Some places have charm. Others have character. And then there’s The Ship Inn, which has both, plus a few centuries of stories tucked beneath its beams.

Ship Inn is on the outskirts of Ormskirk village, close to Southport. Right on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, this pub has a beer garden that’s practically begging you to stay a while.

There’s an outdoor bar, lush views across the water, and a real sense that you’ve stumbled into something special. Canal boats moor right outside like it’s the most natural thing in the world. Sometimes you’ll get a wave from someone passing through, and other times, you’ll be the one waving back with a pint in hand.

It is the perfect place to enjoy food served daily in this lovely destination pub. There is a great entertainment offering including a Quiz and darts. One highlight is the bandstand in the beer garden which in the summer months hosts bands at the weekend.