The Ship Inn

+44 1388 810904

Low Rd, Middlestone, Bishop Auckland DL14 8AB United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Open Today: -

Quick Facts About The Ship Inn

The Ship Inn has received a mix of positive and negative comments, which provide insight into its strengths and weaknesses.

Strengths:

1. Portion Size and Taste: Multiple reviewers praised the portion size and taste of the food, describing it as filling, home-cooked, and fantastic. This indicates that The Ship Inn serves generous portions of delicious food, which is a strength and likely to attract customers looking for a satisfying meal.

2. Value for Money: Reviewers highlighted that the food at The Ship Inn is reasonably priced, suggesting that customers receive good value for money. This is an important strength, as affordability can be a determining factor for some customers when choosing a dining establishment.

3. Hospitality and Atmosphere: Many reviewers commend the hospitality and friendliness of the staff at The Ship Inn. It is mentioned that both the landlord and landlady make customers feel welcome, and the cozy atmosphere, including an open fire, is praised. Positive comments about the ambiance of a place are crucial in attracting and retaining customers.

4. Proximity to Locals: Some reviewers appreciate the fact that The Ship Inn is located only five minutes away from their homes. This indicates that the pub has a strong connection with the local community and may enjoy regular patronage from nearby residents. It is a strength for any business to have a loyal customer base in close proximity.

5. Beer and Lager: One reviewer specifically mentions liking the beer and lager at The Ship Inn, characterizing them as strong. This suggests that the pub offers a good selection of beverages and may attract customers who enjoy a well-stocked bar.

Weaknesses:

1. Involvement with Fox Hunting: Several negative reviews highlight the fact that The Ship Inn hosts fox hunts, and this is a significant weakness for the establishment. One reviewer mentions the dogs defecating on the green, which negatively impacts the pub's cleanliness and the overall experience of patrons. Another reviewer points out that the noise and vile language associated with the hunt make their elderly relative afraid to go out. This criticism highlights the negative impact that hosting fox hunts can have on both the physical environment and the pub's reputation.

2. Lack of Welcome and Rudeness: One negative review alleges that the staff inside the pub were unwelcoming, cold, and rude, particularly toward an elderly person with dementia. This behavior represents a significant weakness, as it tarnishes the reputation of the establishment and may deter potential customers. The negative comments imply a lack of empathy and compassion from the staff, which is unacceptable in a customer-facing industry.

3. Damage and Animal Disturbance: A reviewer claims that the hunt causes damage to private property and terrorizes wildlife, implying a lack of consideration for the surrounding area. This criticism reflects poorly on The Ship Inn's responsibility and commitment to maintaining the local environment. The presence of the hunt and the resulting damage can deter potential customers who value a well-preserved and peaceful surroundings.

In conclusion, The Ship Inn has notable strengths such as generous portion sizes, delicious food at reasonable prices, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere. However, the pub also faces several significant weaknesses related to its involvement with fox hunting, including associated cleanliness issues, disturbance to local residents, rudeness towards customers, and damage to property and wildlife. These weaknesses can impact its reputation and potentially discourage potential customers from visiting.

Best TL Reviews

First time for food here, and wasn't disappointed the portion size was great , the taste was fantastic. Its nothing fancy but for a good filling home cooked meal this is the place to come. I definitely will be coming back.

Absolutely blown away by this local find, fabulous hospitality, delicious home cooked food and so reasonably priced . Such a lovely feel to the place with open fire and inly 5 mins from where we live. We will definitely be returning.

Like this place beer and lager very strong , friendly staff nice and cozy, will be back .

Would give no stars if I could. They host the hunt and the dogs do their business all over the green. My gran has dementia and is terrified to even go out now due to the noise . The horrible language from the people the hunt bring is disgusting! Also inside the pub, they aren't welcoming, cold and rude to my gran who has lived in the area all of her life and its clear my gran is poorly and yet the vile comments directed to her from the people in there. Breaks my heart. And having the hint come and rip up the lawns and dog mess everywhere, terrorising the wildlife, running through private land and gardens. Disgusting. Don't go here, they don't care about the elderly residents of the area or the upkeep of the area. They won't even pay for the damage the hunt have caused that they host!!!

Visited previously, wouldn’t be my first choice but was ok. Was due to meet a friend there again but discovered gang of fox hunters using this pub as a meeting place. Very shocked and disappointed. Won’t be visiting again until this is stopped ????????

Fabulous hospitality, the landlord and landlady made us so welcome. Warm fire and great food, we will be back soon!

Please note the recent reviews from Heather, Teri and Shannon are fake and malicious. They have all been reported to Google. All are part of the anti fox hunt league that attack country pubs if certain country group’s frequent. Very sad people.

Brilliant- and friendly pub. Food and beer were very good and reasonably priced.