Canal Side Dining, Weddings & Events in Downholland

A historic countryside pub and events venue near Ormskirk, set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, serving food, drinks, Sunday roasts and unforgettable celebrations.

pro video video Canal

  • Beer garden

  • Food being served

  • Drinks poured

  • Live music

  • Wedding/private event setup

  • People enjoying the venue

More Than a Pub. A Place to Gather, Celebrate and Remember.

The Ship Inn is a historic canal side pub and restaurant in Downholland, near Ormskirk. With a welcoming countryside setting, food and drink served throughout the week, a spacious beer garden and flexible spaces for private celebrations, it is a place for relaxed meals, memorable events and special occasions by the water.

Whether you are joining us for a Sunday roast, meeting friends for drinks, planning a birthday party or looking for a relaxed wedding reception venue, The Ship Inn brings together warm hospitality, great food and a setting that feels genuinely special.

Food & Drink

Weddings & Events

The Beer Garden

Food, drinks and Sunday roasts by the canal
Enjoy pub favourites, seasonal dishes, drinks, cocktails and relaxed dining in a countryside setting

A relaxed waterside setting for unforgettable celebrations

From wedding receptions and birthdays to christenings, baby showers, wakes and private parties, The Ship Inn offers a warm and flexible space for special occasions.

Live music, beer garden days and canal side events
Join us for live entertainment, seasonal events, drinks in the beer garden and relaxed weekends by the water.

Weddings & Private Hire

Restaurant

Beer Garden

Whats on

Photo of kids play area

NYE

Christmas

Weddings, Receptions and Private Celebrations

Looking for a relaxed wedding reception or private event venue near Ormskirk?

The Ship Inn offers a scenic canal-side setting, flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, food and drink packages, a welcoming team and a countryside atmosphere that feels personal rather than formal.

Perfect for

Wedding receptions
Evening celebrations
Engagement parties
Birthdays
Christenings
Baby showers
Wakes and celebration of life gatherings
Corporate events
Christmas parties

Food, Drink and Sunday Roasts

From traditional pub favourites to seasonal specials, Sunday roasts, small plates and drinks in the beer garden, The Ship Inn is made for relaxed dining with family, friends and familiar faces.

Whether you are calling in after a canal walk, booking a table for Sunday lunch or meeting friends for drinks, you will find a warm welcome and a setting worth staying for.

The Canal Side Beer Garden

Set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, The Ship Inn offers a relaxed outdoor space for drinks, dining, live events and sunny afternoons by the water.

With canal views, outdoor seating, a welcoming atmosphere and space for families, dogs and walkers, the beer garden is one of the venue’s strongest features.

What’s On at The Ship Inn

From live music and quiz nights to seasonal events, beer garden days and special occasions, there is always a reason to visit The Ship Inn.

Follow our socials for the latest events at the Ship inn

What Our Guests Say

“We came for our son’s 22nd birthday. Wheelchair friendly, plenty of space, excellent service and excellent food with large portions.”

“Dogs are welcomed. Kid friendly and wheelchair friendly too. Clean, lovely scenery outside and friendly staff.”

“We were greeted by such friendly staff. The interior and atmosphere were spot on.”

“What a gem of a place. The menu was ideal for all ages from 12 to 79.”

“The location is so nice, the food was spot on, and the staff made it a wonderful experience.”

The Ship Inn has been featured in local press, including Southport Visiter, highlighting the pub’s food, character and canal side setting.

RESERVE A SEAT

Pull Up a Chair

Whether you are booking a table, planning a private event or looking for somewhere special by the canal, The Ship Inn is ready to welcome you.