The Hidden Tap, a pub attached to Botley Brewery in Hampshire, has become a viral sensation for its unique service: lowering drinks by pulley to customers on paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes on the River Hamble. Pints, cider, and wine are priced at £5 each, with soft drinks at £2 and snacks at £1.20, making it a budget-friendly destination for waterside drinkers.
How the Pulley System Works
Located at Botley Mills along the River Hamble, the Hidden Tap operates a simple yet ingenious system. Customers ring a bell to alert the staff, who then lower a box on a rope containing their ordered drinks. Bartenders peer over the wall to pass pints directly to riders on the water. The pub serves four casks of Botley Brewery's own beer, up to seven ciders from various suppliers, and guest ales, alongside a range of alcohol-free options.
The Hidden Tap opened over seven years ago, adjacent to the Grade II Listed Botley Flour Mill from 1955. The brewery itself is owned by husband-and-wife team Rob and Meg Sanderson and has been running since 2012.
Customer Reactions and Tidal Considerations
Customers have praised the pub as 'genius', a 'fantastic idea', and a 'great service that does not disappoint'. However, visitors are advised to check high and low tide times before arriving. One unlucky punter reportedly had to wait for the water level to rise enough to reach the bucket.
The River Hamble runs through the villages of Bishop's Waltham, Botley, and Hamble, crossing about 6.3 miles before entering Southampton Water, offering scenic views along the way. The pub is open Tuesday to Thursday from 5-11pm, Friday to Saturday from 12-11pm, and 12-8pm on Sundays.
Nearby Attractions in Hampshire
For those making a day of it, the historic city of Winchester, the former capital of England, is nearby. It is home to a Cathedral and The Great Hall, the only surviving part of Winchester Castle and housing King Arthur's legendary Round Table. Fans of Jane Austen can tour her house, and outdoor enthusiasts can visit Calshot Activities Centre, one of the south's biggest outdoor centres, offering wall climbing, windsurfing, and sailing.
