Explore the Hamble
Paddle to the Jolly Sailor: the Hamble's most famous pub stop
If there's one riverside pub everyone on the Hamble knows, it's the Jolly Sailor. It sits on the Bursledon bank directly across the river from our base at Swanwick Marina, which makes it the easiest pub paddle on the river and a great first destination.
A bit of history
The building dates from the 18th century, started life as a vicarage and has been a pub since 1845. It's Grade II listed, decorated inside with ship's lanterns and figureheads, and fans of 1980s TV will know it as the local in the BBC drama Howards' Way, which was filmed on this stretch of the river.
Getting there from Swanwick
It's a short crossing, but you're crossing a busy river, so plan it properly.
- Cross, don't drift. Look both ways for boat traffic, then cross the channel briskly and at right angles rather than meandering across it.
- Use the pontoon. The pub has a pontoon that paddlers can use. Come alongside slowly, step off carefully, and make sure your board or kayak is secure and out of the way of other users.
- Watch the tide. The current runs past the pontoon. Approach heading into the flow so you can control your speed.
At your briefing we'll tell you the best time to cross on the day and how the tide will affect your return.
How long to book
The paddle itself is short, but give yourself time to land, have a drink and get back without rushing. A two-hour hire works well for most people, and it leaves time to explore upriver too. If you're not sure, ask when you book.
Be back on time
A pub stop is the easiest way to lose track of time. Please return your kit at the end of your booked session. If you're running late, call us on 01489 536151 straight away: an overdue paddler we can't reach is a safety concern, and late returns are charged. See our FAQs for details.
A word on drinks
You still have to paddle back, and alcohol and water don't mix well. Keep it moderate, or have a soft drink on the way and save the pint for when you're back on dry land. Take a card or phone payment in a waterproof pouch.
Prefer someone to lead the way?
Our Paddle & Pub trip is a two-and-a-half-hour instructor-led paddle up the Hamble by paddleboard or kayak, with a 30-minute stop at the Jolly Sailor on the way back. It's a brilliant way to see more of the river without having to plan it yourself. Find it on our lessons and guided trips page.
Want to go further? Read our guide to where to paddle on the Hamble, or our routes and tides guide.