uk, or call into The Cave.

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FREE Italian Wine Tasting

Saturday 16th December 2023: 12.30pm to 3pm

Come along and enjoy a free Italian wine tasting, compliments of Wine Merchant Zonin 1821 and hosted by Luigi Domeneghetti.

There will be Sparkling, White, Rosé & Red wines available to taste. 

The tasting takes place is will take place in the The Cave's shop from 12.30pm until 3pm. 

No Bookings required.

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New Year's Eve - DJ Paul Stoner

Sunday 31st December from 8.30pm

Paul has performed at The Cave on a couple of NYE’s and has gone down very well, hence why he is returning to take The Cave into 2024. 

Paul will take everyone through the decades, starting from the 60’s to the modern era.

Free Entry - No Bookings required.

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Coming Music Events:

• Wednesday 6th December 2023: Luke Adams (St Luna)
• Wednesday 20th December 2023: Phil Holbird
• New Year's Eve - Sunday 31st December 2023 from 8.30pm: DJ Paul Stoner

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The Cave

2 Church Hill, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QH

01590 642195

info@thecavemos.co.uk

www.facebook.com/TheCavewinebar

www.thecavemos.co.uk

Ray's Italian Celebrates 5th Birthday

Ray's Italian Kitchen celebrated their 5th anniversary today, having opened on the 5th December 2018.

As with any new business, the road to success is peppered with a story of ups and the pandemic downs before becoming the establish and respected quality restaurant and delicatessen it is today.

Stacey has sent the message below to thank all of her customers and supporters over the past five years.

Message from Stacey Crouch

Celebrating 5 Years of Ray's Italian Kitchen opening on the 5th December 2018 - Anyone eating with us on out birthday today will receive a free glass of fizz on us to say thank you.

As I write this to thank all of our lovely loyal local customers and those of you who are visiting or passing through, I find a quote in my head from the lovely Tom Hanks in Forest Gump… 'Life is like a box of chocolates you just don’t know what your gonna get.’

Well you can say that again!

We were off to a flying start in 2018. It was rallying of the troops, and with very dear friends and colleagues (you know who you are and you also know I am eternally grateful!) we set to work and opened the doors early December.

It was a fantastic success, the momentum kept going from the off, right until the carpet was pulled from under us in late March 2019, as we entered a global pandemic.

A dear friend suggested that we try crowdfunding and we ended up with a whopping total close to £10h - it really did really help. I felt and feel blessed to be in Milford on Sea with of such a wonderful community. A massive thank you to all who pledged…

It was a very humbling time. I had help from my besties (you know who you are and I love you). Plus my partner Paul - Thank you for your unconditional support. Not forgetting my mum who baked the most lovely puddings - Thank you Mum X.

As a nation we slowly came out of lockdown, it was a little stop start to begin but we have been gradually building the business back up since.

Joining the team:

Karl - Head Chef. Is fantastic at his craft. With his experience and knowledge we have been able to take the food to the next level.

Regula - Assistant Manager. Has brought a certain calm to my team, she is professional in all aspects and has been welcome breath of fresh air.

My whole team have been so supportive and fully committed to the success of Ray’s - Thank you to you all!

This year has seen Ray’s Italian Kitchen go from strength to strength, there has been a great momentum to the year which is wonderful and long may it continue.

My commitment and passion are still strong, I look forward to the next 5 years and thank you all for your continued support.

Warmest Regards

Stacey

Ray’s Italian Kitchen

11 High Street, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QF

01590 645300

info@raysitaliankitchen.co.uk
www.raysitaliankitchen.co.uk
www.facebook.com/raysitaliankitchen

A magical start to Christmas in Milford on Sea

A very special night took place in Milford on Sea village on Friday 1st December 2023 as hundreds of local people arrived to see the Christmas Lights Switch On and to enjoy the singing at Carols on the Green.

Photo by Jean Maye

The kids also enjoyed meeting Father Christmas in Santa’s Grotto, which had been set up in The Retreat thanks to the generosity of Lola. 

The adults had a great choice of special food and drinks for the evening available at various village eateries and pubs, and many of the village shops has stayed open to provide the opportunity for Late Night Shop Opening.

A particular highlight of the evening was the Milford Primary School Choir singing Christmas songs. The children's choir video below was captured by Milford Mobile Valeting.

