Drink like a horse? Shropshire pub welcomes horses and riders

Fiona Hotchkiss, licensee of the pub said: “The way it has taken off is amazing and we love to see everyone using it.

She added: “We put it on our Facebook page on the Thursday night and within two days had 25,000 views.”

Designed for the four legged creatures, there are tie rings fixed onto the secured fencing, a plastic tub full of water and a mounting block to help riders get on and off.

History

The riverside pub began its family history when Roger Hotchkiss took charge in November 1980, with Fiona being born in the December.

Sadly, Roger passed away in July last year, but he had always owned horses and wanted to incorporate the pub with them.

Fiona took the reins and began a refurbishment on the pub to include her late father’s idea.

She said: “We spent the best part of £14,000 in total including the horsey additions for example just the tie rings cost us £45.

“Customers really like the fact that they can jump on, use the toilet or get a drink, get back on and be on their way quickly.”

Animals

The licensee lives on site at the pub and explained that quite a few riders stop and have a drink or use the facilities.

The Brewery already welcomed dogs, walkers and horse riders but since extending the purpose built area, is attracting more people

She said: “It is nice to do something for everybody and it is just something different.”