Our local contemporary choir, Total Voice then joined the children to sing a number of carols.

To watch Milford Primary School Choir singing
Walking in a winter wonderland
please click here.

A number of the colourful Christmas characters on the village green were designed and painted by talented village artist, Gillian Key.

The village shops also look great with Christmas trees lit up above their premises resplendent in the new holders which had been installed by main sponsor, Milford on Sea based Nixor Build. 

Many local people, and village businesses, donated or sponsored Magical Milford, and thanks to them all we have delightful decorations to enjoy throughout the festive period.

Once again the village Christmas decorations are a triumph!

To see the Magical Milford 2023 Photo Album, please click here. 

You can keep in touch with all that is happening with Magical Milford on their Facebook Page at: www.facebook.com/MagicalMilford

Congratulations go to the Magical Milford at Christmas team led by Tracy Haupt and Diana Brushwood. The efforts and physical & financial support of all the volunteer individuals, local businesses and village organisations is greatly appreciated.

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Magical Milford at Christmas

magicalmilford@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/MagicalMilford

Win a Free Night's Stay for a good cause at The Beach House

The Beach House are holding a Christmas Charity Raffle for a very special cause.

The prize is a Free Night Stay including an All You Can Eat Breakfast, plus other fun prizes.

To enter, simply go into The Beach House to buy your raffle tickets and to raise some money for a special cause. 

As The Beach House team explain: "Some of you may have had the pleasure to meet Hannah, our lovely team member and friend. Unfortunately Hannah has been off recently while battling cancer, and even though she’s fighting her own battles she’s still helping others fight theirs. This is why we want to raise money for Hannah’s charity to show our love and support." 

To find out more about Hannah, her journey and her fundraising for Cancer Research UK please click here.

PS: Raffle Tickets can only be purchased by visiting the Beach House. T&Cs apply.

The Beach House

Park Lane, Milford on Sea, SO41 0PT

01590 643044
www.beachhousemilfordonsea.co.uk
www.facebook.com/thebeachhousehw

Black Swans at Sturt Pond

If you were out walking on Friday 24th November 2023 you may have had the wonderful experience of seeing seven Black Swans.

These rare swans were by the Crabbing Bridge at Sturt Pond and we are lucky that Gill Anderson managed to get this great photograph.

Nature is simply amazing in Milford on Sea.

Photo by Gill Anderson

British Trust for Ornithology: The Black Swan

Striking large black waterbird that occasionally escapes from captivity and which now breeds regularly in the wild.

This popular ornamental species, introduced from Australia, is occasionally encountered in the wild, mostly as single individuals but sometimes in small groups. The species favours rivers and freshwater lakes.

Males are slightly larger than females but otherwise the sexes are similar, with the predominantly black plumage contrastingly strongly with a striking red bill and white flight feathers. The Rare Breeding Birds Panel regularly receives double-figure records of breeding attempts from across the UK, and there is an established breeding population in east Norfolk, centred on the Broads. The species is native to Australia.

www.bto.org

Unique Christmas Gifts from Verveine - including Bespoke Rum

Verveine have a range of original and unique gifts for this Christmas, all perfect presents for the foodies in your life and created by chef/patron, David Wykes.

Verveine Spice Tin Blends

Spices & Seasonings blended by David Wykes

To add to the existing range, there are two new editions to the Verveine Spice and Seasoning Collection, Marine Salt and Merchants Pepper. Inspired by a love of sea and the exotic ingredients it’s brings to our shores these seasonings work perfectly with fish and shellfish, an essential edition to any food lovers pantry.

Available to buy online or from the restaurant. Please click here to view range.

Spiced Christmas Pudding Rum Liquor

Bottled Verveine original clear rum and ready to give your Christmas celebrations some extra spice. And yes it really does taste like Christmas pudding!

Cocoa Nib & Coffee Rum Liquor

Original Verveine clear cocoa nib and coffee rum liquor bottled and ready to give your Christmas celebrations a kick. Perfect present for any coffee lovers out there.

Both available to buy from the restaurant (Collection only.)

The Verveine Cook Book

Author David Wykes, Verveine Chef/Patron. 

This beautiful hard-backed book would grace any kitchen or coffee table with its exceptional recipes and spectacular photography.

Gift Vouchers. Available in the restaurant or on the website now.

Christmas Lunch Tasting Menu, 

If you would like to enjoy a festive dining experience on lunchtimes between Wednesday 6th December until Saturday 23rd of December 2023, please click here to see the menu.

Verveine
98 High Street, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QE
01590 642176

info@verveine.co.uk
www.verveine.co.uk

www.facebook.com/VerveineFishMarketRestaurant

The Smugglers Inn Annual Christmas Quiz & Dinner

The Smugglers Inn in Milford on Sea have Christmas Quiz & Dinner Night on Tuesday 19th December 2023.

The evening will included a 2 course Christmas Dinner and Quiz with great prizes to be won; cash, chocolate & wine. Plus, raffle on night.

Tickets: £24pp.

To book: 01590 644414

smugglersinn@ymail.com

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More Quizzes in village

Quiz Night at The Bridge

Wednesday 6th December 2023 at 7.30pm.

Quiz-Master Bob West. Teams of up to 6 with cash prize!

Come with friends or on your own – teams will be put together on the night!

Tickets: £4 from The Bridge Box Office.

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Beat the Family Quiz Evening at Milford on Sea Club

Friday 15th December 2023 - 7pm start. 

Bring your whole family & friends, or come on your own for a fun night.

Entry: £5 per family. Prizes and cash to be won.

Non Members Welcome. No need to book. Pay at the door.

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About The Smugglers Inn

This traditional family friendly seaside village pub serves tasty home-cooked meals all day. 

The comprehensive food menu includes daily specials, home cooked dishes, Sunday roasts and vegetarian & vegan options. The drink options include all pub favourites, as well as quality cask ales & local gins. 

 

There are log fires in winter, a conservatory, and a family & dog friendly large garden with a play area for the kids to enjoy. Children & dogs are welcome inside and out.

Live music, themed evenings, and quizzes are held on special occasions. Private parties are also catered for.

The Smugglers Inn

88 High Street, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QE

01590 644414

smugglersinn@ymail.com

www.thesmugglersinnpub.com

www.facebook.com/Smugglersinnmos

Look out for Christmas Follow the Star Pebbles

In the coming weeks, as you walk around the village you may come across some festive painted Follow the Star pebbles.

These are being left for people to find, take home and enjoy.

If you find one and are on Facebook please share its picture with the tag #followthestarallsaintsnativity2023.

You can also bring it with you to the Christmas Eve Nativity Service at All Saints' Church.

Christmas Eve Nativity Service

Sunday 24th December 2023: 3pm to 4pm at All Saints' Church.

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All Saints' Church & Church Hall
Greenbanks Close, Milford on Sea, SO41 0SQ
01590 644992
office.allsaintsmilford.org.uk
www.allsaintsmilford.org.uk
www.facebook.com/AllSaintsMilfordOnSea

The Gun Inn now open 7 days a week and lots happening

The historic Gun Inn in Keyhaven is now open 7 days a week from 11.30am Daily.

The pub has quickly gained a reputation for high quality food using seasonal produce. They also run a number of events on specific evenings. Take a look below to find out more.

Lunch & Dinner Set Menu

2 or 3 course Set Menu for lunch and dinner on Wednesday to Friday. £20 for 2 courses or £25 for 3 courses.

Please click here to see full Christmas Party Menu

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.

Regular Events at The Gun Inn

OPEN MIC & FOLK NIGHT at The Gun Inn

Every First and Third Thursday each month from 7.30pm.

Come along to an informal an evening of singing, playing or listening to singers and musicians. All types of music, from folk to whatever you fancy.

Everyone welcome to enjoy the music over a beer or meal. 

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QUIZ NIGHT at The Gun Inn

EVERY First Sunday of each month from 7pm.

Teams of up to 6 people. Bring a team or come and join up with new people on the night. (£2 entry fee per person).

Booking for the quiz is not essential as you can just come along and join in on the night, but booking a table is recommended if you are bringing a team.

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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 Inn; please click here.

The Gun Inn

Keyhaven Road, Keyhaven, SO41 0TP

01590 642391

landlord@theguninn.co.uk

www.facebook.com/theguninnkeyhaven

www.theguninn.co.uk

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